Professor Thomas Risley Odhiambo

Professor Thomas Risley Odhiambo (1931-2003) was a distinguished Kenyan entomologist and environmental activist who made significant contributions to scientific research and education in Africa. Here’s an overview of his life, achievements, and contributions:

Early Life and Education

• Education: Thomas Risley Odhiambo was educated at Maseno School in Kenya, Makerere University in Uganda, and Queens’ College, Cambridge in the United Kingdom.
• Doctorate: He completed his PhD at Cambridge University under the supervision of Vincent Wigglesworth, a renowned expert in insect physiology. His thesis on the reproductive physiology of the desert locust led to a series of influential papers.

Contributions and Achievements

• Founding icipe: Upon returning to Kenya, Odhiambo became a lecturer at the University of Nairobi. He recognized the need for focused research in Africa to address agricultural challenges and tropical diseases sustainably.
• Vision for Research in Africa: Odhiambo advocated for concentrating scientific efforts in a few centers of excellence. He proposed the establishment of the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) to serve as a hub for insect research, training African scientists, and collaborating globally.
• Establishment of icipe: With support from global academies and scientists like Carl Djerassi, icipe was founded in 1970. It started with modest facilities but grew into a premier research institution in Africa, focusing on insect-related issues affecting human, animal, plant, and environmental health.
• Scientific Excellence: Odhiambo’s vision of icipe was to attract the best scientific minds and provide them with state-of-the-art facilities to conduct groundbreaking research. Today, icipe continues to lead in its field with a diverse team of over 400 staff and collaborations worldwide.

Honors and Recognition

• Awards: Odhiambo received numerous accolades, including the Africa Prize for Leadership jointly with President Abdou Diouf of Senegal in 1987, the Albert Einstein Medal, and the Gold Mercury International Award.
• Honorary Degrees: He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of Oslo and was elected as a founding fellow of the African Academy of Sciences.

Legacy

• Impact: Professor Thomas Risley Odhiambo’s legacy extends beyond scientific achievements. His efforts in establishing icipe and promoting indigenous knowledge systems have had a profound impact on agricultural development and environmental sustainability in Africa.
• Inspiration: He inspired a generation of African scientists and leaders, emphasizing the importance of integrating scientific research with the improvement of livelihoods, particularly for smallholder farmers.

Conclusion

Thomas Risley Odhiambo’s life and work exemplify his commitment to scientific excellence, environmental stewardship, and capacity building in Africa. His visionary leadership at icipe continues to shape research and policy in insect science, contributing to sustainable development across the continent.