Strengths for the Award:

1. Extensive Research Contributions: Daniso Beswa has a robust portfolio of research in food science, particularly focusing on food security, indigenous food sources, and functional ingredients. His work on provitamin A-biofortified maize and the use of lesser-known local food sources highlights his commitment to addressing critical nutritional issues and advancing food science.
2. High-Quality Publications: Beswa has a substantial number of peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, showcasing his research impact. His publications in respected journals such as Foods (Basel), Molecules, and the International Journal of Food Science reflect the quality and relevance of his work.
3. Supervision and Mentoring: He has successfully supervised numerous postgraduate students, including PhD and MSc candidates. This demonstrates his role in fostering the next generation of researchers and his ability to guide and mentor emerging scientists.
4. Community Engagement: Beswa’s involvement in community projects, such as the Gwakwani Extended Projects and teaching at local schools, indicates his commitment to applying his research in practical, community-centered contexts.
5. Professional Development and Teaching: His ongoing professional development and extensive teaching experience in food science and technology further support his expertise and contribution to the field.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Broader Impact and Outreach: While Beswa’s research is focused and impactful, increasing outreach efforts and translating his findings into policy recommendations or broader public awareness could enhance the societal impact of his work.
2. Grant Funding and Collaborations: Securing more substantial research grants and fostering international collaborations could elevate the scope and scale of his research projects, leading to potentially groundbreaking advancements in food technology and security.
3. Diversification of Research Topics: Expanding research into new and emerging areas of food science, such as sustainable food systems or innovative food processing technologies, could further enhance his research profile.

Conclusion:

Daniso Beswa is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive contributions to food science and technology, significant research output, successful supervision of postgraduate students, and community engagement underscore his exceptional qualifications. Addressing areas for improvement, such as expanding outreach and securing more research funding, could further enhance his already impressive impact in the field.