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About ACSS

Promoting the study of crops in all its facets

The Beginning of the ACSS

Before 1993 there was a strong need among scientists to establish a crop society and to hold a conference every second year.   The main objective was to promote crop production and reduce hunger in Africa.   At the same time scientists from different countries can share their knowledge throughout Africa.

The first conference was in Uganda in 1993 and that was the beginning of the African Crop Science Society.  The next conference was hosted by Malawi in 1995 and the constitution was formulated.   At this time the journal was established at the Makerere University in Uganda.

Prof. Adipala Ekwamu played a key role in the establishment of the ACSS and the journal.   The Rockefeller Foundation made a substantial financial contribution in the early days of the society and journal.

Since that humble beginning in 1993 to date, the scientific value of papers and posters increased significantly.  The interaction between scientists of different countries is still growing to the benefit of Africa.    South Africa played a vital role to keep the society on track, because there were periods that the society went through difficult times.

Presidents of the ACSS Society

 2011-Present
Dr. Luisa Santos
2009-2011
Dr. G.D. Joubert
2007-2009
Prof. Zaki Ahmed Kasem
2005-2007
Prof. Mateete Bekunda
2003-2005
Prof. A.W. Mwang`combe
2001-2003
Prof. T.O. Tayo
1997-2001
Dr. G.D. Joubert
1993-1997
Prof. Adipala Ekwamu
General objectives of the society are as highlighted below

Objectives

The general objectives of the Society are to foster and promote the study of crops in all its facets.  This it shall do by:

  • Creating opportunities for the free exchange of ideas on Crop Science and related fields in Africa;
  • fostering liaison between the Society and other bodies with common or similar interests both in Africa and abroad;
  • obtaining and disseminating knowledge, information and ideas pertaining to crops by means of deliberations and publications;
  • promoting the work and interests of members of the profession and promoting contact among the national and regional Crop Science Societies in Africa;
  • encouraging scientific training in Crop Science;
  • promoting a general awareness of the environment and utilizing, protecting and conserving the environment through sustainable crop production and development of agriculture in Africa;
  • fulfilling any other function that may be in the interests of Crop Science.