The KM4AgD Community of Practice (CoP) officially kicked off its 2026 webinar series with a highly engaging virtual session focused on strengthening the link between Knowledge Management (KM) and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) for evidence-driven agricultural development. The webinar, held on 29 January 2026, brought together KM practitioners, M&E specialists, researchers, policymakers, and development partners from across Africa and beyond.

Organised under the Bi-Monthly KM4AgD Community of Practice Webinar Series, the session was held under the theme: “Making Knowledge Work: Mapping KM–MEL Pathways for Evidence-Driven Agricultural Development.” The event forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen learning, accountability, and results orientation across agricultural research and development (AR4D) systems.

Setting the Context: Why KM–MEL Integration Matters

Benjamin Abugri, KMDL Cluster Lead at FARA

Opening the session, Benjamin Abugri, Knowledge Management, Digitalization & Learning (KMDL) Cluster Lead at Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), underscored the growing demand for robust KM systems that go beyond knowledge production to demonstrate real development results. He highlighted that while many institutions invest heavily in KM platforms, communities of practice, and knowledge products, the pathways through which these efforts translate into outcomes and impact remain insufficiently articulated or measured.

This challenge, he noted, has become particularly relevant within large multi-partner initiatives such as the CAADP-XP4 Programme, where evidence-based reporting, learning, and adaptive management are central to programme success.

Expert Insights: From Knowledge Outputs to Measurable Impact

The core presentation was delivered by Anselme Vodounhessi, Lead Specialist for Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning and CAAPs Programme Coordinator at FARA. Drawing on over 18 years of experience across Sub-Saharan Africa, Anselme provided practical insights into how KM interventions can be systematically linked to results frameworks.

His presentation unpacked the concept of integrated KM–MEL value chains, illustrating how KM activities, such as knowledge creation, access, adoption, and use, can be mapped across inputs, outputs, outcomes, and impacts. Using real programme examples, including experiences from the CAADP-XP4 consortium, he demonstrated how institutions can move beyond counting knowledge products to measuring uptake, behavioural change, policy influence, and improvements in institutional performance.

A key takeaway was the importance of “mastering the black box” between outputs and outcomes, ensuring that assumptions, end-user positioning, and contextual factors are explicitly considered in KM results planning and reporting.

Practical Tools and Application

Participants were introduced to practical KM–MEL tools, including examples of results matrices, indicators, milestones, and dashboards used to track KM contributions to development outcomes. The session highlighted how every stage of the MEL process can serve as an entry point for KM, reinforcing the idea that KM is not a standalone function but an integral component of programme design, implementation, and learning.

These tools resonated strongly with participants working in donor-funded programmes, regional organisations, and national agricultural systems seeking to strengthen evidence generation, accountability, and learning loops.

Interactive Dialogue and Shared Learning

The presentation was followed by a lively moderated discussion led by Upile Faith Muhariwa (CCARDESA) and Mabel Lum Shu (WACSI), both Certified KM Practitioners. Participants shared reflections from their own institutional contexts, raised practical questions on indicator design and attribution, and discussed common challenges in demonstrating KM impact.

The discussion reinforced the value of the KM4AgD Community of Practice as a peer-learning space, enabling practitioners to exchange experiences, align approaches, and collaboratively refine KM practice across institutions and regions.

Looking Ahead

In closing, the session reaffirmed the KM4AgD CoP’s commitment to supporting practitioners with practical, experience-based learning that strengthens the contribution of KM to agricultural transformation. The webinar marked a strong start to the 2026 series, setting the tone for future sessions focused on knowledge co-creation, digital platforms, communities of practice, and evidence use for policy and investment decisions.

As the KM4AgD Community continues to grow, participants were encouraged to actively engage in upcoming webinars, contribute case studies, and apply integrated KM–MEL approaches within their organisations to ensure that knowledge truly works for development.

Upcoming KM4AgD Community of Practice Webinars in 2026

Building on the momentum of this first 2026 session, the KM4AgD Community of Practice will continue to convene bi-monthly interactive webinars throughout the year. The upcoming sessions are scheduled for 26 March, 28 May, 30 July, 24 September, and 26 November 2026. These webinars will provide ongoing opportunities for practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and development partners to exchange knowledge, explore innovative approaches, and share good practices that strengthen agricultural development and evidence-informed decision-making across Africa.

Access Making Knowledge Work Webinar – 29th January 2026 Recordings via https://bit.ly/4bkHr50

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In this strategic role, Dr Covic will support the CGIAR Continental Champion for Africa — a rotational role currently held by Dr Simeon Ehui, Director General of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) — in advancing CGIAR’s mission to deliver science and innovation that transform food, land, and water systems across Africa.

Strengthening CGIAR’s engagement in Africa

The CGIAR Liaison Office for Africa has been established to strengthen coordination and coherence across CGIAR Centers, regional partners, and continental institutions. Based in Addis Ababa, the Office will deepen CGIAR’s engagement with the African Union (AU), FARA, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Sub-Regional Research Organizations (SROs), and national governments, ensuring that CGIAR’s science responds directly to Africa’s priorities and policy agendas, including AU Agenda 2063, the CAADP framework, and the CAADP Kampala Declaration.

Role and responsibilities

As Head of the CGIAR Liaison Office for Africa, Dr Covic will:

• Support the CGIAR Continental Champion in representing and advancing CGIAR’s mission across Africa;
• Coordinate CGIAR’s engagement with continental and regional institutions to ensure coherent, timely, and strategic interaction;
• Facilitate the development of a demand-driven continental research and innovation portfolio aligned with African priorities;
• Strengthen partnerships with national governments, regional bodies, and development partners;
• Enhance the visibility and communication of CGIAR’s contributions to transforming Africa’s food, land, and water systems.

A seasoned leader for Africa’s food systems

Dr Covic brings a distinguished record of leadership in nutrition, food systems innovation, and policy engagement across Africa. She has previously served as CGIAR Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, held senior scientific and leadership positions at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), and played leading roles in shaping African food and nutrition policy dialogues with the African Union and other continental institutions, linking science, policy, and implementation.

Transitional arrangements

In addition to her System-level responsibilities, Dr Covic will, during the transition period (January-June 2026), continue to serve as the ILRI Director General’s representative in Ethiopia, to ensure continuity while ILRI completes the recruitment of her successor.

Looking ahead

This appointment reflects CGIAR’s renewed commitment to strong partnerships, African leadership, and transformative impact, in line with its evolving System-wide integration and partnership model. Working closely with African institutions and partners, CGIAR will continue to strengthen its collaborative approach to advancing sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems across the continent.

For more information on Dr Namukolo Covic
ILRI profile: https://www.ilri.org/people/namukolo-covic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/namukolo-covic-070841189
X: https://www.twitter.com/namukoloc

source: https://www.cgiar.org/news-events/news/dr-namukolo-covic-leads-cgiars-liaison-office-africa 

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By Bridget Kakuwa, Benjamin Abugri &  Molalet Tsedeke 

Africa has taken a decisive step toward strengthening the resilience and long-term sustainability of its agrifood systems with the official opening of the Africa Continental Foresight Consultations for Resilient Agrifood Systems in Nairobi. The high-level consultations convened policymakers, researchers, development partners, and practitioners from across the continent to advance foresight as a core instrument for anticipatory governance, evidence-based planning, and resilient investment decision-making.

In his opening remarks, the representative of the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development/State Department of Agriculture (MOALD/SDA) Mr Peter Orangi welcomed delegates from the African Union Commission (AUC), the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), sub-regional organisations, universities, and Member States.

Mr. Peter Orangi, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development/State Department of Agriculture

He observed that the consultations were taking place at a pivotal moment for Africa’s agrifood systems, which are being shaped by climate change, demographic pressures, market volatility, and environmental degradation. He stressed that continental frameworks such as the Kampala CAADP Declaration, Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the Food Systems Resilience Programme provide a solid foundation for anticipatory and inclusive decision-making, noting that “foresight equips Africa to shape its agrifood future rather than be shaped by it.”

Officially opening the consultations, H.E. Moses Vilakati, African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment,  underscored that foresight is no longer optional in a context defined by climate shocks, volatile food and input prices, rapid technological change, and geopolitical and public health risks. He noted that the consultations directly advance the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and give practical effect to the Kampala CAADP Declaration and the CAADP Strategy and Action Plan 2026–2035, which recognise that Africa’s agrifood systems are being reshaped by demographic change, urbanisation, shifting diets, climate variability, and deeper regional integration. He further highlighted the alignment of the consultations with Phase 3 of the Food Systems Resilience Programme, which calls for strengthened forecasting, reduced response times between early warning and action, and improved institutional arrangements for preparedness across the continent.

H.E Moses Vilakati, Commissioner, AUC-ARBE

Vilakati stated that the wide range of institutions represented, from Member States and RECs to research organisations, farmer organisations, women’s and youth networks, and development partners, demonstrated a shared commitment to strengthening preparedness and long-term resilience across Africa’s agrifood systems. He emphasised that the consultations marked the beginning of a more structured and institutionalised continental engagement on foresight, which the African Union intends to embed as a standard instrument within its policy and planning systems.

H.E. Vilakati outlined five key policy directions that, in my view, should shape the continental framework and roadmap for foresight in Africa’s agrifood systems. First is the institutionalization of foresight within AU, REC, and national systems, including accountability frameworks, clear responsibilities, predictable resources, and regular reporting; secondly, the integration of foresight into CAADP, climate, and food systems agenda, emphasizing that foresight must inform the next generation of CAADP investment plans, climate adaptation strategies, food systems pathways, and trade and market policies; third is the strengthening of data, analytics, and capacities across the continent, ensuring that high-quality foresight depends on timely data, robust analytical tools, and skilled practitioners; fourth is to deliberately elevate community, youth, and gender-responsive perspectives where the foresight architecture formally recognizes and indigenous and community-based knowledge systems; and finally, requesting the linkage of foresight to concrete financing and accountability mechanisms, emphasizing that real value only occur when it lead to action.

Dr. Namukolo Covic, ILRI Director General’s Representative to Ethiopia, CGIAR Ethiopia Country Convener and Incoming Head of CGIAR Liaison Office for Africa

Contributing to the technical dialogue, Dr Namukolo Covic emphasised that foresight should be fully embedded in policy and investment processes rather than treated as a parallel activity. “Foresight is not an extra layer of work; it is an additional capability that helps us implement the FSRP and CAADP more effectively,” she said. She highlighted that foresight analysis allows policymakers to understand trade-offs and accelerate progress toward food security and equity, adding, “We must ask whether growth in production alone is enough, or whether everyone is truly accessing sufficient and nutritious food.”

The discussions also highlighted that Africa possesses strong, forward-looking policy instruments, but faces challenges in implementing and coordinating them. Dr Godfrey Bahigwa, former Director of Agriculture and Rural Development at AUC, noted that foresight supports better country-level choices based on comparative advantage. “The purpose of foresight is to help countries make informed choices, what food systems should be prioritised, and how resilience can be built around them,” he said, citing examples such as meat production in Kenya and fruit value chains in Ethiopia. He also cited CCARDESA and IGAD as instruments through which the World Bank appointed to implement FSRP.

Climate and environmental considerations featured prominently throughout the consultations. Several speakers warned that failure to align food systems within planetary boundaries would deepen climate and ecological risks. “If we do not sustain our food systems within planetary boundaries, we expose ourselves to even greater climate challenges,” one panellist cautioned, emphasising the need for foresight-driven innovation and, where necessary, disruptive approaches to food systems transformation.

Panel Discussion Session

A high-level panel discussion featuring Julius Gatune, Olugbenga Adesida, Geci Karuki-Sebina, and Wangeci Gitata-Kiriga underscored foresight as a systematic capability that goes beyond forecasting. Panellists highlighted that foresight requires mindset shifts, systems thinking, and institutional capacity to navigate complexity. “Foresight is not just about predicting the future; it is about building the capability to think differently and act under uncertainty,” one panellist remarked. Youth and intergenerational perspectives were also emphasised, with calls for more participatory and anticipatory approaches that consider the needs of future generations.

As the consultations drew to a close, participants agreed on a set of concrete outcomes to anchor foresight within Africa’s agrifood governance systems, supported by strengthened knowledge management and policy integration processes. Through thematic working groups on early warning and analytical systems, anticipatory governance, research alignment and capacity mapping, policy integration and knowledge uptake, and inclusive and gender-responsive foresight governance, delegates produced practical outputs including draft continental foresight frameworks, policy guidance templates, institutional readiness matrices, governance schematics, and a phased roadmap for embedding foresight into planning, budgeting, monitoring, and accountability processes at African Union, Regional Economic Community, and national levels.

Strong emphasis was placed on robust knowledge management systems to ensure that foresight evidence is systematically captured, translated, communicated, and reused through policy briefs, dashboards, learning platforms, and communities of practice, thereby strengthening uptake by policymakers and practitioners. Participants also underscored the integration of knowledge systems, community-based early warning mechanisms, and the voices of women and youth to ensure foresight approaches were people-centred and context-specific. The consultations culminated in an actionable continental roadmap aligned with the Food Systems Resilience Programme, the Kampala CAADP Declaration, and Agenda 2063, strengthening forecasting and analytics capacities, reducing the time between early warning and response, and ensuring that foresight meaningfully informed policy choices, investment decisions, and long-term resilience-building efforts across Africa’s agrifood systems.

Dr Abdulrazak Ibrahim, Institutional Capacity & Futures Cluster Lead, FARA

Dr Abdulrazak Ibrahim, Institutional Capacity and Futures cluster Lead Specialist at FARA, subsequently outlined the key deliverables of the consultations and their proposed implementation pathways, noting that these outputs are intended to drive practical transformation and long-term resilience across Africa’s agrifood systems.

Ms Beatrice Egulu, Policy Officer, AUC-ARBE

In closing, Ms Beatrice Egulu thanked all delegates for their commitment and active participation, urging them to remain engaged beyond the consultations to promote continuous cross-learning and knowledge exchange across institutions and countries. She emphasised that sustained collaboration would be essential for translating foresight insights into action.

Overall, the Africa Continental Foresight Consultations reaffirmed a shared commitment to institutionalising foresight across continental, regional, and national levels. Participants expressed confidence that the outcomes of the Nairobi meeting, including draft frameworks, governance models, and a continental roadmap, will strengthen Africa’s capacity to anticipate change, manage shocks, and deliver resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agrifood systems for present and future generations.

Dr Bridget Kakuwa is the Information Communication & Knowledge Management Manager at the Center for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA)

Mr Benjamin Abugri is Knowledge Management, Digitalization and Learning Cluster Lead Specialists at the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

Mr Molalet Tsedeke is Media Liaising and media center officer at the Information and Communication Directorate of the African Union Commission

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On Wednesday, 10 September 2025, I had the privilege of participating in the INTERFACES Side Event at Tropentag 2025, hosted at Bonn University under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Science-Policy Interfaces in Agricultural Research.” The event brought together researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners from Africa and Europe to reflect on how scientific knowledge can more effectively shape and inform policy processes. The workshop built on previous Tropentag conversations on participatory research and agricultural knowledge management, and it offered a platform to deepen the dialogue around bridging research, policy, and practice.

As part of the panel, which included representatives from FARA, BMZ, BMLEH, CIMMYT, ZEF, and IDOS, I was invited to share an African perspective on what works in strengthening the relationship between science and policy. In my intervention, I emphasised the importance of trust as the foundation of effective collaboration. Trust is built through recognition of mutual roles, investment in relationships, and creating shared opportunities. Without it, even the best-intentioned efforts at policy influence risk being undermined by suspicion or lack of ownership.

I argued that the need for deliberate and continuous engagement that brings everyone to the table is equally critical. Science-policy dialogue in Africa must not remain the preserve of researchers and policymakers alone. Farmers, academics, civil society actors, traditional authorities, youth, children, and women all hold knowledge and perspectives that enrich policymaking. Platforms such as Communities of Practice, Innovation Platforms, and, more recently, the Participatory Learning Platform piloted by the INTERFACES Project, offer concrete models for structuring inclusive collaboration. Such spaces create shared ownership of knowledge and allow diverse actors to contribute meaningfully to the agricultural transformation agenda.

I also reflected on the inevitability of change. Agricultural systems, like policy landscapes, are dynamic and continually shaped by shifting demands, emerging challenges, and new technologies. Bridging the science–policy gap, therefore, requires agility. It is not enough to establish dialogue; we must be willing to review, adapt, and adopt approaches that respond to the realities of our time. This adaptability ensures that knowledge remains relevant and actionable, rather than static and outdated.

Beyond the panel, I also facilitated a World Café session that focused on strengthening knowledge exchange and Communities of Practice in Africa. The discussions were guided by questions drawn from the Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development (KM4AgD) Agenda and the Accra Declaration. Participants reflected on how African institutions can better institutionalise knowledge exchange by embedding it within their core strategies, such as developing national KM policies, creating dedicated KM roles, and providing incentives that encourage continuous learning. They explored how Communities of Practice could be made more inclusive and impactful by ensuring that they embrace policymakers, farmers, and indigenous knowledge holders. The group also deliberated on how digital platforms such as FARADataInformS and AARIEIspace can be harnessed sustainably, with attention given to issues of interoperability, governance, and the fight against misinformation.

The feedback from participants was both rich and instructive. There was broad recognition that institutionalising knowledge management is no longer optional, particularly now that it features prominently in the Kampala Declaration and the CAADP Action Plan 2026–2035. Many also highlighted the need to clearly define what we mean by “farmer” in policy dialogues, to avoid blanket assumptions and ensure inclusivity. Others urged greater use of visuals in knowledge communication, emphasising that long, text-heavy materials are less effective in engaging diverse stakeholders. A recurring theme was the urgency of overcoming the fragmentation of digital platforms and removing barriers to accessing knowledge by working towards interoperability, so that knowledge can flow more seamlessly across Africa’s agricultural research and policy landscape.

The INTERFACES Side Event at Tropentag 2025 was an opportunity to exchange perspectives and reaffirm the centrality of knowledge management and communities of practice in driving agricultural transformation. It reinforced the conviction that Africa must invest in strong, inclusive, and adaptive knowledge ecosystems. Such ecosystems will ensure that research does not remain in silos but actively informs policy and practice, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.

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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – July 24, 2025 

The city of Addis Ababa today played host to the opening of a crucial Validation and Stocktaking Meeting on the margins of the UN Food Systems Summit +4 (UNFSS+4). Held under the theme “The Power of Foresight – Using Scenario Analysis to Drive Collaborative Action for Food Systems Transformation,” the gathering brought together over 20 dynamic participants at the Golden Tulip Hotel. Among them were foresight practitioners, Monitoring, Evaluation and learning (MEL) experts, Knowledge Management Experts, policymakers, researchers, and institutional representatives drawn from the CGIAR, sub-regional institutions, universities and a wide range of foresight practitioners from across Africa and beyond.

Jointly organized by the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and the Foresight4Food Initiative, with generous support from Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the event marks a major milestone in a two-year action research project aimed at co-developing quality criteria and evaluation approaches for using foresight as a strategic tool in transforming Africa’s food systems.

Day one unfolded with an interactive and forward-looking spirit. The sessions opened with a synthesis of knowledge drawn from previous literature reviews, expert consultations, and the project’s inception workshop. These reflections laid the groundwork for exploring how foresight, when properly designed, evaluated, and embedded in policy processes, can act as a transformative tool for systemic change, informed decision-making, and inclusive stakeholder engagement.

Participants examined how foresight can be made more inclusive and impactful, particularly by elevating the roles of youth and women and drawing from Africa’s rich Indigenous knowledge systems. They emphasised that African traditional knowledge, rooted in oral traditions, spirituality, and local values, should be acknowledged and respected within foresight methodologies.

Another key highlight was the emphasis on the role of knowledge management in capturing and utilizing these indigenous assets. Participants urged that foresight frameworks should not simply replicate external models, but instead reflect Africa’s own knowledge ecosystems, drawing from a blend of traditional wisdom and modern scientific insights. Digital transformation was celebrated as a key enabler, especially in expanding access to scenario planning tools, simulation models, and collaborative learning platforms that foster foresight literacy and drive collective decision-making.

The meeting also highlighted the growing ecosystem of foresight actors in Africa, including the leadership of the Africa Foresight Academy established by FARA. The Academy is a strategic platform supporting knowledge exchange, peer learning, and the institutionalisation of foresight practices across the continent’s agri-food systems.

The day’s final session was devoted to an intensive group exercise that brought these insights into sharper focus. Four thematic groups explored foundational questions shaping the future of foresight in Africa. One group reflected on the concept of impact, what it means in practice, how it is manifested, and how African contexts can shape its expression in policy, behavior, and institutional learning. Another group explored the criteria and indicators necessary to evaluate foresight quality and effectiveness, underlining the importance of adaptability, stakeholder engagement, and learning as both an output and a metric.

A third group took on the challenge of interrogating the foundational assumptions behind foresight processes. They examined the mental models and paradigms that often go unquestioned, proposing strategies, including simulation, role play, storytelling, among others, to help practitioners surface and challenge these assumptions in pursuit of more inclusive, locally grounded scenario-building. The fourth group focused on the practical application of foresight, examining what makes it truly useful, how to align it with user needs, and how to embed it into decision-making spaces through co-creation, timely communication, and digital integration.

These reflections will not only enrich the emerging M&E Guide that the project aims to produce but also build shared ownership among practitioners and decision-makers across the continent. The knowledge and outputs generated will be carried forward to the broader UNFSS+4 Summit deliberations, ensuring that African voices, experiences, and priorities remain central in shaping the global future of food systems foresight.

Join the Foresight Community of Practice https://faraafrica.community/fara-net/afa/join

Images from Workshop: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCnDF9

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From 25 to 28 June 2025, FARA and IDOS, through the INTERFACES Project, had the privilege of attending the 10th European Conference on African Studies (ECAS) in the vibrant city of Prague, Czech Republic. Hosted for the first time in Central Europe, ECAS 2025 was a historic gathering that marked the 10th anniversary of this prestigious forum. Under the theme “African, Afropolitan, and Afropean Belongings and Identities”, the conference brought together a rich diversity of scholars, practitioners and policy makers from around the globe to present and discuss possible solutions to crucial issues. The conference offered a dynamic platform to explore the evolving complexities of African identities across geographic, cultural and political spaces.

The opening ceremony which saw the participation of over 400 participants, was graced by the presence of a representative of the Minister of foreign affairs, Czech Republic, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts of Charles University, the outgoing and incoming presidents of the African Studies in Europe (AEGIS) and many other representatives from universities, development partners and research institutes in Europe, Africa and from across the other continents. The Dean expressed utmost gratitude to the organising team and acknowledged the curiosity and eagerness of participants in deepening their knowledge and exploring growth opportunities. “Our curiosity and drive to understand the world have never been deterred by distance,” he stated. The representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the value of participation from African-based scholars in contributing to collectively understanding African, Afropean and Afropolitan realities. “Issues cannot be tackled if we misunderstand their true complexities and substance”, he highlighted.

Summary of Conference Events and Presentations

The preliminary list of panels for the ECAS 2025 side events revealed a vibrant and diverse programme, comprising 116 thematic panels and more than 900 individual presentations. These presentations were delivered by a wide range of contributors, including scholars, researchers, and practitioners from over 40 countries across Africa, Europe, North America, and Asia. The programme reflected a strong interdisciplinary orientation and an inclusive academic culture that bridges continents, perspectives, and generations.

A significant number of presentations explored issues related to identity, belonging, and mobility. These discussions engaged deeply with the complexities of African, Afropolitan, and Afropean identities as constructed through migration, diaspora experiences, digital engagement, and generational memory. The notion of belonging—whether physical, cultural, or emotional—is interrogated through various lenses, including student mobilities, gendered narratives, and intergenerational transitions.

Decolonization and epistemic justice emerged as central themes across many panels. Presenters delved into efforts to decolonize African studies by challenging Eurocentric curricula and advocating for the recognition and integration of indigenous knowledge systems. These conversations were coupled with critical reflections on research methodologies and positionality, especially in complex or conflict, prone field contexts.

Environmental justice and climate change were also dominant concerns. Presenters highlighted the intersection of ecological degradation, resource conflicts, indigenous environmental governance, and climate, induced migration. Discussions ranged from the politics of green energy and extractivism to local conservation practices and community, based adaptations to climate stress.

Health and care systems were widely addressed, with sessions focusing on traditional medicine, cancer care, reproductive health, mental wellbeing, and health technologies such as drones. These topics were examined both in terms of access and the social dynamics of caregiving, often linking healthcare to broader cultural and political frameworks.

Political cultures, governance, and conflict, related issues also featured prominently. Panels investigated African political systems, state fragility, populist movements, and responses to global geopolitical shifts. Other presentations explored militarization, peacebuilding, African sovereignty, and citizen engagement, offering nuanced insights into how power is contested and negotiated in diverse African settings.

Digitalization and technology, related themes are gaining increasing scholarly attention, as evident in presentations on digital economies, social media, artificial intelligence, and digital activism. These conversations reflected on how Africans are using technology not only to build livelihoods and identities but also to resist exclusion and articulate alternative futures.

Ms. Cecile Poitevin of Center for Development Research (ZEF)

Gender and feminist perspectives cut across multiple panels, bringing attention to the lived experiences of African women, constructions of masculinity, LGBTQ+ identities, and the gendered dimensions of migration, care, and cultural production. These themes were analyzed in relation to social norms, political agency, and structural inequality.

The arts, culture, and literature panels offered rich engagements with African and diasporic storytelling, creative expression, and the politics of memory. Presenters employed innovative formats such as autoethnography, performance, and visual art to examine cultural production and resistance. These sessions demonstrated how artistic practices serve as powerful tools for narrating identity, contesting colonial legacies, and reimagining belonging.

Urbanization and development were explored through discussions on informality, infrastructure, city, and the evolving dynamics of African urban life. Presentations reflected on how people navigate, contest, and shape their urban environments in the context of global development narratives and local aspirations.

Science to Policy Communication Session

Sometimes, as researchers, we find it challenging to share or communicate our research with policymakers. The use of complex and technical language (jargon), the absence of actionable recommendations and the long and dense formats of research findings sometimes hinder the uptake of research in decision, making.  The ability to bridge the gap between research and policy and between researchers and policymakers is crucial in addressing some of the global challenges confronting the world. This session, organised by the Nordic Africa Institute, delved into the Whys and Hows of Science to Policy Communication, providing practical tips for researchers and communicators on how to impact policymakers. It threw more light on issues such as mapping your target groups, combining texts and visuals and choosing the right channels. This session was a great eye-opener as it laid emphasis on the need to ‘wear the shoes’ of the policy makers and understand that there is a dire need to design publications in formats that are suited to fast paced policy environments where decisions are made quickly.

FARA & IDOS Event on the theme “From agricultural knowledge to innovation and adoption: Empowering smallholder farmers”

Organized by the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) and the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and moderated by Benjamin Abugri and Theodore Asimeng, this session sought to discuss measures for strengthening innovation systems and adoption among African smallholder farmers. It focused on three main challenges:

• Mainstreaming indigenous knowledge through participatory processes
• Promoting gender, responsive innovations
• Fostering youth, specific solutions
  

  Dr. Theodore Asimeng of German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)

As one of the lead papers, Mabel Shu from the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) and Coordinator of the KM4AgD CoP presented on ‘Bridging the gap between research, policy, and practice through Indigenous Knowledge (IK) in African agriculture’. Her presentation highlighted the growing value of IK in addressing climate, biodiversity, and land management challenges, while noting its continued marginalisation. Findings from a Knowledge Café revealed key pitfalls, such as the exclusion of Indigenous Communities from research and policymaking, and the undervaluing of their contributions. Good practices included inclusive policymaking, community participation, and scientific validation of IK. A case study on the Zai pit system illustrated IK’s practical value. Mabel recommended respectful engagement, legal protections, and stronger partnerships to ensure IK is recognised, protected, and integrated into development efforts.

Mabel Shu from the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) and Coordinator of the KM4AgD CoP

Other most intriguing presentations were those specifically addressing gender power dynamics and gender-responsive innovations in agriculture. One of them was the session on Gender Power Dynamics and Farmers’ Decision, Making in Sustainable Farm Management in Northern Ghana, that offered great insight into some of the everyday inequalities shaping agricultural practices. The presentation revealed that in many rural Ghanaian communities, gender is not just a social identity but a determinant of access to agricultural resources and authority from childhood through adulthood.

It traced how gendered roles begin early where boys typically inherit agricultural knowledge from their fathers, gaining hands-on experience and eventual decision-making authority over land and resources while girls on the other hand, are often socialized into supporting roles, with limited access to land, fewer agricultural options and constrained mobility. As women grow older, their challenges compound. Access to capacity, building opportunities remains unequal due to sex, segregated training programs and time constraints from household duties. Even in adulthood, men are more likely to control financial resources, prioritize the family farm, and move freely between markets, further reinforcing their dominance in sustainable decision, making.

The session on Gender, Responsive Innovations in Agriculture: Bridging North and Sub-Saharan Africa for Smallholder Empowerment spotlighted the urgent need to realign agricultural innovation with the lived realities of women farmers. Drawing on case studies from Tunisia, Uganda and Zambia, the discussion exposed how entrenched barriers such as insecure land tenure, gender, biased extension systems, and a disconnect between formal knowledge systems and local practices continue to limit women’s agricultural potential. Yet, amidst these challenges, local innovations are emerging with global relevance.

In addition to these, other sessions addressed youth participation in agriculture, bridging the gap between research, policy and practice through indigenous knowledge and features of grassroots agricultural innovation in Africa. Panellists broke down complex issues into simpler ones with the aim of addressing the root causes rather than symptoms.

Local solutions, global lessons

Major takeaways from the session were the following:

• Prioritise women’s land rights and access to agricultural resources
• Tailor extension services to meet women’s unique needs and time constraints
• Promote participatory innovation development that values local knowledge
• Facilitate knowledge exchange between North and sub-Saharan Africa to bridge systems and strategies
• Recognize women’s agency as central to driving sustainable agricultural change
• Farmer gendered social position influences adoption of sustainable practices
• Consider how conflict and insecurity impact gender roles in agriculture

These conversations offered a hopeful reminder that building resilient, inclusive agricultural systems demands more than technical solutions; it requires addressing the deeply embedded social and structural barriers that shape who gets to participate, lead and benefit from agricultural resources.

Overall, the ECAS 2025 demonstrated a robust commitment to interdisciplinary, decolonial, and participatory scholarship. There was a strong emphasis on intergenerational dialogue, community engagement, and the centrality of lived experiences in shaping research. The diversity of voices, themes, and methodological approaches reaffirms the conference’s relevance as a global platform for critical reflection and forward-looking conversations on Africa and its diaspora.

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On June 20, 2025, the Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development (KM4AgD) Community of Practice (CoP) held its Bi-Monthly webinar under the theme “Best Practices in Building and Sustaining Effective KM Partnerships.” Organised under the CAADP-XP4 Programme, the session brought together KM professionals, researchers, development partners, and institutional leaders from across Africa and beyond to reflect on how knowledge partnerships can be strengthened to support innovation, learning, and policy engagement in agriculture.

The webinar opened with warm remarks from the moderator, Mabel Lum Shu, who welcomed participants and set the tone for a highly interactive learning experience. She underscored the importance of creating collaborative spaces where practitioners can co-create, share, and reflect on what works in knowledge partnerships. In her words, “the vibrancy of our community depends on how well we listen, adapt, and innovate together.”

One of the session’s highlights was a presentation by Benjamin Abugri, KM, Digitalisation and Learning Lead at the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and Facilitator of the KM4AgD CoP. Drawing from field experiences and community engagements, Benjamin presented six practical ingredients for building and sustaining successful Communities of Practice. These included: setting clear goals, establishing a learning plan, assigning a moderator or facilitator, using social media and forums for communication, equipping members with collaboration tools, and supporting emerging communities to maintain momentum. He illustrated how these components have been applied within the KM4AgD CoP to strengthen participation and impact. “By nurturing emerging communities,” he noted, “we spread innovation and sustain momentum within our knowledge ecosystem.”

The keynote address was delivered by Krishan Bheenick, a globally respected Knowledge Management consultant. In a deeply reflective and engaging presentation, Krishan traced the evolution of KM in agricultural development from early institutional frameworks to present-day knowledge ecosystems. Using the “KM Tree” model and an ecosystem-based approach, he emphasised the need for strategic alignment, capacity building, and modular planning within KM networks. Krishan encouraged participants to shift from seeing KM as a support service to recognising it as a strategic driver of transformation. He proposed the development of SMART, modular work packages within CoPs that can be celebrated as collective achievements and used to attract new members and partners.

His presentation also introduced the idea of Information, Communication, and Knowledge Management (ICKM) outputs, categorised as communication products, information products, and knowledge products. These, he argued, should be tailored to different levels of stakeholder engagement: global, regional, national, community, and organisational. This approach, rooted in the principle of subsidiarity, allows for more meaningful engagement and storytelling across the agricultural research and development landscape.

The webinar further benefited from insights shared by several eminent guests, including Professor Andreas Brandner, Executive Director of the Knowledge for Development Partnership (K4DP) and Professor Annette Nabatanzi of the Knowledge for Development Centre at Makerere University Business School. Their reflections highlighted both the global relevance and local nuances of KM practice in Africa, emphasising the need for trust-building, shared learning, and institutional ownership.

A significant milestone during the webinar was the launch of the 2025 KM4AgD CoP Survey Report, presented by Bebel Nguepi of YPARD Cameroon. The report captured emerging trends in KM practice, revealing that while the tools and technologies have evolved, core challenges such as engagement, capacity gaps, and institutional integration remain persistent. Upile Faith Muhariwa (Malawi) served as rapporteur for the session, ensuring that the learning points were well documented.

The technical smoothness of the event was made possible through the expert support of Allan Shaquille Pennaneach and Prince Owusu, who handled the digital logistics and participant engagement with professionalism and precision.

In closing, the session reaffirmed the role of KM4AgD as a dynamic platform for collective learning, innovation, and policy influence. As Africa continues to navigate complex development challenges, the importance of well-structured, inclusive, and collaborative KM partnerships cannot be overstated. By drawing on best practices and adapting to context, the KM4AgD CoP continues to offer a blueprint for how knowledge can be mobilised to transform agriculture and livelihoods across the continent. With FARA, CAADP-XP4 partners (CORAF, ASARECA, CCARDESA, AFAAS), INTERFACES and the CGIAR, the CoP remains committed to inclusive, evidence-based, and sustainable KM practices.

Learn more at: km4agd.faraafrica.org

Access Krishan’s Presentation at: https://aaspace.org/items/2d0d2042-39a0-45ee-a81c-19b9eaaaf52f

Join the KM4AgD CoP: https://faraafrica.community/fara-net/km4s3a/km4agd/join

The post Sustaining Knowledge Partnerships for Agricultural Transformation: Lessons from the KM4AgD CoP June 2025 Webinar appeared first on FARA Africa.

The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana, in collaboration with Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences (H-BRS), Germany, and the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), has officially launched an E-Certificate Programme in Sustainable Land Management.

The ceremony took place at the University’s Auditorium, Multipurpose Building, and was jointly officiated by the Vice-Chancellor of UESD, Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, and Prof. Wiltrud Terlau, Head of the International Centre for Sustainable Development at H-BRS. The event drew members of faculty, management, and senior staff, including the Registrar, Mrs. Mary Abena Agyepong.

The E-Certificate Programme is the outcome of a strategic partnership between the two universities, aimed at delivering short, specialised courses at UESD. The courses, which will run for six weeks to three months, include modules such as Land Information Management Systems and Evolution of Traditional Governance Structures, Climate-Smart Land Management, Gender and Land Rights and Sustainable Land Use Planning. The programme is open to students, alumni, and practitioners in the field.

In his remarks, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor and UESD Coordinator of the INTERFACES Project, Prof. Edward Wiafe Debrah, outlined the roadmap that guided the development of the curriculum. He acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Peter Asare-Nuamah and other collaborators from H-BRS and partner institutions across Africa and Europe. He further noted that the programme will be hosted on UESD’s Learning Management System, making it accessible to policy practitioners, students, and professionals in land governance across the region and beyond.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nyarko-Sampson, commended the team for successfully launching the programme, describing it as a major step in UESD’s mission to lead in sustainability-focused education and innovation. He expressed optimism that the programme will attract a high calibre of applicants interested in advancing sustainable land management practices.

Prof. Wiltrud Terlau also expressed her delight at the collaboration, stating that the initiative exemplifies the importance of transdisciplinary knowledge co-creation and capacity building in sustainable land use and governance, particularly across sub-Saharan Africa. H-BRS actively partners with Universities around the world, especially in Africa, to promote capacity building and sustainable development through education and research. It works on sustainability, transdisciplinary research, and international cooperation, such as the collaboration with UESD).

The post UESD, H-BRS and FARA Launch E-Certificate Programme in Sustainable Land Management appeared first on FARA Africa.

To foster transdisciplinary exchange on sustainable land management, climate resilience, and agricultural innovation in Sub-Saharan Africa, over 120 leading researchers, policymakers, and practitioners will gather in Accra for the “Status Seminar 2025.” Hosted by the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS), the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), and the Center for Development Research (ZEF) at the University of Bonn. This high-level event blends cutting-edge science with community-based innovation.

The seminar will spotlight four major regional research projects, including COINS, DecLaRe, Minodu, and InfoRange, as well as the cross-cutting support initiative INTERFACES, which links institutions across Germany and several African countries. These projects collaborate to address pressing challenges in agriculture and natural resource management through inclusive, evidence-based, and scalable solutions.

INTERFACES strengthens the projects’ effectiveness and visibility by supporting knowledge management, networking, science communication, social learning, capacity development, and policy engagement. The seminar will offer a platform to showcase research outcomes and foster dialogue among diverse stakeholders—from scientists to traditional authorities, from youth representatives to development partners.

Key themes of the 2025 edition include gender equity and intersectionality in sustainable land use, digital transformation in agriculture, and governance in fragile and contested regions. Participants will explore how collaborative knowledge development and innovation can bridge the gap between research and real-world impact, building stronger connections between Africa and Europe.

Highlights of the week-long program include a keynote address by Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice Chancellor of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (Ghana); a high-level panel on policy challenges in sustainable development; hands-on training workshops; and the launch of a new e-learning certificate.

A curated exhibition of posters and multimedia displays will showcase community perspectives and cross-national collaborations. Additionally, a field excursion will take participants to Dawhenya, where they will visit the Agri-Impact Greenhouses and facilities of the Ghana Irrigation Authority. These sites exemplify integrated approaches to youth employment, food production, and sustainable irrigation practices. The Ghana Irrigation Authority, in partnership with local and international stakeholders, supports farmers in producing and packaging crops like rice for domestic and export markets.

The opening ceremony on 3rd June will feature high-level dignitaries and institutional leaders, including representatives from:

• The Office of the Vice President of Ghana
• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (MP), Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI)
• Eric Opoku (MP), Minister for Food and Agriculture (TBC)
• Paul Bosu, Director-General of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
• Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA
• Stefan Müller, Head of Division, Future Provision – Fundamental and Sustainable Development Research, German Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space.
• HE Daniel Krull, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany

The conference will also host representatives from traditional institutions, youth and women’s groups, the German Embassy in Ghana, , and the media.

Project summaries

INTERFACES – Supporting Pathways to Sustainable Land Management in Africa

INTERFACES operates across Sub-Saharan Africa, with a strong focus on West Africa, enhancing the integration and outreach of regional initiatives in sustainable land management. The project facilitates inclusive dialogue on future visions and systemic change among scientists, policymakers, and community actors. By promoting co-learning, policy-relevant communication, and inclusive knowledge-sharing, INTERFACES helps bridge the gap between research and action. It also mainstreams sustainable land management concepts into academic programs in Africa and Germany, ensuring lasting impact. A commitment to gender responsiveness and social inclusion ensures that solutions equitably address the needs of diverse populations.

Key Contact:
Dr. Tina Beuchelt, University of Bonn – beuchelt@uni-bonn.de
Website: INTERFACES

COINS – Co-developing Innovations for Sustainable Land Management in West African Smallholder Farming Systems

COINS works to sustainably intensify agriculture in Northern Ghana and the Senegal River Valley without expanding cultivated land. The project co-develops efficient land management strategies by considering both biophysical and socio-economic contexts. Through landscape-based modelling and data science, it identifies and pilots viable agricultural innovations. Farmers, policymakers, and scientists collaborate in innovation labs to test and refine solutions, focusing on inclusive risk management and incentive systems. The initiative ultimately supports policy frameworks that enhance food security and environmental sustainability.

Key Contact:
Dr. Jonas Meier, DLR – Jonas.meier@dlr.de
Website: COINS

DecLaRe – Decision Support for Strengthening Land Resilience in the Face of Global Challenges

DecLaRe is strengthening land and livelihood resilience in the sub-humid savannahs of Northern Benin and Ghana. The project develops a decision support system that combines scientific modelling with local and indigenous knowledge. This system helps guide policies and practices that support sustainable crop and livestock production, improve food systems, and enhance climate resilience. By aligning innovation with local realities and ensuring accessibility, DecLaRe fosters collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and the private sector.

Key Contact:
Prof. Dr. Andreas Buerkert, University of Kassel – buerkert@uni-kassel.de
Website: DecLaRe

InfoRange – Increasing Efficiency in Rangeland-Based Livestock Systems through Co-designed Digital Technologies

InfoRange leverages digital innovation to enhance rangeland management and livestock health in Kenya and Namibia. Working closely with pastoralist communities, veterinarians, and local authorities, the project co-designs mobile tools for pasture and veterinary management. These tools combine local knowledge with remote sensing and real-time data, offering accessible and context-specific decision support. InfoRange prioritizes co-creation with end-users, gender inclusion, and the use of participatory methods to ensure solutions are responsive to community needs and scalable beyond the project’s lifespan.

Key Contact:
Prof. Dr. Brigitte Kaufmann, DITSL – b.kaufmann@ditsl.org
Website: InfoRange

Minodu – Fostering Local Sustainable Development through Research and Technology

Minodu bridges the gap between research and practical land management in Togo by translating sustainability knowledge into accessible, user-friendly formats. It promotes inclusive dialogue with communities—especially women, youth, and digitally marginalized groups—to co-develop locally relevant solutions on climate change, water management, and land restoration. Through participatory approaches, Minodu empowers communities with knowledge, tools, and networks that drive context-specific actions and long-term sustainability.

Key Contact:
Carina Lange, DFKI – carina.lange@dfki.de
Website: Minodu

For Media contact:

FARA & IDOS

Key Contact: babugri@faraafrica.org | Theodore.Asimeng@idos-research.de

Visit Website: Home – FARA Africa | SLM Africa

The post STATUS SEMINAR 2025: Advancing Inclusive and Climate-Resilient Land Management in Sub-Saharan Africa appeared first on FARA Africa.

One such initiative is the Soils for Africa (S4A) Initiative, which has been pivotal in shaping Africa’s agricultural landscape. The S4A initiative has developed a continental, harmonised baseline of soil information crucial for decision support. It responds to the longstanding fragmentation of soil data in Africa, providing policymakers, fertiliser manufacturers, extension service providers, smallholder farmers, and the private sector with reliable, actionable soil data to inform better decisions for sustainable agricultural practices.

Building on this momentum, FARA and ISRIC are conducting a first-level Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop for selected African ICT and Knowledge Management (KM) experts. This important step aims to strengthen national and regional capacities to use and host the African Soils Information database developed under the Soils for Africa initiative, now being advanced through the Soils Initiative for Africa (SIA) championed by the African Union Commission (AUC). The AUC has designated FARA as the Technical Support Organisation for the African Soil Information System and the Soils Initiative for Africa.

The Accra Training: Building the First Cohort of Soil Information Ambassadors

The first cohort training is taking place in Accra, Ghana, from April 23 to 26, 2025. Participants selected are undergoing intensive capacity development on the technical and operational aspects of soil information systems, positioning them as the first ambassadors in scaling the African Soil Information System across the continent.

A strong call to action marked the opening ceremony on April 23. Delivering remarks on behalf of the Executive Director of FARA, Dr Aggrey Agumya, the Acting Director for Research and Innovation, Prof Oluwole Fatunbi, welcomed participants and highlighted the critical importance of the initiative:

• He noted that the gathering represented a pool of experts tasked with addressing the current fragmentation of soils data across Africa, a gap ISRIC is technically supporting to bridge.
• He underscored the strategic importance of soil information to key stakeholders – from fertilizer companies to extension workers and policymakers – emphasizing that managing Africa’s soils better is fundamental to agricultural transformation.
• Trainees were encouraged to take the opportunity seriously, likening them to the “first apostles” of the Soil Information System rollout.
• He also pointed to future plans to scale this effort under the African Union Soil Observatory (AUSO) Project, funded by the European Commission, expected to commence later in the year.
• Finally, he warmly welcomed all participants to Accra, with a special mention to the technical trainers from ISRIC.

In her remarks, Mary Steverink-Mosugu, Projects Coordinator from ISRIC, expressed appreciation to FARA for the strong collaboration and reiterated ISRIC’s commitment to supporting Africa’s drive for better soil management through technical excellence and shared expertise.

A Deep Dive into Soil Information Systems: Program Highlights

Facilitated by Luis Calisto and Eric Asamoah, both experts from the ISRIC – World Soil Information, the four-day training program was designed to provide a comprehensive and practical immersion into soil information systems and related technologies:

Main Workshop Facilitator Luis Calisto, ISRIC

• Day 1: Participants received an overview of the Soils for Africa project and the upcoming AUSO project. Key sessions covered soil data collection principles, FAIR data (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) practices, and methodologies for organising and serving soil data.
• Day 2: The training featured a guided tour of the Soil Information System (SIS), hands-on exploration of SIS interfaces, and a technical breakdown of SIS architecture and its integration components.
• Day 3: Participants delved deeper into advanced SIS architecture topics, including Git repositories, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CICD) pipelines, and assessment of FARA’s human and infrastructure capacity readiness for hosting and expanding the system.
• Day 4: The final day focused on evaluating training outcomes, assessing FARA’s policy and infrastructure landscape for soil information system deployment, and defining next steps for broader rollout and sustainability.

The workshop concluded with a call for continuous collaboration and knowledge sharing as Africa sets the foundation for a robust, accessible, open and user-driven soil information system critical for achieving sustainable food systems on the continent.

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