Leveraging Effective Communication to expand Utilization of Underutilized Legumes for health, Nutrition and Environmental Sustainability

29 April 2026. 35th Academic Lecture Series. The Society for Underutilized Legumes (SUL) organised a webinar on "Leveraging Effective Communication to expand Utilization of Underutilized Legumes for health, Nutrition and Environmental Sustainability" Speaker : Lopez Katherine, Head of Communication, IITA.

This lecture focused on how effective communication can drive the adoption of underutilized legumes for improved nutrition, environmental sustainability, and food security. The keynote speaker, Katherine Lopez (IITA), emphasized that these crops—such as Bambara groundnut, pigeon pea, and African yam bean—are highly nutritious, climate-resilient, and locally adapted, yet remain underutilized. The central issue is not a lack of research or innovation, but rather low adoption due to weak communication, limited awareness, poor value chains, and fragmented knowledge systems.

A key message from the lecture is that communication is the missing link between research and impact. Successful agricultural innovations (e.g., Vitamin A maize, Aflasafe, and digital tools like Akilimo) demonstrate that strong communication—through campaigns, storytelling, and farmer engagement—can significantly increase adoption. The speaker highlighted the need to reframe underutilized legumes from being perceived as “poor man’s food” to desirable, healthy, and climate-smart options. Strategies such as using digital platforms, social media, cooking demonstrations, and influencer engagement were identified as critical for driving behavior change and increasing visibility.

The discussion also underscored systemic challenges and solutions. Participants highlighted issues such as limited access to improved seeds, weak extension services, and insufficient policy support. Proposed solutions included strengthening seed systems, building value chains, engaging grassroots actors, and adopting community-based scaling approaches. The overall conclusion was that underutilized legumes are “future foods” with immense potential, but unlocking this potential requires integrated communication strategies, stronger partnerships, and coordinated action across research, policy, and practice.

Related: Highlight: Main brands producing Bambara groundnut value-added products

Aonyx Foods - Bambara Groundnut and the Agrifood Technology Station (ATS) of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) has used the Bambara Groundnut as a raw material to create several value-added products. These include dairy-substitutes, baked-goods, meat-substitutes, and beverages.


Download here the Aonyx Bambara groundnut product range potential

which includes several gluten-, lactose- and cholesterol-free value-added products. These include dairy substitutes, baked goods, meat substitutes and beverages. These products have the potential to be rapidly scaled up to provide niche and alternative products that are nutritious and marketable.

CPUT is looking to create a manufacturing business, vertically integrating with other sectors in the country. It is currently looking for investors to partner with us to take this business opportunity forward

Green ERA hub: future priorities for sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and innovation

21-22 April 2026. Brussels. Meeting of the Green Era Hub (GEH) on widening and outreach

The Green ERA-Hub (GEH) Coordination and Support Action under Horizon Europe (HEU), brings together all relevant ongoing and self-sustaining networks; (including ERA-Nets and European Joint Programme Cofund) in the Agri-food and biotechnolgy sector. 

The Hub thus represents a large part of Europe's national ministries, funders and research institutes within these themes. The networks provide transnational co-programming of national research priorities and funding, organising joint scientific research, knowledge valorisation and science-policy dialogue activities.

The objective of the GEH is to maintain, use and strengthen the established knowledge, networks and resources, and to play a bridging role in the setting up of partnerships under Horizon Europe. Specific ambitions include developing a strategic roadmap, strengthening expertise in the themes, organising new calls for proposals and maintaining, sharing and strengthening knowledge in joint transnational research programming. Explicitly, the GEH wants to contribute to preparations for HEU partnerships.

As part of the GEH, the partners of the work package on “Widening and outreach” submitted 

a document of recommendations to the EC to expand geographical collaboration with Africa, 

the Mediterranean, Eastern European countries, and the Balkans in Horizon Europe partnerships. 

This final meeting aimed to disseminate these recommendations more widely and, above all, to 

go further and propose avenues for implementation. 

Main speakers:

1. FutureFoods – Claude Yven 
2. Agroecology – Stephane Bellon  
3. Agriculture of Data – Johannes Pfeiffer  
4. European Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare  – Mahur Turan 
5. Prima – Ali Rhouma 
6. BioEAST – Vanda Fuzesi 
7. Belmont Forum - Laurent Bernadou 
8. CEA First - Bernard Mallet 

UPRISE: a Horizon Europe collaboration translating research into practical, scalable solutions for safer and more resilient food systems

15 April 2026. The AU-EU High Level Policy Dialogue on Science, Technology and Innovation, hosted by the European Commission, serves as a platform for regular exchanges on research and innovation policy. It aims to formulate and implement long-term priorities to strengthen Africa-Europe cooperation.

The first 2026 edition of the AU-EU High Level Policy Dialogue newsletter highlights key developments in African Union - European Union research and innovation cooperation, from policy to priority areas of interventions, such as agriculture, health, climate action and innovative technologies.

UP-RISE was featured as an example of demonstrating innovative solutions in food safety, sharing the release of the 10 business cases and practice abstracts showcasing successful agri-entrepreneurial solutions; an example of how Horizon Europe collaboration is translating research into practical, scalable solutions for safer and more resilient food systems.

Links

• The AU-EU High Level Policy Dialogue on Science, Technology and Innovation - Newsletter 10 - March 2026
• Horizon Europe Projects Driving Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture

UPRISE Bootcamp in Kenya July 2026

UP-RISE has selected ten business cases involving agri-entrepreneurs active in both the informal and formal markets of Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa. 

• These cases form part of the development and implementation of co-created solutions across the five traditional fermented food value chains. The call for the selection of the 10 fermented food processors was awarded on 7 December 2024 and will run until the end of UP-RISE (31 December 2027).
• The 10 selected agripreneurs from Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa gathered for the very first time in Nairobi.
• Beyond the roadmap, the group hit the ground identifying key learning goals and sharing real world challenges in certification, packaging, management and communications. 
• Upcoming program journey: Baseline & Interviews, Specialised webinar series, Individual mentoring, In-Person Bootcamp July 2026

Up-rise Consortium Partners

The consortium is built up on 13 international partners bringing together an interdisciplinary approach and a well-framed gender dimension to maximise the impact.



Ghent University
Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche
Centre de Cooperation Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement
Wageningen University
Federal University of Technology Minna
Université Abomey-Calavi
University of Nangui Abrogoua
University of Nairobi
L’Institut Agro Montpellier
University of Johannesburg
University of Montpellier
African Union Development Agency: New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD)
ADS Insight

Stakeholder Consultation: amaranth as Kenya’s priority opportunity crop

21-24 April 2026. Kisumu, Kenya. Stakeholder consultation workshop in Kenya organised by the German BOLDER program with the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT. 

Stakeholders came together for a two-day validation workshop on the amaranth value chain and food environment. The workshop created space to align evidence with experience, bringing together voices from across research, policy, and practice 

Discussions went beyond validation. They focused on what it will take to unlock the full potential of amaranth as a nutritious, climate-resilient crop. From consumption patterns to market dynamics, stakeholders explored practical pathways to scale impact and strengthen local food systems.

Supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through KfW Development Bank and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ireland, this work continues to build momentum around underutilized crops that can drive nutrition, resilience, and livelihoods.

For the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, this validation is not as the end of research, but as the beginning of action.

This workshop was a follow-up to 18–22 August 2025. Nairobi. Finger millet and amaranth were selected as Kenya’s priority “opportunity crops” during the two-day National Stakeholder Consultation under the Power of Diversity Funding Facility (PDFF).

The crops also hold huge market potential. While their consumption has traditionally been low, mostly limited to rural households and older generations, this is now changing. In urban areas, health-conscious consumers are increasingly embracing nutrient-rich alternatives, driven by the rise of lifestyle diseases and growing awareness of the benefits of indigenous foods. As a result, amaranth and finger millet are gradually making their way into supermarkets, health stores, and restaurant menus, signaling a broader shift toward healthier eating habits.

Resources:

A new Crop Trust policy brief presents a strategic framework for integrating opportunity crops into African food systems through foresight-driven planning and multi-stakeholder collaboration. 

Drawing on pilot workshops in Nigeria, Kenya, and Zambia, the brief shows how the Power Of Diversity Funding Facility supports inclusive decision-making to prioritize crops that offer resilience, nutrition and livelihood benefits.

A new Crop Trust policy brief presents a strategic framework for integrating opportunity crops into African food systems through foresight-driven planning and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Drawing on pilot workshops in Nigeria, Kenya, and Zambia, the brief shows how the hashtag#PowerOfDiversity Funding Facility supports inclusive decision-making to prioritize crops that offer resilience, nutrition and livelihood benefits.

Global Crop Conservation and Use Metrics: Amaranth

This report provides an up-to-date overview of the global status of ex situ conservation of genetic resources of amaranth and its wild relatives, including key metrics on: 

• global statistics on crop production and availability in food supplies; 
• the identity and composition of genebank collections; 
• the Multilateral System (MLS) status of accessions in these collections; 
• storage, regeneration, and safety duplication status; 
• documentation, information systems, and research resources; 
• germplasm distribution; 
• varietal registrations and releases; and 
• crop networks and partnerships.

Crop Trust, Alliance Bioversity & CIAT (2026) Scoping Review Report: Assessing Finger millet food systems in Kenya. Power of Diversity Funding Facility Prepared by: Consolata Musita/Wendy Kimonye, 52 p.

• Despite growing interest in neglected and underutilized species (NUS) for strengthening sustainable and inclusive food systems, evidence on finger millet in Kenya remains fragmented across disciplines, value chain stages, and food system domains. 
• This scoping review synthesizes existing literature on finger millet in Kenya using a food systems lens to assess how the crop is positioned across the value chain, the extent to which gender and governance dimensions are addressed, and where critical evidence gaps remain. 

Background:

Crop Trust launched (19/03/2025) the Power of Diversity Funding Facility (PDFF). This
transformative multi-donor funded initiative will promote the use of so-called opportunity crops across Africa, Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean. Initially, the PDFF will focus on 14 high-potential opportunity crops in seven countries,: Colombia, Kenya, India, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Additional funding can extend the project’s reach to more countries, driving a shift towards resilient and sustainable agrifood systems worldwide.

AR4D Funding Opportunities for Africa : May 2026

 

Agriculture Fisheries Forestry

World Food Prize Foundation

World Food Prize 2026

2026-05-01

The World Food Prize Foundation invites nominations for the annual World Food Prize. The World Food Prize (US$250 thousand) recognizes an individual or individuals who have made outstanding achievements to enhance the world’s food production and its distribution to those most in need. Fields of achievement include soil and land; plant and animal science; food science and technology; rural development; water and the environment; natural resource conservation; poverty elimination; and many others. The deadline for nominations is 01 May 2026.

SVG Ventures

Global Impact Challenge 2026

2026-05-15

The Global Impact Challenge is a global competition for early-stage startups aimed at discovering breakthrough technologies that advance sustainable and resilient agrifood systems. Focusing on critical pillars such as soil health, water management, food waste reduction, and decarbonization, the challenge offers finalists the opportunity to secure up to US$1 million in investment from SVG Ventures. Beyond financial support, participants benefit from expert pitch coaching, a dedicated exhibition booth at the Global Impact Summit in Silicon Valley (October 2026). The application window for this cycle closes on 15 May 2026.

Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences

International Awards for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026

2026-05-15

The Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan make research awards in agriculture. Up to three young agricultural researchers with outstanding research proposals in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and related themes will receive US$5 thousand each to further their research. Applicants must be nationals of a developing country, and belong to a non-Japanese research institute or a non-Japanese university. Candidates need to be younger than age 40 to be eligible. The deadline for applications is 15 May 2026.

Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife

IUCN-Netherlands

Land Acquisition for Conservation

2026-05-01

The World Conservation Union in the Netherlands (IUCN-Netherlands) provides grants up to €85 thousand for the purchase and protection of threatened wildlife habitats and vulnerable ecosystems in Asia, Asia-Pacific countries, Africa, and Latin America. The grants are to qualified and experienced local non-profit conservation organizations. Local conservation NGOs and CSOs are eligible for this program and are invited to submit their proposals. The deadline for applications is 01 May 2026.

Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund

Photo and Video Contest

2026-05-04

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites submissions for its 2026 Photo and Video Contest to showcase the impact of biodiversity conservation efforts within its priority hotspots. This competition is open to employees and volunteers of current or former CEPF grantee organizations who are at least 18 years old. Participants are encouraged to submit high-quality images and short videos that document project activities, local communities, and the unique wildlife found in the regions where they work. The deadline for submissions is 04 May 2026.

UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program

Young Scientist Awards 2026

2026-05-07

The UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme offers the Young Scientists Awards to support early-career researchers conducting interdisciplinary studies on ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable development. The program prioritizes research carried out in biosphere reserves and projects that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Eligible applicants must be 35 years or younger and must have their applications endorsed by their National MAB Committee, which can nominate up to two candidates per year. Individual research grants are awarded up to a maximum of US$5,000 to cover project-related costs for a two-year period. The deadline for applications is 07 May 2026.

Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund

Guinean Forests of West Africa Large Grants

2026-05-11

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites letters of inquiry for large grants to support biodiversity conservation in the Guinean Forests of West Africa hotspot. This call is open to civil society organizations operating in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Liberia, and São Tomé and Príncipe. Projects must align with specific investment priorities related to species conservation and the management of priority sites. Grant amounts range from US$50 thousand to US$250 thousand. Applicants are encouraged to review the regional ecosystem profile and consult with the Regional Implementation Team before submitting their proposals.The deadline for letters of inquiry is 11 May 2026.

Save Our Seas Foundation

Keystone Grants 2026

2026-05-13

The Save Our Seas Foundation funds and supports marine and ocean research, conservation, and education projects worldwide. Projects have to focus on charismatic threatened wildlife and their habitats, with a particular concern for marine chondrichthyan species (sharks, rays, skates, sawfishes, and chimaeras). The usual project duration is limited to three years with a grant average of US$25 thousand per year. The next application period (Stage I) is 13 May 2026.

Wildlife Acoustics

Bio-Acoustics Product Grants

2026-05-15

Wildlife Acoustics aims to advance animal biology research, habitat monitoring and environmental conservation through bio-acoustics recording technology. The Wildlife Acoustics Scientific Product Grant Program offers US$4 thousand of product-in-kind grants to biologists, researchers, conservationists, and students who work for charitable, educational, and other tax-exempt organizations. Wildlife Acoustics provides additional support (up to US$1,000) for travel to present findings. There are no geographical limitations. Applications are evaluated quarterly with deadlines on 15 February, 15 May, 15 August 2026.

Morris Animal Foundation

Veterinary Student Scholar Program

2026-05-20

The Morris Animal Foundation supports research on animal health and welfare, including wildlife/exotics. The Foundation provides veterinary students with the opportunity to become involved in mentored research that advances the health and/or welfare of companion animals and wildlife exotics. The Veterinary Student Scholars program awards stipends up to US$5 thousand to veterinary students. The program is open to currently enrolled veterinary students from all around the world. Applications are due 20 May 2026.

People’s Trust for Endangered Species

Conservation Insight Grants

2026-05-28

The People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) provides Conservation Insight Grants to support scientific research and field action aimed at preserving endangered species worldwide. Applications are welcomed from scientific researchers and conservationists based within NGOs or university research departments, with a strong preference for local project leaders working in their own countries. Eligible projects must be located in the UK, UK overseas territories, or any country not classified by the World Bank as high-income. The program offers grants between £3,000 and £10,000 per year for projects lasting up to two years, totaling a maximum of £20,000. Please note that PTES does not fund projects focused on bird species. The deadline for stage one pre-applications is 28 May 2026.

Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Graduate Researchers Award 2026

2026-05-29

The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) invites nominations for its annual award recognizing master’s and PhD students who use biodiversity data in innovative research. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a graduate program and be citizens of a GBIF participant country or studying at an institution within one. The program provides two prizes of €5,000 each for research that demonstrates discovery in biodiversity informatics, such as taxonomy, ecology, or biogeography. The final deadline to submit nominations is 29 May 2026.

UNESCO

Visual Storytelling Competition

2026-05-31

UNESCO invites young people to participate in a visual storytelling competition “Capture the Future: Global Youth Storytelling Initiative for People and Nature”. The program seeks original photography and video submissions from individuals aged 18 to 35 from all countries. Participants should submit visual stories about the relationship between people and nature in UNESCO biosphere reserves. All winners will receive a smartphone designed for high-quality photography and an invitation to join an intensive visual storytelling training camp. The deadline for submissions is 31 May 2026.

Global Environmental Education Partnership

Youth Innovation Challenge 2026

2026-05-31

The Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC) invites applicants from 15 to 30 years of age to propose innovative solutions to protect marine resources and support people of all ages to be engaged stewards for marine conservation. Global Environmental Education Partnership seeks solutions that are innovative, feasible, and informed by research. Three solutions will be awarded a US$1000 prize. The deadline to submit proposals is 31 May 2026.

Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund

Species Conservation Grants

2026-05-31

The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund provides targeted grants to support on-the-ground conservation initiatives for the world’s most threatened species. This global program is open to individual conservationists and organizations working to protect any species of plant, animal, or fungi, with a particular focus on those classified as endangered or data deficient. While the fund primarily supports field-based projects, it does not specify a strict limit for grant amounts; however, typical awards are small grants up to US$25 thousand. Applications are reviewed in three annual cycles, with the next submission windows closing on 31 May 2026, 15 October 2026, and 31 January 2027.

Crosscutting

Oppenheimer Generations Foundation

JWO Research Grant

2026-05-01

The Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant supports early-career scientists who conduct impactful research that will provide solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing problems. The proposed research should be focused on the intersection between biodiversity and the economy; environmental tipping points; pollution and impact on the environment; or the impact of basic sciences on sustainable development. A grant of US$150 thousand will support a research project or program for up to three years. Applicants must have strong links to an African academic institution, research institution, government institution, NGO, or for-profit organization. The application deadline is 01 May 2026.

Swiss Re Foundation

Changemakers Africa

2026-05-01

The Swiss Re Foundation invites applications for the 2026 Changemakers Africa Incubation Program. This online program is designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs across Africa who are developing innovative solutions in healthcare or climate resilience. Eligible applicants must be based in Africa and commit to 6–8 hours of weekly participation. Participants have the chance to pitch their ventures at the final Demo Day for seed funding of up to US$15 thousand. The deadline to apply is 01 May 2026.

Earth Journalism Network

Biodiversity Story Grants 2026

2026-05-01

The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is offering story grants to support journalists in producing in-depth reporting on the global biodiversity crisis. The program focuses on highlighting environmental threats and innovative conservation solutions in low- and middle-income countries. Applications are open to early-career and experienced journalists and media practitioners across print, online, TV, and radio platforms. The program will award 5 to 10 grants, typically ranging from €1,000 to €2,000, and selected grantees will also receive professional mentorship. The deadline for applications is 01 May 2026.

Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans

Fellowships 2026

2026-05-01

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 01 May 2026.

Institute of International Education

Ocean Futures Fellowship

2026-05-03

The Institute of International Education and OceanX invite applications for the Ocean Futures Fellowship to support the next generation of professionals addressing global ocean challenges. This six-month, full-time remote program is open to individuals at least 21 years old who hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and have full professional proficiency in English. Fellows can apply for one of six specialized roles: AI, digital correspondence, digital asset archives, immersive media, marketing and communications, or partnerships. Participants receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the fellowship and may have the opportunity to travel aboard the OceanXplorer vessel. The deadline for applications is 03 May 2026.

World Trade Organization

Young Professionals Program

2026-05-06

The World Bank Group invites applications for the Young Professionals Program as a starting point for a career at the World Bank. The program is designed for individuals skilled in areas such as agriculture, natural resources, and many others. Applicants should hold a PhD or master’s degree and relevant work experience; be fluent in English; and meet other criteria relevant to experience, skills, and age. Every year, around 40 applicants are accepted into the program. The closing date for applications is 06 May 2026.

World Academy of Sciences

TWAS-CSIR Postdoctoral Fellowships in India

2026-05-06

India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) offers postdoctoral fellowships to young scientists from developing countries (other than India) to pursue postdoctoral research at CSIR’s laboratories and institutes. The duration of the fellowships is six to twelve months. Subject areas range across the physical and natural sciences, including agricultural sciences. CSIR will provide a monthly stipend to cover living costs, food, and health insurance. The application deadline is 06 May 2026.

Global Landscapes Forum

Photography Awards

2026-05-10

The Global Landscapes Forum seeks professional or amateur photographers who show their perspective on the beauty and richness of the African continent. Photographers from all over the world can apply for the GLF Africa 2022 Photo Competition. The competition offers small cash prizes US$400 (1st place), US$300 (2nd place) and US$200 (popular vote). The GLF Africa Photo Competition is open to anyone aged 18 or above. Photos have to be submitted by 10 May 2022.

Coimbra Group of Universities

Scholarship Program for Sub-Saharan Africa

2026-05-10

The Coimbra Group offers short-term research grants to early-career scholars from higher education institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. The program enables researchers to visit a participating European university for one to three months to further their research and develop academic collaborations. Applicants must be staff members at a Sub-Saharan African university. Funding amounts vary by host university, with many providing monthly stipends ranging from €750 to €1,500, often supplemented by travel allowances or accommodation. The deadline for applications for the 2026/2027 academic year is 10 May 2026.

Orange Telecom

Orange Social Venture Prize 2026

2026-05-10

The Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) supports entrepreneurs using technology to drive social and environmental change across Africa and the Middle East. Orange invites tech-based startups and individuals to apply if their projects address local needs in fields such as health, education, agriculture, or sustainable development. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and based in one of the 17 participating countries, including Botswana, Egypt, Morocco, and Senegal. The competition features a national stage followed by an international grand prix, where three winners receive prizes of €25 thousand, €15 thousand, and €10 thousand respectively, alongside an additional €20 thousand International Women’s Prize for projects supporting women’s empowerment. The deadline for applications is 10 May 2026.

Okayama City

Education for Sustainable Development

2026-05-14

The Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Okayama Award rewards outstanding education for sustainable development practices in local communities around the world. The award aims to support the organizations carrying out ESD activities and promote the concept to local communities globally through showcasing their initiatives. Two projects will be selected to receive an award of US$3 thousand each. One representative of the winning projects will be invited to the Award Ceremony in Okayama (Japan). Organizations based in any country are eligible to apply. The deadline for applications is 14 May 2026.

L’Oreal and UNESCO

Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa

2026-05-15

The Fondation L’Oréal and UNESCO invite applications for the For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Programme to support young women researchers across the region. This program is open to female PhD students and post-doctoral researchers who are citizens of one of the 49 Sub-Saharan African countries and are conducting research there. Eligible fields include formal and life sciences, environmental and physical sciences, and engineering and technological sciences. The program will award 30 grants of €10 thousand to doctoral students and eight grants of €15 thousand to post-doctoral researchers, alongside leadership and communication training. The deadline for applications is 15 May 2026.

Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement

Nominations 2027

2026-05-15

The Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement grants US$250 thousand to recognize exceptional accomplishments in environmental science, energy, or medicine. The Tyler Prize can be awarded to living individuals or public or private institutions anywhere in the world. Several past prize winners have been distinguished in scientific and technical areas such as the global nitrogen cycle, global biodiversity assessments, wastewater treatment in developing countries, and others relevant to the link between environment and development. The closing date for nominations is 15 May 2026.

United Nations

Action Awards for Sustainable Development Goals

2026-05-17

The UN SDG Action Awards aim to support action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mobilizers, storytellers, campaigners, connectors, visualizers, and creatives fighting for sustainable development can apply. The Awards are open to individuals, organizations, governments, foundations, or private sector leaders worldwide. While the program does not award direct cash grants, nine finalists receive a fully funded trip to Rome, Italy, for a multi-day program of coaching, networking, and capacity building, followed by a televised awards ceremony. The deadline for submissions is 17 May 2026.

iF International Forum Design GmbH

Social Impact Prize

2026-05-20

The iF Social Impact Prize aims to publish and support design projects that contribute to solving urgent challenges and help to improve living conditions in the developing world. Solutions should already be established and help to solve well-known issues in any category of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The best projects will share a cash prize of €100 thousand in total. Eligibility extends to non-profit organizations, companies, and foundations (student concepts will not be accepted). Social projects can be submitted until 20 May 2026.

Fondation Yves Rocher

Photography Award, Environment and the Planet 2026

2026-05-20

The Yves Rocher Foundation's Photography Award is awarded to a professional photographer who wishes to make a journalistic study of issues relating to the environment, humanity's relationship with the planet, or the core challenges to sustainability. Eligibility extends to professional photojournalists who can write and speak in French or English. The winner will receive an award of €8 thousand. The closing date for applications is 20 May 2026.

Seeding Labs

Scientific Equipment for Research and Education

2026-05-22

Seeding Labs welcomes applications to participate in Instrumental Access. The program makes high-quality laboratory equipment and supplies more affordable to university departments in low- and middle-income countries. Seeding Labs receives donated equipment from a variety of sources, including research institutions and manufacturers. Applicants submit online requests for items included in the Seeding Labs equipment inventory. Items are mainly for biology and chemistry. The average value of the items included in a shipment, based on the secondary (used) market, is generally in the range of US$100 thousand. The recipient organizations are charged a fee (based on their country's income level) for program administration, equipment warehousing, equipment packing, and ocean freight. The next application deadlines are 13 February and 22 May 2026.

Learning for Nature

Assisted Natural Regeneration Practitioner Training Course 2026

2026-05-25

The United Nations Development Programme’s Learning for Nature platform offers a free eight-week online course to train ecosystem restoration practitioners in assisted natural regeneration (ANR) techniques. Developed in collaboration with the Society for Ecological Restoration and the ANR Alliance, the program provides practical skills for planning, implementing, and monitoring cost-effective forest restoration projects. The course is open to individuals and organizations worldwide, including conservation professionals, community leaders, and students. Participants who complete the weekly quizzes and surveys receive a digital certificate of completion. The course runs from 01 June to 24 July 2026, and enrollment is currently open.

Public Interest Registry

.ORG Impact Awards

2026-05-27

Nominations are now open for the .ORG Impact Awards. The global awards program recognizes individuals and organizations for the impact they have made in their communities. The award will recognize an organization or individual that works to combat the increased threats to the environment, or that has made significant contributions and innovations in the fight to end hunger or alleviate poverty, among other categories. The winner of the year receives US$40 thousand. Winners in their respective categories receive US$10 thousand each. The nomination deadline is 27 May 2026.

World Bank

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

2026-05-29

The JJ/WBGSP Scholarship Program provides scholarships to professionals from developing countries who are applying to a master's degree program in a development-related topic. Applicants must first apply for admission to one or more of the Partner Master’s Degree Programs to be eligible for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients receive travel allowance; tuition for the graduate program; basic medical insurance; and a monthly subsistence allowance to cover all living expenses (accommodations, food, etc., including books). The call has to applications windows, with deadlines on 27 February 2026 (Window #1) and 29 May 2026 (Window #2).

Beit Trust

Support for Community and Conservation Projects

2026-05-31

The Beit Trust supports projects for health, education, welfare, and the environment in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. Themes include wildlife conservation. Additionally, the Trust’s interests in community welfare include drinking water and irrigation water. Grants do not normally exceed £50 thousand. Applications should be submitted by 31 May 2026.

Skål International

Sustainable Tourism Awards 2026

2026-05-31

Skål International announces the call for submission to its 2025 Sustainable Tourism Awards. The idea is to enhance visibility and get recognition of outstanding performance in terms of sustainable and responsible tourism from all over the world. Companies, NGOs, government agencies, and educational institutions worldwide are welcome to submit an entry in one of nine available categories, including ‘Countryside and Biodiversity’ and ‘Marine and Coastal’. Applications close on 31 May 2026. 

Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership Showcase: Exploring technologies and lessons learnt

The Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership UK-Brazil-Africa (running from July 2024 to March 2026) brought together innovative people and organisations to promote climate-smart agriculture in Africa. The Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership: UK-Brazil-Africa is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and delivered by Innovate UK.

This pilot programme built collaborations and enable knowledge sharing between the UK, Brazil and Africa (Ghana and Nigeria) to develop technologies and practices that promote climate-smart agriculture in Ghana and Nigeria.

The Partnership has funded:

• 17 Innovation Award projects, bringing together trilateral partners to explore innovative technologies and practices
• 13 Travel Grants building relationships between project partners
• 12 Scoping Projects, exploring key topics for future collaboration

* Based on the assessment of this previous (triangular) call, another call will be launched in spring 2026.

17 Innovation Award projects

1. Climate proofing food production through aquaponics
2. Large scale biochar production in Ghana
3. Building collaboration to address heat stress in tropical livestock
4. Building collaborative research partnerships in fish breeding, health and welfare management in Nigeria
5. Dynamic realtime monitoring reporting and verification system for enabling climate-smart agricultural practices across Africa (CarbonXtras)
6. Banalytic, early warning system to combat black sigatoka in banana plantations
7. CottonCycle: Transforming Brazilian cotton by-products into climate-smart aquafeeds for tilapia farming in Nigeria
8. Harnessing data integration for precision health in climate-smart cattle systems
9. Developing microbial inoculants: Information sharing between Brazil and Nigeria
10. UK-Brazil-Ghana Partnership for cassava disease prevention
11. EcoSmart monitoring: Optimising biodegradable polymer dispensers for climate-smart insect pest management and sustainable agriculture in West Africa
12. HunT SOIL: Harvest Sun Twice by Solar pOwered Irrigated Land
13. Improving biocontrol efficacy with natural products for western flower thrips control
14. Improving cassava yields and soil health with microbial stimulants
15. Microbiome monitoring to enhance Ghanaian tilapia farming
16. Co-creating a climate-resilient african grasslands: The multispecies swards approach
17. MyUbuntu - Leadway - Brazil: Travel grant application
18. Development of innovative metal oxide nanoparticles to enhance waterlogging tolerance in crops
19. Optimising biochar for soil fertility improvement and climate-smart agriculture among smallholder farmers in Nigeria
20. Climate-Smart maize initiative: Boosting productivity and sustainability in Ghana with high-impact R-Leaf® technology
21. SeedSure: Enhancing seed storage reliability and germination assurance through smart technologies

Bambara groundnut: a “complete food,” containing all essential amino acids

Posted 20 April 2026. The reel highlights Bambara groundnut as a powerful yet underutilized African crop with exceptional nutritional value. It emphasizes that Bambara groundnut is a “complete food,” containing all essential amino acids, making it comparable to animal protein sources. The video frames it as a traditional crop that has long supported rural communities but remains largely overlooked in modern food systems. It also focuses on the crop’s remarkable resilience, particularly its ability to grow in poor soils and withstand drought conditions where other staples fail. This positions Bambara groundnut as a key candidate for climate-smart agriculture, especially in regions facing increasing climate variability. 

The reel presents it as a practical, locally adapted solution for strengthening food security across sub-Saharan Africa. A key part of the reel’s narrative is historical: during the colonial period, agricultural systems were reshaped to favor export-oriented crops like peanut, which displaced indigenous crops such as Bambara groundnut. This shift prioritized economic value for colonial markets over local nutrition and resilience. 

All 9 essential amino acids. Survives droughts that kill every other crop. Feeds millions across sub-Saharan Africa.

The video suggests that a similar pattern persists today, with global value chains promoting crops like soybean, often sidelining traditional, locally adapted species. Finally, the message ties into a broader call to rediscover and invest in “forgotten foods.” By showcasing Bambara groundnut’s benefits and its historical marginalization, the reel encourages renewed attention from researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs.

 

Related:

• Funding Underutilized Legumes Research: Industry Collaboration 
• The contribution of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) for sustainable agrifood systems transformation

Info session RUFORUM Integrated Aqua-Agriculture (IAA) online course

17 April 2026. Info session RUFORUM Integrated Aqua-Agriculture (IAA) online course.

The Agroecology and IAA course was developed by partners of the Potentials of Agroecological Practices in East Africa with a focus on Circular Water-Energy-Nutrient Systems (PRAECTICE) project https://praectice.eu/. The course is hosted at the RUFORUM E-learning platform.

Target public:

• Aspiring to be or already an entrepreneur investing in agroecology and integrated agriculture-aquaculture?
• Studying agroecology and integrated agriculture-aquaculture
• An extension worker
• An agroecology or aquaculture university/college faculty
• A smallholder farmer engaged in agroecology and aquaculture?

Objective:

• Applying agroecological indicator frameworks to guide agroecological practice?
• Implementing integrated aqua-agriculture (IAA) and agroecological practice and principles in real-world interventions?
• Training others on how to deploy integrated aqua-agriculture (IAA) and agroecological principles and practices?
• Networking and building your professional and practice experience in agroecology and IAA?

Course content

Enroll into the course through this link https://elearning.ruforum.org/course/view.php?id=116 

1. Module 1: Introduction to Agroecology
• Lessons 1 - 5: Introduction to Agroecology
2. Module 2: Fundamentals of Integrated Aqua-Agriculture (IAA)
3. Module 3: Monitoring and Evaluation indicator frameworks in agroecology and IAA systems in East Africa
• Lessons 1- 8 : Monitoring and Evaluation indicator frameworks in agroecology and IAA systems in East Africa

Agroforestry and integrated pest management: the cacao sector in Côte d'Ivoire

16 April. Online. Agroforestry and integrated pest management: focus on CSSV in the cacao sector in Côte d'Ivoire

This session organised by EC/INTPA introduced agroforestry as a key agroecological practice that integrated trees with crops and livestock to deliver environmental, economic, and social benefits. It highlighted how agroforestry improved soil conservation, biodiversity, water quality, and carbon sequestration while diversifying farmer incomes and strengthening food security and resilience. The discussion then focused on cocoa systems in Côte d’Ivoire, where production had declined due to pests, diseases, and climate pressures, particularly the cocoa swollen shoot virus (CSSV). Researchers showed that plant diversification, shade trees, and barrier crops had reduced disease spread and improved resilience, while emphasizing the complexity of the disease system and the importance of ecological interactions in pest regulation.

Private sector experience demonstrated how agroforestry and assisted natural regeneration (ANR) had been implemented to address sustainability challenges in cocoa production. Barry Callebaut had shifted from distributing seedlings to promoting natural tree regeneration, finding that naturally regenerated trees performed better in growth, carbon storage, and survival rates. Their programs had combined farmer training, ecosystem service incentives, and landscape-level interventions such as barrier crops to manage CSSV. Early results had shown strong farmer adoption and cost efficiencies, while reinforcing the need for continuous engagement, appropriate species selection, and integration of research into practice.

At the policy level, the Coffee Cocoa Council had outlined a national strategy to scale agroforestry, structured around climate resilience, reforestation, income diversification, and coordination. Efforts had included large-scale seedling distribution, carbon finance initiatives, and programs to support rural entrepreneurship, particularly for youth and women. However, challenges had remained in harmonizing approaches, aligning with standards, ensuring effective monitoring, and scaling initiatives across millions of producers. The discussions concluded that collective action—especially through cooperatives—had been essential for landscape-level disease management and successful adoption of agroforestry practices, alongside stronger integration of research, policy, and field implementation.

• Contribution of Agroforestry to Integrated Pest Management (focus on CSSV) and the Cocoa4Future experience, by Régis Babin (CIRAD).

 

• Private sector-research collaboration: the example of assisted natural regeneration (ANR) in eastern Côte d’Ivoire: lessons learned and scaling-up prospects, by Barry Callebaut, the world’s leading manufacturer of chocolate and cocoa products.

 

• National stakeholders' vision of their collaboration with the private sector and the potential of agroforestry, by the Coffee Cocoa Council (CCC) or the Côte d'Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative 
  
  
• Implementation of the DeSIRA EU-funded “Strengthening Agroecological Transition & Agroforestry for Africa” (SATAF) Project: first lessons learned and insights following scoping missions in Tanzania, Mozambique, Uganda and Côte d’Ivoire, by the European Forest Institute. 
  
  The specific objectives of the SATAF) Project is to contribute to the agroecological and agroforestry transition in the cashew, cocoa and coffee sectors in West and East Africa by promoting the adoption of shared principles and sustainable practices.