From Rural Ethiopia to Global Impact: Kedrala Wabela Hussen’s NELGA-DAAD Journey

“Studying with NELGA-DAAD wasn’t just about education—it was about connecting, learning, and making a real impact back home.” – Kedrala Wabela Hussen

Hailing from Dalocha, a district in southern Ethiopia, Kedrala’s early education in a rural setting laid the foundation for his passion for agriculture. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Hawassa University College of Agriculture in 2011 and began his career as a junior researcher in irrigation agriculture at the Southern Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute (SARI). His quest for deeper knowledge led him to achieve a Master’s degree in irrigation and drainage engineering in 2017.

Kedrala Wabela Hussen’s academic and professional journey embodies the impact of NELGA’s support. A proud 2021 NELGA-DAAD scholarship recipient, Kedrala pursued his PhD in Water Resource Management at the Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine (IAV) in Morocco, culminating in a degree on July 22, 2024.

Kedrala’s desire for advanced learning was fulfilled through the NELGA-DAAD scholarship, which opened doors to world-class education and international exposure. During his studies in Morocco, he gained invaluable skills in research data analysis, scientific publication, and climate change adaptation actions. His journey took him to notable forums such as the International Young African Water Professional’s Forum in Marrakech and the International Conference on Water Resources Management and Sustainability in Dubai. These experiences allowed him to exchange knowledge on irrigation practices and bring fresh insights back to Ethiopia.

His research led to the publication of three influential papers focusing on small-scale irrigation schemes, significantly advancing practices in irrigation water management. Kedrala’s work, which explores effective irrigation practices and modelling, aims to ensure sustainable agricultural production and enhance water productivity.

Kedrala’s success story highlights how NELGA’s support through the DAAD scholarship has empowered individuals to make significant contributions to land and water management in Africa. His journey not only underscores the value of international academic collaboration but also illustrates NELGA’s role in fostering expertise that drives sustainable development across the continent.