This call forms part of the NDICI AFRICA/2023/447‑700 programme, which aims to strengthen science–policy interfaces, promote evidence-based advocacy, and advance the integration of agroecology into national and regional agricultural strategies across Africa. Selected projects will contribute directly to improving food system resilience, biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and policy engagement.

Grant Focus Areas

Proposals should address one or more of the following:

• Agroecological principles: biodiversity, soil health, recycling, synergies, resilience, and co‑creation of knowledge
• Policy advocacy for recognition of agroecology in national systems
• Agroecology’s role in food and nutrition security
• Gender-responsive and socially inclusive agroecological approaches

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be members of the RMRN/RCoE Consortium, PANAP, or RUFORUM networks
• Be based in Africa through citizenship or institutional affiliation
• Demonstrate capacity to conduct applied or community‑based research and comply with ethical standards

Grant Amount

Up to EUR 5,000 per proposal. A maximum of 10 proposals will be selected.

How to Apply

Submit the following through the RUFORUM Information Management System (RIMS):

• Technical Proposal
• Detailed Budget
• Work Plan
• CV(s) of key researchers
• Proof of network affiliation

 Submission Portal: https://rims2.ruforum.org/         Application Deadline: 30 March 2026

Download Full Call Details

For further information: Please contact: cgs@ruforum.org

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From 8–13 September 2025, the Regional Multi-Actor Research Network (RMRN) Project, funded by the European Commission with technical support from the Joint Research Centre (JRC), organised a four-day hybrid (online and onsite) Agroecology co-learning workshop.  The workshop, co-organised in collaboration with other projects of the Transformative Partnership Platform on Agroecology (AE-TPP), brought together researchers, partners, and stakeholders from across Africa to strengthen capacity in agroecological transitions, research and innovation. Throughout the workshop, there was an emphasis on holistic agroecology assessments facilitated through the TRANSITIONS METRICS Project, made possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union and coordination of IFAD.

Participants engaged in sessions on the principles and approaches of agroecology as well as exposure to tools for assessing agroecology transitions. The training also covered systems thinking, participatory research methodologies, and science-policy linkages, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to design and implement innovations that can contribute to transforming Africa’s food systems.

A major highlight was a field visit to the Drylands Natural Resource Center (DNRC) at Kalimani in Nairobi, where participants observed firsthand, how agroecological principles are transforming dryland farming systems. The visit showcased community-led agroforestry, soil regeneration, and sustainable livelihoods, offering practical lessons on restoring degraded landscapes and improving food security and resilience.

Participants at the DNRC during the field visit

Founded and led by Kenyan national Nicholas M. Syano, DNRC is a locally registered NGO working with more than 1,000 smallholder farmers to promote sustainable dryland resource management and agroecological farming practices. Reflecting on the visit, Mr. Syano said: “We are honoured to host the RMRN team at DNRC. ” Their insights and suggestions are valuable in helping us improve our work and expand opportunities for research collaboration. This kind of engagement is vital for advancing agroecology principles and scaling sustainable solutions across dryland regions.”

Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, Deputy Executive Secretary for Planning, Resources, Mobilisation and Management at RUFORUM, emphasized the importance of blending theory with practice: “This training has been an important step in building capacity for agroecological transitions. The blend of theoretical concepts with the practical field visit to DNRC allowed participants to see agroecology in action, moving beyond abstract principles to real solutions that work for communities. This approach is vital for strengthening advocacy and driving agroecology transitions at scale across the continent. RUFORUM remains committed to working with partners to ensure that these lessons translate into stronger policies, investments, and partnerships for sustainable food systems.”

Dr. Kwaku Antwi, Coordinator of the RMRN Project at FARA, underscored the networks’ commitment to advancing agroecology: “The RMRNs are fully committed to advancing agroecological transitions across Africa. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, we aim to ensure that agroecology contributes to food systems transformation. This training has shown us what is possible when science, practice, and policy come together, and we will continue working with partners to scale these efforts for the benefit of farmers and communities.”

The workshop also fostered peer learning and collaboration among participants; laying the groundwork for stronger partnerships and policy advocacy towards advancing agroecology across the continent.

By: Daniel Obloni Kweitsu, Communications Expert, FARA

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CAADP’s Legacy: A Continental Framework for Evidence-Driven Growth

At the heart of this effort is the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP), a flagship African Union initiative designed to achieve agricultural growth and food security by promoting evidence-driven strategies. For over two decades, CAADP has championed investments in research and innovation, and achieving its ambitious goals requires equipping African scientists with the tools to generate actionable insights and ensure that agricultural policies are informed by data, not assumptions. This is where initiatives like the Strengthening Evidence-Based Policy Practice for Sustainable Food Systems (StEPPFoS) project become important. Funded by the European Union StEPPFoS (coordinated by FARA), aims to bridge the gap between policy and practice in a way that addresses Africa’s unique agricultural and nutritional challenges.

Through partnerships with the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, and 16 partner organisations and the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), StEPPFoS is working to strengthen the technical capacities of Africa’s researchers in policy analysis and provision of technical support to decision making in the agricultural sector of Africa, particularly those in the Pan-African Network for Economic Analysis of Policies (PANAP) Network. PANAP serves as a hub for African researchers to analyse the socio-economic impacts of agricultural and food system policies, providing policymakers with evidence that can guide investments and reforms.

DEMETRA Training: Equipping Researchers with Advanced Modelling Tools

A striking example of this commitment to capacity building is the 2025 DEMETRA Modelling Training Workshop, held in Kigali, Rwanda, in June 2025. Twenty-three agri-food researchers from across the continent gathered to deepen their understanding of the Dynamic Equilibrium Model for Economic Development, Resources, and Agriculture (DEMETRA), a cutting-edge tool developed by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. DEMETRA is designed to simulate the ripple effects of policy decisions or shocks, such as changes in trade policies or climate events, on national economies, food systems, and livelihoods. What made this training stand out was its practicality. Participants worked in small groups to apply the DEMETRA Computable General Equilibrium model to real-world policy scenarios. This hands-on approach moved beyond theory, empowering participants to see how their analyses could influence actual policy decisions. The workshop not only improved their modelling skills but also fostered a community of practice where African researchers can collaborate and exchange ideas to drive food systems transformation.

Investments in initiatives like StEPPFoS and networks like PANAP demonstrate a shift toward empowering African expertise. For too long, the continent has relied heavily on external analyses to inform agricultural policy, but the future depends on building homegrown capacity to generate relevant, context-specific insights. By training African researchers to master advanced modelling tools like DEMETRA, these initiatives are laying the foundation for evidence-based policymaking that reflects Africa’s realities.

Toward a Food-Secure Africa: Strengthening the Research-Policy Interface

As countries work toward achieving Kampala CAADP’s vision of a food-secure and prosperous Africa, strengthening the research-policy interface is critical. This means expanding and strengthening platforms like PANAP, sustaining long-term investments in agricultural research, and fostering closer collaboration between scientists and decision-makers. Africa’s transformation will not be driven solely by political will or financial investment; it will require robust evidence to guide every step.

Op-Ed By:  Dr. Kwaku Antwi, Cluster lead, Research Policy and Investments, FARA and Daniel Obloni Kweitsu, Communications Expert, FARA

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We have identified an individual by the name Nwedu Abraham who is fraudulently presenting himself as a staff member of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) across LinkedIn and other social media platforms. He falsely claims to hold the position of Sales Attendant at FARA.

We wish to firmly state that Nwedu Abraham is NOT a staff member of FARA, nor has he ever been employed by or affiliated with our organisation in any capacity.

He is suspected to be fronting as a FARA representative/staff, potentially to perpetrate fraud or mislead unsuspecting individuals and institutions. We strongly urge the public to be on high alert, and to avoid engaging or connecting with him.

Anyone who interacts with this individual, believing he represents FARA does so entirely at their own risk. He is NOT a FARA Staff.

To verify identities or report suspicious activity, please contact us directly:
Telephone:  +233 0302 744888
Email: info@faraafrica.org

At FARA, we remain committed to promoting agricultural research and development across Africa through the genuine efforts of our dedicated team and partners. Thank you for helping us uphold the credibility of our mission.

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A Five-Year Journey of Impact

Presenting his address at the general assembly, Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA, reflected on PANAP’s evolution since its launch in 2019, emphasizing its dual achievements in policy analysis and institutional development. “PANAP has performed the role it was designed to play, carrying out policy analysis and strengthening capacities,” he said. “It has become a platform for engagement between scientists and policymakers.” He also urged the assembly to reflect on PANAP’s unique position among a growing number of policy networks. “We must mark out the niche of PANAP so that it does not appear to be overlapping with other networks, but rather adding value,” he emphasized.

Bridging Continents Through Science and Strategy

Alessandra Zampieri, Director of Sustainable Resources at the European Commission’s JRC, praised PANAP’s role in fostering cross-continental collaboration. “The efforts of this network have yielded significant benefits to enhance food and nutrition security and to advance sustainable agriculture, both in Africa and Europe,” she said. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of aligning agricultural strategies across both continents, referencing the Kampala Declaration and the EU Vision for Agriculture and Food. “These strategies offer a timely opportunity to strengthen collaboration and support the design of evidence-based policies,” she noted. She also highlighted PANAP’s alignment with global initiatives: “PANAP is already fully aligned to the main policy initiatives in both continents, reiterating the commitment to evidence-based policymaking, and also aligning with the Global Gateway initiative, strengthening education and research systems across the world.”She concluded by celebrating PANAP’s strengthened governance: “With a stronger secretariat and a well-functioning steering committee, PANAP is well-positioned to expand both in content and geographical representation.”

A Continental Vision Rooted in African Realities

Representing the African Union Commission, Beatrice Egulu delivered a powerful call to action. “We reconvene not only to continue this dialogue, but to act on it,” she said, referencing the post-Malabo agenda and the evolving AU-EU partnership in food systems transformation. She further outlined three strategic priorities: operationalizing the Kampala Strategy and Action Plan (2026–2035), strengthening African capacities to generate and apply evidence in real-time, and advancing joint foresight mechanisms to address climate risks and digital innovation. “We must use this moment to position African policy institutions at the center of solution-building,” she urged. She also welcomed the network’s focus on youth and gender-responsive innovation: “The next generation of African agripreneurs and scientists must be active co-creators in policy design and implementation.”

Key Milestones and Forward Momentum

A major highlight of the General Assembly was the launch of PANAP’s Operational and Membership Charter, alongside the formal establishment of the network’s Steering Committee; a move expected to enhance coordination and accountability across the continent. Additionally, agri-food research scientists undergoing the CGE mentorship programme presented their policy analysis proposals, showcasing the next generation of evidence-based thinkers in agricultural policy. As the assembly concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment to PANAP’s vision: a future where agricultural policy in Africa and Europe is driven by rigorous analysis, inclusive dialogue, and shared innovation. With a strengthened governance structure and renewed strategic focus, PANAP is poised to play an even more influential role in shaping the agricultural landscapes of both continents.

Article and Photos By: Daniel Obloni Kweitsu, Communications Expert, FARA

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The meeting focused on strengthening FARA’s engagement with MESTI and the Government of Ghana in driving transformative research and science-based solutions for Africa’s agricultural development. Both parties expressed a shared commitment to building partnerships that support the continent’s goals for food security, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.

As the technical arm of the African Union Commission on agricultural science, technology, and innovation, FARA leads continental efforts to advance research and knowledge-sharing that empower smallholder farmers and strengthen agri-food systems. Collaborating with national institutions like MESTI aligns with FARA’s mandate to facilitate science-policy linkages, build capacity, and promote innovation across Africa’s agricultural landscape.

Dr. Agumya noted that Ghana’s strategic role in regional science and innovation makes it an essential partner in achieving FARA’s objectives. He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to scale up homegrown technologies, strengthen research-extension systems, and invest in youth-led innovations that can transform African agriculture for generations to come.

Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed welcomed the engagement and reaffirmed MESTI’s readiness to work with FARA and other stakeholders to advance science, technology, and innovation as drivers of socioeconomic development. He emphasized that strong partnerships are vital to unlocking Africa’s full potential and delivering sustainable solutions to pressing development challenges.

FARA looks forward to deepening collaboration with MESTI and contributing to Ghana’s leadership in driving science-led agricultural transformation on the continent.

By: Daniel Obloni Kweitsu, Communications Expert, FARA

Photo Credit: Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology and Innovation (MESTI)

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Accra, Ghana – The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) has officially become a member of the AU-EU International Research Consortium (IRC) on Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FNSSA). The consortium, launched at the inaugural General Assembly in Brussels on March 14, 2025, aims to strengthen collaboration between Africa and Europe to address challenges in food security and sustainable agriculture through research and innovation.

Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA, expressed optimism about the consortium’s potential to drive impactful research outcomes. As the apex organization coordinating agricultural research for development in Africa, FARA’s inclusion in the IRC not only strengthens Africa’s representation but also leverages expertise across the continent to develop impactful solutions for food and nutrition security, and sustainable agriculture.

FARA joins 23 agricultural institutions from Europe and Africa, including organizations such as CGIAR, CIRAD, African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS) and the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF), as full members of the consortium.

Group photo of members of the IRC on FNSSA at the First General Assembly

Advancing Food Security through Joint Initiatives

The maiden IRC General Assembly brought together stakeholders from Africa and Europe to establish the IRC’s governance and operational structures. The event also featured updates on progress made since the initiation of the CEA-FIRST project, which is laying the foundation for the consortium’s strategic framework.

The International Research Consortium (IRC) is a long-term platform on Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FNSSA) in line with the FNSSA Roadmap of the AU-EU High-Level Policy Dialogue (HLPD). The IRC is a member-based, multi-actor platform working towards increasing synergies and coherence while reducing fragmentation and duplication of research efforts. It aims to promote higher returns on investments and impact on business development in Africa and Europe, by linking actors, research and innovation projects, initiatives, and funding programmes.

With strong representation and participation of African agricultural institutions like FARA, AFAAS, and CORAF, the consortium is well-positioned to contribute to practical, evidence-based solutions that enhance food, nutrition security and sustainable agriculture across Africa and Europe.

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