Mr. Mawunu Monizi | Biomolecules | Medicinal Chemistry Breakthrough Award
Universidade Kimpa Vita, Angola
Author Profile
Educational & Academic Qualifications
Mr. Monizi Mawunu has built a strong academic foundation in the life sciences. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biology, specializing in Molecular & Cellular Biology (2023–present) at the University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. He previously earned a Master’s degree (Advanced Studies Diploma) in the same specialization from the same institution (2018–2020). Broadening his expertise internationally, he completed a Specialized Master’s degree in Innovations & Policies for Sustainable Food (2012–2013) at Montpellier SupAgro, France. His earlier academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences with a major in Biotechnology (2001–2004), preceded by a Bachelor’s in General Biological Sciences (1995–2000), both from the University of Kinshasa. His foundational education includes a state diploma in biological and chemical sciences (1986–1992) from Instituto Lengo‑Nduizi, Zaire, and primary schooling at Escola Primária Kiwembo‑Lombe, Baixo‑Zaire (1980–1986).
Research Areas & Interests
Mr. Mawunu’s research expertise lies at the intersection of Biodiversity, Food and Medicinal Phytochemistry, and Ethnobiology. His investigations extend into Food Security, Lifestyles, Organic Agriculture, and Traditional Knowledge Systems, addressing critical sustainable development challenges through a multidisciplinary lens. His work emphasizes the preservation and scientific validation of traditional resources in Angola and Central Africa.
Professional Experience
Mr. Mawunu has over two decades of academic and scientific experience. Since September 2022, he has been serving as Scientific Advisor at the University of Kimpa Vita, Uíge, Angola. From June to September 2022, he held the role of Director of Scientific Research, Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Postgraduate Studies at the same university. He has been an active member of the Senate (2016–2022) and continues to serve on the Scientific Council since 2016. From April 2010 to present, he is a Full-time Assistant Professor teaching General Botany, Systematic Botany, Statistics, and Biostatistics at the Polytechnic School in Uíge. His earlier academic appointments include Chair of the Agronomy Department (2011), Part-time Lecturer in Cytology and Statistics (2008–2011), and Teacher of Biology and Chemistry at Roi Beaudouin I Complex School in Kinshasa (2005–2006). His broad teaching portfolio and leadership positions highlight his commitment to higher education and scientific advancement.
Notable Publications
Development of drug release systems based on microfibrillated cellulose and alginate for the duodenum (pH 6.6)
Authors: José Pedro Maielano Benjamim, Nelson Mariti Henrique, Mawunu Monizi, Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua
Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health
Year: 2025
Phytochemical Screening and Biological Activities of Lippia multiflora Moldenke
Authors: Dorcas Tlhapi, Ntsoaki Malebo, Idah Tichaidza Manduna, Monizi Mawunu, Ramakwala Christinah Chokwe
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2025
Medicinal plants traditionally used by the rural Kimalalu people in the municipality of Songo (Uíge province), Northern Angola
Authors: Monizi Mawunu, Afonso David Malungo, Lukebano Cuca Afonso, Lukoki Luyeye, Luyindula Ndiku, Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua
Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health
Year: 2024
A Review of Medicinal Plants Used in the Management of Microbial Infections in Angola
Authors: Dorcas Tlhapi, Ntsoaki Malebo, Idah Tichaidza Manduna, Thea Lautenschläger, Monizi Mawunu
Journal: Plants
Year: 2024
Integrating Ethnobotany and Artificial Intelligence to validate the potential bioactivity of two medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of influenza in IBI-Village and surrounding areas, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Menga Mukolo Pisco, Gerengbo Koto Georges, Mawunu Monizi, Masengo Ashande Colette, Tshimankinda Mpiana Pius, Mudogo Virima, Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua
Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health
Year: 2024
Ethnobotanical uses of wild edible plants of Mucaba municipality, Angola
Authors: Monizi Mawunu, Mazekanua H. G. Panzo, António Telo, Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua, Lukoki Luyeye, Luyindula Ndiku, Thea Lautenschläger
Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health
Year: 2022