Platform for African – European Partnership in Agricultural Research for Development

Monday, April 7, 2025

CGIAR Science Week, Nairobi

7-12 April 2025. CGIAR Science Week, Nairobi. CGIAR and the Kenyan Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) convened science leaders and global decision-makers in Nairobi, Kenya, for the inaugural CGIAR Science Week.  Over 10,000 delegates, including farmers, science experts, policymakers, partners, and funders, convened in person and online at Science Week. 

Plenary speakers, along with a full schedule of events, exhibitions, field trips, and workshops, can be found HERE

Science Week also marks the roll-out of CGIAR’s new Research Portfolio 2025-2030, a significant scale-up in our ambition and capacity to tackle the impact of some of the world’s most pressing environmental and nutritional challenges. This groundbreaking six-year initiative, CGIAR’s longest to date, will channel $6-$12 billion in estimated funding to deliver critical research for over 100 countries and 3,000 local partners, fostering sustainable farming, food security, and livelihood resilience.

Extract of the program


07/04 Plenary 1: Opening Ceremony - Welcoming Science


CGIAR Science Week opened with a high-level plenary session that underscored the organization's unwavering commitment to international agricultural research and the critical role of sustained global investment in innovation, technology, and science. 

This session served as a cornerstone for the week, setting the stage for exploring transformative solutions to the complex challenges facing agri-food systems. 
  • Recognizing the interconnected and context-specific nature of these challenges, the session reflected on past successes and lessons learned while embracing new approaches that prioritize inclusivity, partnership, and innovation. 
  • A key focus was how CGIAR can foster mission-driven collaborations—particularly through South-South cooperation—to ensure that agricultural advancements reach those who need them most, especially marginalized and underserved farming communities. 
  • By welcoming diverse perspectives and leveraging cutting-edge research, this plenary guided the reimagining of a sustainable and resilient future for people, the planet, and food systems worldwide.

Segment 1: Opening Ceremony - Welcoming Science 

  1. Sequence I.1: Welcome remarks 
  2. Sequence 1.2: Panel Discussion - Science for the Future  
  3. Sequence 1.3: Opening remarks 
  4. Sequence 1.4: High-Level Roundtable Discussion – Innovations and Partnerships for Food Security 
  5. Sequence 1.5: Official Opening with the Chief Guest 
 

Segment 2: Empowering Inclusivity 

  1. Sequence 2.1:  Panel Discussion: Addressing the challenges of our time with inclusive innovation. 
  2. Sequence 2.2: Fireside chat: Empowering Inclusivity 
  3. Sequence 2.3: Scene Setting on Partnerships - See: GFAiR @ the Sequence 2.3: Scene Setting on Partnerships
  4. Sequence 2.4: Panel Discussion: Power in Partnership

08/04 Plenary 2: Building Bridges & Scaling Impact


09/04 Plenary 3: Targeting Transformation - Africa & Harvesting Innovation - Latin America & Caribbean


10/04 Plenary 4: Connecting Science & Growing Frontiers



11/04 Plenary 5: Closing Ceremony

Side Events



at No comments:
Labels: ,

The GFAiR Progress and Prospects Meeting

7 April 2025. Nairobi. ​The GFAiR Progress and Prospects Meeting is a pivotal gathering organized by the Global Forum on Agricultural Innovation and Research (GFAiR) to assess advancements, share insights, and strategize future directions in agricultural research and innovation. This meeting convenes stakeholders from National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international organizations, donors, and the private sector to foster collaboration and ensure that research initiatives are effectively aligned with the evolving needs of global food systems.

The meeting was held in Nairobi, Kenya and online before the CGIAR Science Week and the Global NARS Consortium launch scheduled on 10 April at 10.30-12.00. The Global NARS Consortium (GNC) aims to transform agricultural research by shifting National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) from passive implementers to active leaders, bridging the gap between research and real-world impact through strategic partnerships, sustainable investments, and a demand-driven agenda. The Call to Action for the Global NARS Consortium (GNC) urges stakeholders to commit to strengthening NARS' leadership in agricultural research through strategic collaboration, resource mobilization, capacity building, and policy advocacy to drive impactful, evidence-based solutions for global agrifood challenges.

This Progress and Prospects meeting provided an overview of the recent work progress on Global NARS Consortium, Collective Actions and explored potential funding and other partnerships to address common challenges and achieve common objectives. 

  • Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Chair, GFAiR Steering Committee, Welcome and opening   
  • Prof. Dr. Hildegard Lingnau, GFAiR Executive Secretary  - Update on progress and prospects 
  • Dr. Selim Louafi, Deputy Director for Research and Strategy, CIRAD -  Keynote speech
  • Dr.  Romano De Vivo, Vice-Chair, GFAiR Steering Committee + Francois Stepman GFAiR - Potential funding and other partnerships 

at No comments:
Labels:

Integrating Agroecology within NAPs and NDCs

2 April 2025. Study Report Launch – Integrating Agroecology within NAPs and NDCs by AFSAThe report examines how key agroecological principles like biodiversity, soil health, and community participation are often referenced in policy documents without being fully recognized or supported. 

Through in-depth desk reviews, expert interviews, and a regional stakeholder workshop, the study highlights major barriers, including limited policy support, weak institutional capacity, and the dominance of industrial agriculture models.

Resources:



This report is not just a call for policymakers but also a wake-up call to all actors including governments, development agencies, fi nancial institutions, and civil society to work together to adopt agroecology into Africa’s climate commitments. The urgency of the climate crisis demands that we
act now to elevate agroecology as the pathway toward a sustainable, climate resilient future for Africa.
at No comments:
Labels:

COLEAD's Research and Innovation Brokerage Department

2 April 2025. COLEAD's Research and Innovation Brokerage Department Research programme:  Research in the field for those working in the field

COLEAD's Role: COLEAD is a private sector association (not-for-profit) that facilitates actions to increase the contribution of the agricultural sector to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. They design and manage development programs in the agriculture and food sector, providing technical assistance, vocational training, and support services, including research and innovation brokerage.

COLEAD's Research and Innovation Brokerage Department: This department develops solutions tailored to the challenges faced by fruit and vegetable producers in ACP countries, focusing on validated technologies like plant protection and AI to intercropping and crop rotation.

COLEAD's Activities: COLEAD also aims to facilitate relations with stakeholders involved in strengthening the competitiveness of fruit and vegetable sectors, particularly those responsible for setting up sanitary and phytosanitary safety systems.

COLEAD's Technical Resources: They also develop and disseminate technical resources based on the specific needs of the horticultural sector in African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries.
at No comments:
Labels: , ,

Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit

27 March 2025. Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit

Complementing the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Vision and Road Map and the Commitment Guide, the six thematic working groups of the N4G International Advisory Group have formulated recommendations and examples of commitments across the six N4G thematic areas.

Developed through a multistakeholder consultative process (thematic working groups are composed of representatives from organizations in the N4G International Advisory Group representing governments, international organizations, civil society organizations, philanthropies and the private sector; these groups have been moderated by UN agencies), they provide a thematic analysis of gaps and evidence on effective strategies to advance nutrition outcomes, with an aim to support stakeholders – such as governments, bilateral and multilateral donors, UN organizations, civil society organizations, businesses and research institutions – in developing meaningful financial and political commitments for N4G Paris.

These thematic recommendations are available at the following links:
at No comments:
Labels:

Webinars April 2025

2 April 2025, 14:30-15:30 (UTC). COLEAD's Research and Innovation Brokerage Department Research programme Research in the field for those working in the field

2 -4 April 2025. APPSA scientific conference - by CCARDESA

3 April 2025 - 15:00-16:30 CEST/ GMT + 2) | Unlocking Generative AI for agriculture in LMICs
  • Experts from FAO, Digital Green, Ubuntoo, Kissan AI, and Digital Agri Hub will showcase AI-driven solutions such as Agri-based large language models (LLMs), chatbots, and digital tools for data-driven decision-making in agriculture.
  • The session will include flash presentations from solution providers, a panel discussion and an interactive discussion via Q&A focusing on AI applications beyond cultivation, challenges in LMICs, and key debates like open source vs. supervised AI models.
  • This event will provide practical insights, expert knowledge, and networking opportunities for D4Ag actors, policymakers, and innovators.
7-9 April 2025. Salzburg, Austria. World Mycotoxin Forum - 15th conference

7-12 April 2025. CGIAR Science Week, Nairobi
  • 07/04 Plenary 1: Opening Ceremony - Welcoming Science
  • 08/04 Plenary 2: Building Bridges & Scaling Impact
  • 09/04 Plenary 3: Targeting Transformation - Africa & Harvesting Innovation - Latin America & Caribbean
  • 10/04 Plenary 4: Connecting Science  & Growing Frontiers
  • 11/04 Plenary 5: Closing Ceremony
Side Events 

  • Who are the essential partners and stakeholders to involve during the preliminary phase of an FFS programme on climate change?
  • What skills and technical competencies do Master Trainers and Facilitators need?
  • How should the preliminary studies be conducted and what are their main objectives? 
  • What tools can be used to assess a community’s climate vulnerability?
  • Who are the key actors to invite to the curriculum development, and what is the main objective?
9 April 2025, from 14:00-16:00 UTC.  Strategies for Effective Marketing and Branding.
  • The 2nd session of the UN Women - COLEAD South-South Series 
  • This session will be held online on Wednesday, and will be available in English and French.
  • This session aims to address the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face in marketing and branding, and to provide strategies for overcoming these obstacles. It will explore how effective marketing and branding can help women-led businesses thrive, attract loyal customers, and build sustainable competitive advantages.
  • Programme: English and French / Biodata: English and French / Registration: Link
  • The audience will get insights from the work of the Kenyan Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM), a network of Civil Society Organizations / NGOs working with small-scale farmers in East, Central, and Southern Africa. The presentation will show how the work that empowers women improves the food security of the families, the social and economic situation of farmers and their communities as a whole.
  • The Joint Research Centre will present the new section on Gender Equality and Food Systems of its Knowledge Centre on Global Food and Nutrition Security, co-chaired by DG INTPA. This knowledge platform highlights key policies and initiatives at both the international and EU levels while offering regular updates on news, events, publications and policy actions.
  • Key findings, conclusions and learnings of the implementation of Action-Research Projects under the EU-funded “Farmers Organisations Leading Research & Innovation on agroecology for sustainable food systems” (FORI) by Laurent DIETSCH, Agronomist from the Experimentation and Research Group: Development and Localized Actions (GERDAL : Groupe d’Expérimentation et de Recherche : Développement et Actions Localisées) 
  • Specific insights into the experience of implementing Action-Research under the FORI Programme in Burundi by Annick SEZIBERA, Executive Secretary of the Confederation of Associations of Agricultural Producers for Development (CAPAD) 
10 April 2025, 11:00-12:30 CET. Impact of Labour Shortages in the Fruits and Vegetables (F&V) industry
  • The 9th session of the OECD-COLEAD Fruit and Vegetables Industry Series
  • The session will be available in English and French.
  • The topic addresses the pressing challenge of labour shortages in the F&V industry, which can impede productivity growth, resilience, and sustainable development. The session will bring together experts, industry leaders, to discuss labour market trends and their impact on the F&V industry, strategies to attract and retain skilled workers, and the role of technology and automation in addressing workforce challenges.
  • Programme: English and French / Biodata: English and French / Registration: Link
  • FAO is hosting a series of webinars on the application of innovative extension models to enhance the uptake and scaling of technology and innovation in agriculture.
  • These webinars will facilitate knowledge and experience sharing on innovative extension approaches within pluralistic extension and advisory services (EAS) in Africa. 
  • Discussions will highlight how communication approaches, media, and extension models can support the scaling of agricultural innovations. 
10 April 2025, 3:00-4:00 pm CEST. Information Session on the Course on the Conscious Food Systems Leadership Programme
  • offered by CoFSA in partnership with the Inner Green Deal. 
  • CoFSA, is an initiative convened by UNDP 
  • Information Session: April 10th, 2025, 3:00-4:00 pm CEST. Register here.
  • Application Deadline: April 20th, 2025. Apply here.
  • The programme’s overall purpose is to develop a more holistic approach to addressing the food system crisis through consciousness-based practices and the cultivation of inner capacities, following the Inner Development Goals (IDG) Framework with its 5 dimensions (being, thinking, relating, collaborating, acting). 
10 April 2025. Foresight for policy innovation: Navigating complexity and uncertainty in food systems

17 April 2025 15:30 – 17:00 (CEST) - Hybrid. The right to food in Rome 
  • This dialogue will convene FAO, IFAD, and WFP staff, national and local authorities, civil society, academia, and city representatives to discuss key aspects of urban and peri-urban food governance through the lens of the right to food. 
23 April 2025. Online briefing of the new Report from the Global Panel on Agriculture and Food Systems for Nutrition: 'Building Resilience and Enhancing Nutrition in Africa's Food Systems’

24 - 25 April 2025. GLF Forests 2025: Defining the Next Decade of Action

29 AprIL 2025. Prague, Czech Republic. EU CAP Network brokerage event 'Partnering for innovation with impact in agriculture and rural areas'

21 - 22 May 2025. Agrinatura General Assembly and Conference 2025
  • Agrinatura organizes every year it’s General Assembly hosted by the member of each institution to discuss further activities, new projects, further initiatives, incorporation of new members, presentation of working groups in a way to continue working in the achievement of Agrinatura goals for sustainable agriculture.
  • Annual General Assembly its two-day event, the first day its related to organizational matters and the second day its followed by a workshop focus on topics related to research in agriculture development.
  • Location: University of Ghent, Belgium
20 - 23 May 2025. Kunming, Yunnan, China. International Agrobiodiversity Congress (IAC)

27 - 29 May 2025. 4:30pm - May 29 · 10:30pm CEST. 5th global conference of the SFS Programme. by One Planet

9 and 12 June 2025. Agrigento (Sicily), Italy 1st International Congress on Mediterranean Agroecology

9 and 13 June 2025. African Conference on Agricultural Technologies (ACAT) Kigali, Rwanda

10 - 12 September 2025. Hybrid - Bonn, Germany. Tropentag 2025

16 - 19 September 2025. 5th All Africa Postharvest Congress and Exhibition (5th AAPHCE)
  • The theme for this year's congress is 'Securing the Harvest: Postharvest Management Solutions for Resilient and Inclusive Food Systems.'
  • This biennial pan-African event is a critical platform for discussing and showcasing innovative solutions in postharvest management

23 - 25 September 2025. Uppsala, Sweden. Agri4D 2025: Nurturing regenerative food systems in a changing climate - three specific sub-themes: 
  1. Empowering the Next Generation of Food Systems Leaders 
  2. Transforming Food Systems: Innovation and Implementation 
  3. Equity, Justice, and Resilience2 to 4 October 2025 Malmö Agroecology Europe Forum
7 - 9 October 2025. Nairobi. 10th AfriLabs Annual Gathering: "Africa’s Innovation Future: Policy, Partnerships, and Progres

4th–6th Nov 2025. 12th ANAPRI Stakeholders Conference |

10 - 21 November 2025. Belém, Brazil. UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 30)

26 - 28 November 2025. Wageningen, Netherlands. Food System Microbiomes International conference

30 September - 02 October 2025. University of Helsinki. Science for Sustainability 2025
at No comments:

Community of Practice on Agroecology Entrepreneurship in East Africa

Community of Practice on Agroecology Entrepreneurship in East Africa

Agroecological Entrepreneurship is growing in East Africa as one of the ways of promoting agroecology – many entrepreneurs are starting and looking to grow businesses that enable farmers to practice agroecology. 

Many entities including funders, investors and BDS providers are also gaining an interest in enabling these agroecological entrepreneurs to build successful businesses, but there is still a lot to learn, and many are learning independently.

Some of the questions encountered include: 
  • How to measure the impact of an Agroecological Enterprise; How to build a successful agroecology enterprise business model; 
  • The journey of growth of an agroecological enterprise; 
  • How enterprises can support the transition to Agroecology (their own and those of farmers); 
  • How to structure an Agroecological Enterprise to successfully support agroecology farmers; 
  • How to structure investment into an Agroecological enterprise; and many others.

The Neycha Accelerator & Fund, has interacted with multiple players in Agroecological Entrepreneurship, It is an opportunity to amplify and accelerate learning in Agroecological Entrepreneurship by bringing heads and resources together under one umbrella, to build common knowledge, insights, materials and tools around Agroecological Entrepreneurship, in turn accelerating East Africa’s transition towards Agroecology. 

The Neycha Accelerator & Fund (Neycha) is a joint initiative of Biovision and SHONA combining both expertise in agroecology (Biovision) and business advisory (SHONA) to identify and support AEEs to grow their impact in East Africa. Our mission is to advance food system innovators and entrepreneurs who are working toward a more regenerative and agroecological food production and contributing to a more holistic and circular agrifood economy in East Africa.

Key Publications
Neycha Accelerator & Fund, (2024) A Market Study of Agroecology Enterprises in Kenya and Uganda, #32 pp

Agroecological Enterprises have a clear agroecological passion, impact and vision. They could be operating anywhere along the agriculture value chain (see below) and are supporting farmers to transition to agroecology or are promoting and operating in line with the 13 Principles of Agroecology, including:
  • Organic input supply and pre-production support for farmers practising agroecology.
  • Entrepreneurial farms practising agroecology beyond a single farm.
  • Purchasing, trading and marketing agroecological produce.
  • Processing agroecological produce.
  • Retailing agroecological produce and products e.g supermarkets, other types of markets.
  • Promoting consumption of agroecological produce and products e.g restaurants, hotels, etc.

at No comments:
Labels: , ,

Sunday, April 6, 2025

2nd Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference (EAAC25)

25 - 28 March 2025. The 2nd Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference (EAAC25) Transforming Food Systems for Responsible Production, Consumption and Social Wellbeing
  • Pathways for enhancing production, productivity and sustainability of agri-food systems with agroecological interventions
  • Food security, nutrition, and health nexus: Soil health and farmer managed seed systems
  • Movements for empowerment of women and youth in agroecology
  • Trade, markets and economy: Implications for agroecological transitions
  • Institutional and policy opportunities for unlocking potential of agroecology in agri-food systems
  • Financing mechanisms for agroecological pathways and transitions
In a move to propel the growing global movement for agroecology, Kenya hosted the second Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference (EAAC) in Nairobi. The EAAC conference motivated stakeholders to invest in interventions that transform current unsustainable food systems by transitioning towards agroecology and more environmentally friendly solutions with long-term vision and planning. It has attracted over 820 participants from 43 countries across Africa and beyond, drawn from representatives of governments, the private sector, farmers’ associations, NGOs, academia, research institutions, investors, and development partners.

Organised by Biovision Africa Trust, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, and over twenty partners, the conference harnessed the potential of agroecology in transforming and sustaining resilient agri-food systems. Themed ‘Strengthening Agri-Food System Transformation for Resilience, Sustainability and Socioeconomic Development’, the event promoted sustainable organic farming systems to improve food security, agricultural productivity and livelihoods across Africa while safeguarding the environment.

Extracts of the programme


25/03 Productivity, Production, Soil Health and Farmer Managed Seeds 

  • Markus Arbenz, Project Leader/Senior Consultant, Department of International Cooperation – FiBL Switzerland: “Evidence for Narratives” and other contributions of Research for Agroecology and Organic development in Africa 
  • Dr. Chrysantus Mbi Tanga, Senior Scientist, Head of Insects for Food, Feed and Other Uses (INSEFF) Program: Insect frass fertilizer innovations for better soil health and agri-food systems transformation in Africa 
  • Rémi Cluset, Agroecology advisor, FAO: Advancing agroecology with TAPE+: Tools for local and national policy action 

Panel Discussion
  1. Markus Arbenz, FIBL 
  2. Dr. Chrysantus Mbi Tanga, icipe 
  3. Remi Cluset, FAO 
  4. Dr. Sarah Olembo, Chair, ASBPP EOA FMSS Cluster 
  5. Daniel Wanjama, Executive Director, Seed Savers Network

25/03 Policy and Institutional Arrangements 

  • Dr. David Amudavi, Executive Director, Biovision Africa Trust
  • Dr. Hans R. Herren, Board Chair and President (2005-) Millennium Institute USA: Political and policy changes for a fair, healthy and regenerative food system
  • Dr. Ronnie Brathwaite, Senior Agriculture Officer (Plant Production and Protection Division) Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Agroecology in a changing geopolitical climate 
  • Dr. Janet Edeme, Head Rural Economy Division & Acting Head of Agriculture and Food Security Division, African Union Commission, Addis, Ethiopia: Unlocking the Potential of Agroecology in Africa: Creating synergies with the AU CAADP Kampala Declaration
Panel Discussions
  1. Hon. Mutahi Kagwe, EGH Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Livestock  Development Kenya
  2. Hon. Fred Bwino, State Minister for Agriculture, Uganda
  3. Dr. Hans R. Herren, Millennium Institute
  4. Dr. Ronnie Brathwaite, FAO
  5. Mr. Bodo Immink, Country Director GIZ
 

25/03 Side event 1: The Contribution of the Knowledge Center for Organic Agriculture Initiative to the Agroecology Sector in Africa: The Past, Present and the Future. 

Organizers:  Knowledge Centre for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Africa (KCOA), 
and Knowledge Hub for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Eastern Africa (KHEA).
  1. Moderator: Francis Nsanga, KHEA Project Manager 
  2. Keynote Presentation; by Florian Peloschek, Advisor Digital Knowledge Platform, KCOA.
  3. KHEA Phase II Impact; by Lennox Ouma, KHEA M&E officer 
  4. KHEA Flagship documentary on Impact; by Pamela Magino, KHEA Communications Officer 
  5. Sharon Bundi - KHEA Organic Farmer & Multiplier (Kenya)
  6. Julius Echodu - KHEA Multiplier (Uganda)
  7. Emmanuel Paul Nyange - KHEA Multiplier (Tanzania)
  8. Albert Nkundabagenzi - KHEA Multiplier (Rwanda)
  9. RAOELINARIVO Holy Harinoro - KHEA Multiplier (Madagascar)

25/03 Side event 5: Growing Resilient Futures in Africa: Advancing Nature-Positive Agrifood Systems Transformation 

This event unpacked the concept of Nature Positive Solutions, focusing on its potential for 
enabling agrifood systems transformation towards improved inclusiveness, sustainability, and 
resilience. 
  • Dr. Saskia Marijnissen, Senior Policy Advisor, African Union
  • Ms. Nancy Rapando, WWF Leader for Africa's Food systems Initiative
  • Dr. Ronnie Brathwaite, Senior Agriculture Officer, FAO
  • Dr. Carlo Fadda, CGIAR; and a farmer representative. 

26/03 Women, Youth & Political Economy of Climate Change


  • Ms Monica Yator,  Founder and Executive Director, Indigenous Women and Girls Initiative (IWGI): Scaling Up Agroecology in ASAL Areas: Challenges and Opportunities for Indigenous Pastoralist Communities in Baringo
  • Ms Pramila Mwibanda, TEJATI Youth Ambassador: Catalyzing Transformative Agroecology by Harnessing Youth Potential
  • Ms. Nancy Rapando,  WWF Africa Food Lead: Agroecology, Advancing the Food, Climate and Nature Nexus

Panel
  • Dr. Million Belay, General Coordinator AFSA
  • Dr. Beatrice Kiage, APHRC
  • Monica Yator, Founder and Executive Director, Indigenous Women and Girls Initiative (IWGI)
  • Ms Pramila Mwibanda, TEJATI
  • Ms. Nancy Rapando, WWF Africa Food Lead
  • Lise Chantal, National Coordinator, Rwanda Organic Agriculture Movement (ROAM)
  • Hannington Owegi, Secretary General (SG) PELUM Association Regional Secretariat

26/03 Parallel Session 1: Measuring the Impact of Agroecology: Productivity, Profitability, and Sustainability

  • Ms. Carolyne Wangungu (presenting author), Dr. Lukas Pawera, Mr. Augustine Wafula, Dr. Srinivasan Ramasamy:   A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Conventional and Agroecological Approaches for Production of Traditional African Vegetables in Murang’a County, Kenya
  • Ms. Celia del Campo Aragones (presenting author), Mr. Chanyalew Aweke, Mr. Joe Alpuerto, Mr. Remi Cluset, Mr. Daniel Bordi, Mr. Zelalem Behailu Teklewold:  Assessing the Impact of the Ecological Organic Agriculture Project in Walmera Woreda, Ethiopia: A Multi-Dimensional Approach through the TAPE tool
  • Mr. David Bautze (presenting author), Ms. Anouk Unternährer, Dr. Anne Muriuki, Dr. Edward Karanja, Dr. Milka Kiboi:   Productivity and profitability of organic and conventional systems: Results from two Kenyan long-term trials
  • Ms. Friederike Schilling (presenting author), Dr. Miriam Romero, Dr. Amy Faye, Dr. Bibiana Betancur-Corredor, Dr. Heike Baumüller, Prof. Joachim von Braun:  Productivity effects of agroecological practices in Africa: insights from a systematic review and meta-analysis


26/03 Parallel Session 3: Agroecological Pest Management for Sustainable Crop Protection

  • Dr. Simon Boni, Dr. Stephen Othim, Mr. Nickson Mlowe, Ms. Judith Assenga, Mr. Raphael Mallogo, Dr. Fekadu Dinssa, Dr. Srinivasan Ramasamy (presenting author), Dr. Komivi Akutse, Dr. Daniel Mutyambai:  Management of diamondback moth and aphids in cabbage using push-pull technology in Tanzania
  • Evanson Rigan Omuse (presenting author), Dr. Honest Machekano, Dr. Daniel Mutyambai, Dr. Subramanian Sevgan, Dr. Frank Chidawanyika: Effects of intensified push-pull technology and frass-based soil amendment on pest damage, striga weed, carbon sequestration and farm productivity
  • Ms. Bretor Mutua (presenting author), Dr. Edward Karanja, Dr. Thomas Dubois, Dr. Daniel Mutyambai: : Intercropping kale (Brassica oleraceae var. acephala) with Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) reduces key pests and increases parasitism, reducing pesticides use.
  • Mr. Lawrence Ochieng: Host Plant Resistance, Botanical Insecticides and Field Margin Vegetation for Integrated Pest Management: A case of Aphids in Dolichos Beans

27/03 Parallel Session 5: Special Session on Pesticides in Agriculture


  1. Alice Blondel, SwedWatch CEO: Corporate responsibility in the context of hazardous pesticides
  2. Eustace Kiarii, CEO KOAN: Pesticides advocacy in Kenya and the gains achieved
  3. Dr. Ngaruiya, Pest Control Produce Board (PCPB): Initiatives by PCPB to remove HHPS from the market
  4. Christine Gatwiri, Project Coordinator Route to Food Initiative (RTFI) HBS
  5. Dr. Monica Nderitu, Agroforestry Network: Agroforestry and Agroecology – sustainable and safe alternatives to pesticides for increased biodiversity and human health Brief on Agroforestry and Agroecology as sustainable – Launch of the Agroforestry Policy Brief
Resource:


This brief outlines how agroforestry and agroecology can serve as sustainable alternatives to synthetic pesticides, and simultaneously build resilient agri-ecosystems, combat climate change, and empower smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities to adapt to the challenges of a changing climate.

Example:
A tree normally grown as a wind breaker or planted as a fence by Kenyan farmers now offers a new opportunity for biopesticide production.
  • Croton megalocarpus, a tree native to East Africa, holds potential as a source of natural pesticides and organic fertilizers, with its nuts and husks containing compounds that can be used for pest control and soil enrichment. 
  • The croton tree, a non-food crop known as Msenefu in Kiswahili, Omkinduli in Luhya, Mukinduri in Gikuyu , Kelelwet in Kipsigis and Lemaruguet, Masineitel, Mkigara, Mlalai, Muhande and Musine in various other parts of Kenya, is promising equal opportunities in the quantity and quality of biofuel, according to biofuel experts. 
  • Croton megalocarpus grows naturally in various ecological zones- from the Coast to the highlands of central Kenya and the dry lands of the North Rift. In these regions, the annual rainfall ranges between 400mm and 1,400mm.


IBMA-Kenya is a non-profit brainchild of the four leading producers of biological control products in Kenya (The Real IPM (K) Ltd, Koppert Biologicals, Dudutech Integrated Pest Management Ltd, and Elephant Vert Kenya, KAPI Limited) primarily to promote and advocate the use of biologicals in integrated crop protection, organic farming, and public hygiene.
  • Born from the larger IBMA Global (head office in Brussels), IBMA-Kenya endeavors to provide localized awareness and advocacy on the importance of Integrated Pest Management as well as increased adoption of Biocontrol products in the horticultural space.
  • It represents manufacturers, distributors, and growers of Biocontrol solutions and products that are environmentally safe, and harnessed, or harvested from nature.
  • Green biocontrol tools protect the crops and environment presently and most importantly in the future, and should be the first measure considered for preventative and curative control of pests and diseases sustainably.

KAPI Limited is primarily a formulator and manufacturer of insecticidal products for the home, for agriculture, for livestock and for public health.

Founded in 1964 and based in Nakuru Kenya, KAPI Limited employs over 200 people both at the factory and out in the field. 

Contact: Pepe SHAW, Marketing KAPI Limited

Example: Ecoffee R&D initiative (With Private companies) 

At the initiative of CIRAD, the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development, and supported by Agropolis Fondation, a large private-public consortium has been created to tackle this pressing issue in coffee. 

Alongside CIRAD, seven roasters (illycaffè, Jacobs Douwe Egberts, Lavazza Group, Nestlé, Paulig, Starbucks Corporation and Tchibo), three green coffee suppliers (ECOM, Mercon and Olam) and three research organizations in Brazil (Universidade Federal de Viçosa), Nicaragua (the NicaFrance Foundation) and Vietnam (the Western Highlands Agriculture & Forestry Science Institute) have joined the initiative. 

Period: From September 2020 to September 2026
Location: Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Vietnam
Budget managed by CIRAD: 1 900 000 EUR
Funding: Ecom, Illy, Jacobs Douwe Egberts (JDE), Luigi Lavazza, PAULIG FINLAND LTD, Nestlé, Starbucks, Tchibo

The Ecoffee R&D initiative promotes a smooth and planned transition to zero pesticides in coffee production
  • A multi-stakeholder initiative, including farmers, based on collective intelligence, open to all reasonable innovations
  • Learning from existing solutions in coffee & other crops to reach impact in the short term, while simultaneously developing new innovations
  • A thorough monitoring of the environmental, economical and social impact of the outputs
  • An international experimental network evaluating & developing pesticide-saving methods 

27/03 OFFICIAL CLOSING

  • Convenor: Markus Arbenz, Project Leader/Senior Consultant, Department of International Cooperation – FiBL Switzerland
  • Call to Action:  Ms. Venancia Wambua, Head of Programmes (EOA&KCOA), Biovision Africa Trust 
  • Hon. Fred Bwino, State Minister for Agriculture, Uganda
  • Keynote Address by Chief Guest: Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh Paul, Principal Secretary, The State Department of Agriculture
  • Closing Remarks – Dr. David Amudavi, Executive Director, Biovision Africa Trust
  • Vote of Thanks – Mr. Alex Mutungi, EOA Continental Secretariat Coordinator, Biovision Africa Trust

at No comments:
Labels: , ,

Thursday, April 3, 2025

AR4D Funding Opportunities for Africa - April 2025

Agriculture Fisheries Forestry

3-year Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

2025-04-15

The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) invites applications for a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in tropical animal behavior. The annual stipend is US$62 thousand, and the annual research and travel budget is up to US$13 thousand per year. Fellows will be based in Panama and will have the opportunity to conduct comparative research throughout the tropics. Please note that applicants must find a STRI scientific staff member who will serve as their main host/advisor before submitting a final application. Applications have to be submitted by 15 April 2025.

Global Food Innovation Awards 2025

2025-04-24

The Arrell Food Institute invites nominations for the 2025 Arrell Global Food Innovation Awards. The Award recognizes global excellence in food innovation and community impact through research and food security. Individuals or teams of any country are eligible for nomination. Two winners will receive C$100 thousand each, plus up to C$25 thousand for travel and accommodation to participate in the Arrell Food Summit. Nominations may come from private companies, academic institutions, governmental units, charitable foundations, and not-for-profit organizations. Nominations are accepted until 24 April 2025.

Prize for Master Thesis in Food Security

2025-04-30

The Fiat Panis Foundation makes awards for university thesis and dissertation research in themes of agriculture, ecology, and natural resources, with a focus on food security in developing countries. The Hans Hartwig Ruthenberg Graduate Award is €7.5 thousand in support of qualified young scientists by honoring their excellent master thesis in the field of food security. The deadline for submissions (German, English) is 30 April 2025.

John Allwright Fellowship

2025-04-30

The Australian Center for International Agricultural Research awards the John Allwright Fellowship for university postgraduate studies in Australia. The aim of the Fellowship is to strengthen scientific research capability and institutional links in ACIAR partner countries to undertake high-quality and impactful research. In the 2026 intake round, research dedicated to addressing climate change, climate adaptation or strengthening resilience to climate change impacts is encouraged. Each awardee pursues research at an Australian tertiary institution relevant to the project in which the awardee is engaged. The deadline for applications is 30 April 2025.

Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife

Prize for Nature Conservation

2025-04-15

The Iris Prize celebrates and supports young people accelerating action to protect and restore nature. The Iris Project awards three grants each year: US$5,000 for ages 14-24 awarded for a new idea; US$10 thousand for ages 16-24 awarded for an existing project; US$15 thousand for ages 16-24 awarded for an established project. Application is open to individuals, teams and organizations from all around the world. Applications are open until 15 April 2025.

Transmitters for Wildlife Conservation

2025-04-15

Holohil Systems Ltd. supplies radio-tracking equipment and related services for wildlife research and management. Holohil manages a grant program to offer transmitters at a reduced or no cost for projects focusing on wildlife species of especially high research and/or conservation value. Holohil will contribute up to C$2,500 toward the purchase of transmitters. Holohil will pay all shipping charges. Eligibility to apply for the grants extends to conservation professionals and researchers anywhere in the world. Support is awarded four times a year. The application deadlines are 15 January, 15 April, 15 July, and 15 October each year.


Freshwater Storytelling

2025-04-22

The National Geographic Society invites proposals from storytellers to create and disseminate content that raises public awareness about sustainable freshwater use. The initiative seeks to illuminate global freshwater challenges, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, Western Asia, and the Middle East. Applicants may request between US$20 thousand to US$100 thousand per grant. The deadline for applications is 22 April 2025.

International Green Gown Awards

2025-04-28

The International Green Gown Awards recognize exceptional climate sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges. Students and universities are invited to submit solutions to the climate and environmental crisis. The Awards are open to any university or college across the world. The deadline for applications is 28 April 2025.

Postgraduate Research Award

2025-04-30

The Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI) offers students access to the Australian Museum’s collections and research programs. AMRI focuses on environmental challenges such as climate change impacts on biodiversity, the detection and biology of pest species, and understanding what constitutes and influences effective biodiversity conservation. The postgraduate award is open to students enrolled in any postgraduate qualification program relevant to the AMRI research priorities. AMRI provides financial support of $2,500. Applications for funding may be submitted until 30 April 2025.

Small Grants for Conservation in Africa

2025-04-30

The Jana Robeyst Trust Fund provides financial resources to small non-profit organizations and individuals to carry out conservation research in Sub-Saharan Africa. Priority will be given to projects related to the conservation of forest elephants. Applicants can be based anywhere in the world. Funding is €1,500 per applicant. Application deadlines for small conservation grants are 30 April, 31 August and 31 December each year.

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

2025-04-30

The International Herpetological Symposium (IHS) provides financial assistance to individuals or organizations conducting herpetological research, conservation, and education. Grants are up to US$1,000. Eligibility extends to any individual from the herpetological community from around the world. Students are encouraged to apply. Proposals are due by 30 April of each year.

Crosscutting


Project Support for NGOs

2025-04-10

The Alstom Foundation invites project proposals from NGOs in eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region, South Asia, Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa (a full list of eligible countries is provided in the call for proposals). The Foundation supports a range of activities, including support for water supply and sanitation; renewable energy; reforestation; waste management; ecotourism; and environmental awareness campaigns. All projects must be submitted together with an Alstom employee acting in the role of the Project Promoter. (Note: The Secretariat of the Alstom Foundation may offer support in finding a promoter. In this case, projects have to be submitted no later than 20 March 2025.) The regular submission deadline is 10 April 2025.

Scholarships for International Students 2025

2025-04-10

Xiamen University (XMU) in coastal Southeast China supports several doctoral, master's, and undergraduate programs in English. Subject areas at XMU include marine affairs, environmental sciences and ecology, life sciences, and many others. The university's scholarship programs include several for international students. The application deadline is 10 April 2025.

Krill Fishing and Marine Ecosystem

2025-04-11

The Antarctic Wildlife Research Fund (AWR) calls for proposals from scientific researchers who can aid in determining the impact of the krill fishing industry on the Antarctic marine ecosystem. Funding will range from US$25 thousand to US$90 thousand per project. The deadline for applications is 11 April 2025.

Masterclass Water-Energy-Food

2025-04-13

The Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus Training 2025 provides capacity-building for professionals working at the intersection of water, energy, and food security. The program is open to policymakers, researchers, and practitioners globally. A limited number of full and partial sponsorships are available to financially needy candidates who meet the criteria to participate in the WEF Nexus in-person Advanced School. The application deadline is 13 April 2025.

Training for Social Entrepreneurs

2025-04-13

The Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship accepts applications for an accelerator program focused on social enterprises working on women’s economic power and/or climate resilience. The program is designed for established social entrepreneurs who directly serve people living in poverty who suffer disproportionately from climate change. Climate resilience falls into one of the following three categories: sustainable energy, availability of sustainable management of water and sanitation, and climate-smart agriculture. Non-profit, for-profit, or hybrid social enterprises that have a clear commitment to an earned revenue model with the potential for scale are all encouraged to apply. There are no geographical limitations. The application deadline is 13 April 2025.

Micro-Grants

2025-04-14

The Roots Micro-Grants Program supports youth-led projects to empower voices from the Global South to advocate for climate justice. The program provides grants of up to US$10 thousand to initiatives that prioritize climate justice and social equity. The program will provide grants for between 10-15 grassroots youth-led initiatives, with a focus on groups in Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. The group/organization does not need to be legally registered in order to be eligible to apply. The application deadline is 14 April 2025.

Environmental Justice in Technology

2025-04-15

The Environmental Justice in Technology (EJIT) Fellowship is a remote, 12-week program supporting projects at the intersection of environmental justice and technology. The fellowship provides a US$3,000 stipend for four fellows dedicating approximately 20 hours per week. Fellows will engage in one of four focus areas: digital zine publishing, climate misinformation research, educational material development, or creative cultural interventions. Applicants should have experience in environmental justice through community work, study, or lived experience. The application deadline is 15 April 2025.

African Women in Biotechnology

2025-04-15

The ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme supports South African women researchers holding a PhD degree, in Biotechnology or a related discipline who will perform hypothesis-driven research. Proposed research projects must fall within one of the ICGEB areas of research: Infectious Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Bioinformatics, Plant Systems Biology, Biopesticides and Virology. The closing date for applications is 15 April 2025.

Solve Global Challenges

2025-04-17

The “Solve” program at MIT announces six global challenges in 2025, inviting anyone in the world to propose solutions to them. The 2025 challenges include one on climate adaptation. MIT Resilient Ecosystems Challenge seeks technology-based solutions that help communities restore, sustain, and benefit from resilient ecosystems. The winner receives a US$10 thousand grant. Additional prizes (from US$75 thousand to US$150 thousand) for solutions addressing specific challenges are available. The deadline for project draft submission is 17 April 2025.

COAL Prize 2025

2025-04-20

The COAL Prize 2025 invites artists to submit projects dedicated to fresh water. The Prize is open to artists from all over the world. The winner receives €12 thousand to support artwork in progress and benefits from an (optional) residence run by the Museum of Hunting and Nature at the Belval Domaine. In parallel, a call for projects is open for the COAL Student Prize – Culture & Diversity for students of schools in the artistic and cultural field. The application deadline is 20 April 2025.

Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program

2025-04-21

The U.S. Embassy in Cameroon seeks qualified candidates for the 2025-2026 Fulbright African Research Scholar Program. Awards of 3 to 9 months are offered for African university faculty or research institute professionals to conduct research in any academic discipline at a U.S. academic or research institution. The deadline for applications is 21 April 2025.

Accelerator Program

2025-04-25

The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for its Ray of Hope Accelerator. The institute supports high-impact nature-inspired startups from all over the globe. Each selected startup receives US$15 thousand in non-dilutive funding and over US$50 thousand worth of in-kind services. The program includes tailored coaching, investor introductions, and a 4-day Nature Retreat. The application deadline is 25 April 2025.

Fellowship Program PhDs

2025-04-25

The King's Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP) PhD Fellowships provide funding for academic staff and professionals from Commonwealth Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to pursue a PhD while remaining in their home country. Fellows receive joint supervision from a university in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the UK and benefit from financial support, including a GBP 30 thousand stipend over six years, a GBP 12 thousand research grant, and tuition fee waivers for study visits. Applicants must be enrolled or about to enroll in a PhD in climate change, education, engineering, or health. The application deadline is 25 April 2025.

Fellowships 2025

2025-04-27

The Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans (POGO) supports capacity building in oceanography for individuals and institutions in developing countries. POGO’s Visiting Fellowships Program is open to scientists, technicians, graduate students (PhD), and post-doctoral fellows involved in oceanographic work. Priority is given to applicants in their early stages of career development. The fellowship offers the opportunity to visit other oceanographic centers for a short period of training on any aspect of oceanographic observations, analyses, and interpretation. The application deadline is 27 April 2025.

Sustainability Accelerator

2025-04-30

IBM accepts proposals for projects focused on sustainable consumption and production, driven by AI innovation. Selected participants will receive support over a two-year program, including access to IBM technologies, as well as technical mentorship and capacity-building workshops. The IBM Sustainability Accelerator is open to nonprofit and government organizations globally. The application deadline is 30 April 2025.

Collaborative Research Program

2025-04-30

The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) accepts proposals for the Collaborative Research Program (CRP), aimed at financing projects addressing original scientific problems. The program provides support for original research projects in basic life sciences, human healthcare, industrial and agricultural biotechnology, and bioenergy. The maximum annual contribution from ICGEB is €25 thousand. Applicants should hold positions at Universities or Research Institutes in ICGEB member states. The application deadline is 30 April 2025.

Scholarships to Participate in the One Young World Summit 2025

2025-04-30

The One Young World Summit brings together young talents (ages 18-30) from many nationalities to share solutions addressing the world’s pressing issues. To ensure that the most qualified young leaders participate in the Summit, regardless of their ability to pay, fully-funded scholarships are awarded. Each scholarship has its own deadlines and eligibility criteria, please check carefully. More scholarships will become available in the next couple of months.

Science Reporting Award

2025-04-30

The Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW) awards the Sharon Begley Science Reporting Award. The award recognizes the accomplishments of a mid-career science journalist. The winner receives US$20 thousand to undertake a significant reporting project. Candidates must be experienced journalists who have compiled a substantial body of work in science journalism. The deadline for submissions is 30 April 2025.

at No comments:
Labels:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)