Platform for African – European Partnership in Agricultural Research for Development

Thursday, July 2, 2026

CIRAWA Agroecology Conference


1–3 July 2026. 
Accra, Ghana. The CIRAWA Agroecology Conference – Agroecology and Nature-BasedSolutions for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa was structured around three thematic days that combined keynote addresses, scientific presentations, policy dialogues, workshops, poster sessions, and field visits. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, farmers, civil society organizations, development partners, and private-sector actors to discuss how
agroecology and nature-based solutions can accelerate sustainable food systems across Africa.

Conference Programme

The conference opened with three keynote addresses that framed the scientific and policy discussions on agroecology in Africa:

  • Keynote 1: The IUCN Global Framework for the Design, Verification and Scaling-up of Nature-based SolutionsInternational Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
  • Keynote 2: Harmonisation of Indigenous Knowledge and Transformative Education: Enabling Agroecology Transitions in AfricaUnited Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
  • Opening CeremonyAlex Percival Segbefia (picture), the Chief of Staff of the Vice President of Ghana

    Mr. Segbefia reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s agricultural sector through the promotion of agroecological practices as part of the country’s broader agricultural transformation agenda. He said Ghana must move away from agricultural systems that are no longer delivering the desired results and embrace approaches that support sustainable food systems and long-term agricultural resilience. [02/07 West Africa charts path towards sustainable food systems at CIRAWA Agroecology Conference]

  • Remarks from representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency of Ghana (EPA Ghana)International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the European Union (EU), the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF), the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), the Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Ghana (MoFA), the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology of Ghana (MESTI), the Minister of State for Climate Change, AMAATI Ltd., and other partners.
  • Keynote 3: The State and Potential of Agroecology in AfricaUniversity for Development Studies (UDS), Ghana

The first scientific sessions focused on two major themes:

  • Scientific Session 1: Nature-based SolutionsChair: CARTIF (Centro Tecnológico CARTIF, Spain)
  • Scientific Session 2: Agroecology TransitionsChair: Association pour le Développement des Populations du Mayo-Rey (ADPM), Cameroon

The second day 02/07 featured four keynote presentations followed by four thematic scientific sessions:

  • Keynote 4: Soil Health, Agro-Waste and CircularityDr. Aggrey Agumya, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)
  • Keynote 5: Indicators and Monitoring & EvaluationRaul Sanchez, CARTIF (Centro Tecnológico CARTIF, Spain); Discussants: Dr. Dileyini Lizza Diaz, University of Valladolid (UVA), Spain, and Prof. Charles Okyere, University of Ghana
  • Scientific Session 3: Soil Health, Agro-Waste and CircularityChair: Dr. Catherine Dembele, Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF); Discussant: Dr. Marina Paneque, University of Seville (USE), Spain
  • Scientific Session 4: Indicators and Monitoring & EvaluationChair: Jules Bayala, Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF); Discussant: Dr. Lamin Dibba, National Agricultural Research Institute of The Gambia (NARI)
  • Keynote 6: Agroecology TransitionsProf. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Chief Executive Officer, Environmental Protection Agency of Ghana (EPA Ghana)
  • Keynote 7: Policy, Upscaling and Gender: Agroecology & Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Food Systems at Scale in Africa – Critical Pathways to Adoption at ScaleDr. Moumini Savadogo, West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF)
  • Scientific Session 5: Agroecology TransitionsChair: Dr. Erin Anders, Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, University of Nebraska, USA; Discussant: Richard Appoh, World Vision (WV)
  • Scientific Session 6: Policy, Upscaling & GenderChair: Dr. Demba B. Jallow, National Agricultural Research Institute of The Gambia (NARI); Discussant: Dorcas Owusuaa Agyei, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

The final day 03/07 focused on policy dialogue and practical implementation:

  • Keynote 8: Policy, Governance and Way ForwardProf. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Chief Executive Officer, Environmental Protection Agency of Ghana (EPA Ghana).
  • Policy Briefs and Roundtable Policy DiscussionModerator: Dr. Jacques Somda; Panelists: Dr. Moumini Savadogo (West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development – CORAF), Dr. Marc Corbeels (Climate Adaptation and Mitigation through Nature-based Solutions – CANALLS), Prof. Osman Tahidu Damba (Secretary-General, Ghana Commission for UNESCO), and Prof. Olowole Fatunbi (Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa – FARA).

The conference concluded with five parallel workshops:

  • Workshop 1: Unlocking the Potential of Partnerships for Agroecology in Sub-Saharan Africa – Organised by the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA).
  • Workshop 2: Measuring What Matters: Participatory Monitoring for Farmers and Agroecology Practitioners Using the TRANSITIONS Metrics Meta FrameworkGloria Kukurije Adeyiga, Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG).
  • Workshop 3: CIRAWA DSS: An Agroecological Decision-Support System for Soil-Based Crop Planning in West AfricaNicolas Minary and Nabil Boukala, Landfiles.
  • Workshop 4: Operationalising Agroecology at Scale: Insights from the Regreening Africa Project in Ghana – Organised by the Regreening Africa Project.
  • Workshop 5: Agroecological Farming and Biocircular Training Programme (AFBTP) – Organised by the Wuntira Agri Foundation (WAF).

Background:

The EU-funded project CIRAWA has been collaborating with farmers and stakeholders in four West African countries (Cape Verde, Ghana, Senegal, and The Gambia) since 2023, to develop and share agroecological and nature-based solutions that promote sustainable and resilient farming. The conference also receive support from other EU projects such as CANALLS, PrAEctiCe, and NATAE.

ProjectFull project nameImplementation periodEU budgetConsortium
CIRAWAAgro-ecological Strategies for Resilient Farming in West AfricaNovember 2022 – October 2026 (48 months)€7.5 million14 partners from 9 countries, coordinated by Fundación CARTIF (Spain). The consortium includes CARTIF, CIRAD, University for Development Studies (Ghana), FARA, University of Cape Verde, INIDA (Cape Verde), ISRA (Senegal), NARI (The Gambia), CIFOR-ICRAF, ADPM (Cameroon), and other European and African research and innovation organizations.
CANALLSClimate Adaptation through Nature-based Solutions: Agroecology Living Labs in Sub-Saharan AfricaNovember 2022 – October 2026 (48 months)Approximately €8 million18 partners from Europe and Africa, coordinated by CIRAD (France). Partners include IITA, University of Hohenheim, NIBIO, Rikolto, IRAD, ISABU, Rwanda Agriculture Board, African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), FARA and several national research organizations in Central and Eastern Africa.
PrAEctiCePotentials of Agroecological Practices in East Africa with a Focus on Circular Water-Energy-Nutrient SystemsNovember 2022 – April 2026 (42 months)€6.9 million16 partners from 9 countries, coordinated by Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences (Germany). The consortium includes universities and research institutes from Germany, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Portugal, Sweden, Slovenia, Malta and Nigeria, working through Living Labs in East Africa.
NATAEFostering Agroecology Transition in North Africa through Multi-actor ApproachesNovember 2022 – October 2026 (48 months)€7.4 million23 partners from Europe and North Africa, coordinated by CIHEAM Montpellier (France). The consortium includes Wageningen University & Research, IUCN, ICARDA, CIHEAM Bari, CIHEAM Zaragoza, Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie (INAT), Institut National du Génie Rural, Eaux et Forêts (INGC), Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II (Morocco), and research institutes and NGOs from Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco.

Together, these four Horizon Europe projects represent a coordinated investment of approximately €30 million in agroecological research and innovation across West, Central, East and North Africa. They share a common emphasis on multi-actor innovation, Living Labs, nature-based solutions, knowledge co-creation, and evidence-based policy development, while each focuses on a distinct African region and agroecological context.

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

DialogueNEXT in Africa: Born To Feed the Future

30 June - 1 July 2026.
Nairobi, Kenya. Agricultural leaders, researchers, farmers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and investors gathered for the inaugural DialogueNEXT Africa, organized by the World Food Prize Foundation under the inspiring theme "Born to Feed the Future." 

DialogueNEXT in Africa came ahead of the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue to be held in Des Moines, Iowa, October 20–22, 2026.


The event explored how Africa can harness its scientific excellence, entrepreneurial talent and agricultural diversity to become a global leader in sustainable food production. Throughout the day, speakers emphasized that the continent's food systems transformation must be driven by African farmers, youth, women, researchers and innovators working together through strong regional and international partnerships.
"It is an honor to hold this conference in Africa, four decades after Dr. Borlaug made his first major visit to the continent in 1984. Borlaug came with a simple but powerful conviction: that science in the hands of farmers could defeat hunger. That mission is unfinished and more urgent than ever as Africa's food systems must feed a young, growing and increasingly urban population.” Mashal Husain (see picture), President, World Food Prize Foundation.

 "Hosting this conversation in Africa is not just symbolic, but necessary. This continent is home to some of the world's most dynamic agricultural systems and most resilient farmers, yet it remains chronically underinvested in. The challenges — climate shocks, fragile supply chains, growing populations — are real, but so are the solutions, which are increasingly being developed by African scientists, farmers and entrepreneurs. The insights that emerge from Nairobi will help shape the global agenda." Akinwumi Adesina,
2017 World Food Prize Laureate; Member, World Food Prize Foundation Council of Advisors; and Former President of the African Development Bank Group.

Agenda


The conference featured a series of high-level dialogues addressing the major drivers of agricultural
transformation. 


Farmer-Centred Innovation



The session on Farmer-Centred Innovation highlighted how research, extension services and digital technologies can better respond to the needs of smallholder farmers. 
  • Elizabeth Nsimadala, President of the Eastern Africa Farmers Federation (EAFF), stressed the importance of placing farmers at the centre of innovation
  • Canisius Kanangire, Executive Director of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), discussed the role of agricultural technologies in improving productivity. 
  • Andrew Mude, Principal Scientist at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), shared insights into strengthening resilience through innovative livestock systems. 

Technology and Digital Agriculture


Discussions on Technology and Digital Agriculture explored how digital tools, artificial intelligence, mechanization and precision agriculture can accelerate productivity and resilience. 
  • Leena Tripathi, Director of the Eastern Africa Hub of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), joined fellow experts in demonstrating how scientific research and biotechnology continue to expand opportunities for African farmers. 
  • Canisius Kanangire – African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF)

Women Feeding Africa

Another session on Women Feeding Africa celebrated the pivotal contribution of women across agricultural value chains
  • Doreen Irungu, Founder and CEO of Ustawi Afrika, highlighted the role of women entrepreneurs in transforming food systems.

Youth, entrepreneurship and innovation

The Agripreneurship and Youth Innovation dialogue showcased emerging African innovators and Top Agri-food Pioneers who are developing new business models for agriculture


Optimising Agricultural Regulations

Participants also examined how enabling regulatory frameworks and strategic investments can stimulate innovation and strengthen agricultural value chains.

DialogueNEXT Africa also underscored the importance of collaboration among governments, national agricultural research systems, CGIAR centres, regional organizations, the private sector and farmer organizations. The conference concluded that achieving resilient and nutritious food systems will require sustained investments in research and innovation, supportive policies, stronger public-private partnerships and the active participation of youth and women. 

Technical immersion visits

Following the conference, delegates participated in technical immersion visits hosted by leading agricultural innovation institutions,

Participants visited the Alliance's "Partners Day: Connecting Science, Community & Markets", where researchers, entrepreneurs and agrifood innovators demonstrated how agricultural research is translated into value-added products and market opportunities. The programme included networking with investors and policymakers and exhibitions of climate-smart innovations.

  • Hello Tractor Experience Center – Participants explored how IoT, asset finance, digital marketplaces and mechanization services are helping smallholder farmers access tractors and improve productivity through innovative business models. 
  • International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) – Delegates visited the MRGM Farmer Cooperative to learn how research, farmer-led innovation and circular use of rice straw are improving rice productivity, market access and livelihoods. 
  • International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) – Visitors toured ILRI's Nairobi campus, including its advanced bioscience laboratories and the Mazingira Centre, to see how CGIAR research is advancing livestock productivity, animal health and climate resilience.
  • CIMMYT – The immersion showcased climate-smart innovations for maize, wheat and dryland cropping systems and demonstrated how research partnerships translate scientific advances into practical solutions for farmers. 
  • WorldFish – Participants visited a science-supported fish farm to explore climate-resilient aquaculture, sustainable fish production, feed management and post-harvest innovations. 
  • International Potato Center (CIP) – The visit highlighted how research, youth entrepreneurship and partnerships are strengthening root and tuber crop value chains through quality seed systems, climate-smart production and digital advisory services. 
  • Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT – Through its "Partners Day:
    Connecting Science, Community & Markets,"
    the Alliance demonstrated how agricultural research is transformed into value-added products and market opportunities through collaboration with entrepreneurs. 
  • International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) – Delegates discovered insect-based innovations supporting One Health, sustainable food systems and circular bioeconomy solutions for agriculture and nutrition. 

Mugala Naturals: Organic food venture that is powering a climate-smart future had a stand at ICIPE stand to promote inclusion if cricket powder in Mainstresm processed nutritious climate resilient value chains.

These visits showcased how CGIAR research is being translated into practical solutions for farmers and policymakers across Africa.


Asia-Pacific Biopesticides Community of Practice (ABCoP) session


1 July 2026
. Asia-Pacific Biopesticides Community of Practice (ABCoP) session

This webinar focused on how nature-based pest management and biopesticides can strengthen climate-resilient agriculture across Asia and Africa, with particular attention to dryland farming systems and fragile mountain ecosystems. 

 participated in this online webinar.

As part of APAARI's monthly ABCoP series, the webinar brought together some 40 persons: researchers and development practitioners to share scientific advances, practical experiences, and regional partnerships that can accelerate the transition from synthetic pesticides towards biological alternatives. The session aligned with ABCoP's broader objective of promoting knowledge exchange, regulatory harmonization, innovation, and the wider adoption of biopesticides for sustainable agriculture and safe trade.
  • Jagdisha Jaba, Scientist & Lead- Entomology International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics(ICRISAT) India - “Advancing biopesticides for Dryland Crops: Present insights and future pathways in Asia & Africa”
  • Rajendra Dhakal Climate Resilient Analyst Livelihood International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) Nepal - Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Pest Management: Lessons from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Region.

The first presentation, "Advancing Biopesticides for Dryland Crops: Present Insights and Future Pathways in Asia & Africa," by Jagdisha Jaba (ICRISAT, India), examined the opportunities and challenges of deploying biopesticides in semi-arid and dryland cropping systems. The presentation highlighted recent research on biological crop protection for drought-prone agriculture, discussed constraints such as product efficacy, farmer adoption, regulatory frameworks, and commercialization, and explored future research priorities and cross-regional collaboration between Asia and Africa. Particular emphasis was placed on integrating biopesticides into broader integrated pest management (IPM) systems to improve resilience while reducing dependence on synthetic pesticides.

The second presentation, "Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Pest Management: Lessons from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Region," by Rajendra Dhakal (ICIMOD, Nepal), demonstrated how ecosystem-based approaches—including biodiversity conservation, ecological pest regulation, climate adaptation, and community-based natural resource management—can improve pest management in fragile mountain landscapes. Drawing on experiences from the HKH region, the session illustrated how nature-based solutions contribute simultaneously to climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental protection while strengthening local agricultural systems. It also highlighted the value of regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing across mountain countries facing similar climate and pest challenges.


NUS in Odisha: Strategies for Revival, Conservation, and Promotion

1 July 2026. "Forgotten Foods: Strategies for Revival, Conservation, and Promotion to Strengthen Nutritional Security and Climate Resilience in Odisha."
  • Traditional and underutilized foods such as millets, legumes, tubers, indigenous greens, and other local crop varieties are rich in nutrients, resilient to changing climatic conditions, and deeply embedded in our cultural heritage. Reviving these forgotten foods can play a significant role in enhancing nutrition, conserving agrobiodiversity, and strengthening sustainable food systems.
  • This webinar brought together 130 online participants: experts, researchers, practitioners, and community representatives to share experiences, innovations, and strategies for conserving, promoting, and scaling up forgotten foods.
The discussions focused on community-led conservation efforts, seed systems, nutritional and ecological significance of traditional foods, value addition, market opportunities, and pathways for wider adoption and policy support.
  • Importance of forgotten foods for nutrition and climate resilience.
  • Documentation and conservation of crop biodiversity.
  • Community-led seed systems and traditional knowledge.
  • Success stories and best practices from the field.
  • Vision and strategy for mainstreaming forgotten food initiatives.

The webinar invitation and concept note

  • Mr. Anshuman Das, Lead Expert - Agroecology and Food Systems, WHH - Challenges in promotion of landscape based farming systems with respect to forgotten foods - A comparative experience from Odisha and across India.
  • Padma Shri Sabarmatee, Secretary and Co Founder, Sambhav - Methodology for Germplasm Conservation & Varietal Mapping & its importance
  • Mr. Dinesh Balam, Head - Food Systems, AI and Regenerative Agriculture, ISB 
    Strategy and Vision for Reviving of Forgotten Foods

    Dinesh referred to GFAiR's South-South Forgotten Foods Consortium ([Collective Action]

  • Mrs. Bhagya Laxmi, Associate Director, WASSAN - Why ! Community led seed system for neglected crops
  • Dr. Oliver King, Director- Biodiversity, MSSRF - Success Stories: Community conservation & upscaling of Forgotten Food & Neglected Crops

    Oliver referred to the Manifesto on Forgotten Foods spearheaded by GFAR/GFAiR

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Webinars and events July 2026

1 July 2026.  Asia-Pacific Biopesticides Community of Practice (ABCoP) session 
1 July 2026."Forgotten Foods: Strategies for Revival, Conservation, and Promotion to Strengthen Nutritional Security and Climate Resilience in Odisha."
  •  11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (IST). 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM Central European Summer Time (CEST)
  • Traditional and underutilized foods such as millets, legumes, tubers, indigenous greens, and other local crop varieties are rich in nutrients, resilient to changing climatic conditions, and deeply embedded in our cultural heritage. Reviving these forgotten foods can play a significant role in enhancing nutrition, conserving agrobiodiversity, and strengthening sustainable food systems.
  • The discussions will focus on community-led conservation efforts, seed systems, nutritional and ecological significance of traditional foods, value addition, market opportunities, and pathways for wider adoption and policy support.
  • This webinar will bring together experts, researchers, practitioners, and community representatives to share experiences, innovations, and strategies for conserving, promoting, and scaling up forgotten foods.
  • Join Online or on YouTube Live
  • The webinar invitation and concept note
1-2 July 2026. Utrecht, the Netherlands. Land, Conflict, and Peace conference

1-3 July 2026 (Accra, Ghana). CIRAWA Agroecology and Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa Conference.
  • The EU-funded project CIRAWA has been collaborating with farmers and stakeholders in four West African countries (Cape Verde, Ghana, Senegal, and The Gambia) since 2023, to develop and share agroecological and nature-based solutions that promote sustainable and resilient farming.
7 July 2026. Empowering Youth and Women in Agrifood: Bridging Entrepreneurship and Job Creation for Sustainable Impact - Organizers: PAFO and COLEAD

8 July 2026. 8:00 - 9:00 AM, Brussels time (CET) Roots of resilience: How Farmers Organizations are reclaiming Indigenous knowledge and research to tackle breadfruit and banana value chains challenges in the Pacific and Philippine

8 - 10 July 2026. FONTAGRO Knowledge Week

9 July 2026. Leveraging Digital Solutions for Strengthening the Seed Systems in Africa

11 - 12 July 2026. Brussels. Festival Afrodisiac

15-17 July 2026 – Nairobi, Kenya. Africa Food Manufacturing Kenya & Eastern Africa

16 July 2026 – Nairobi, Kenya. Africa Food Awards

27–31 July 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria. 9th Africa Agriculture and Science Week AASW9 and the 10th FARA General Assembly

3 - 6 August 2026. Malaysia. SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY 2026,

4 - 8 August 2026. Cotonou, Benin World Social Forum 2026
  • After more than a decade, Africa welcomes the World Social Forum to Benin.
  • This 17th edition of the WSF reflects a strategic reading of the dynamics of struggles, resistances and alternative proposals carried by West African communities.
7-8 August 2026. African Food Research & Innovation Conference, online
  • The Role of Industry in Funding African Food Research Plenary
  • Winning Research Funding: Strategies for African Food Researchers
  • The Role of Banks and Investors in Funding African Food Research Plenary
  • The Role of International and Multilateral Organisations
  • The Role of Development Finance and Government-Backed Institutions
  • The Role of Academia in Advancing African Food Research
10-13 August 2026. Burgas, Bulgaria14th International Conference on Agriculture & Food

25 - 26 August 2026. Leuven, KU Leuven. Plant-Based Fermented Foods for Healthier and More Sustainable Diets - Health Farm Final Conference

31 August - 3 September 2026, Kigali, Rwanda. Africa Food Systems Forum 2026 Summit

8-10 September 2026, Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE. Agra Middle East 2026 (AgraME 2026)

11-12 September 2026. Accra. Phenomics in Plant Breeding
  • The International Plant Phenotyping Network (IPPN) is organizing a symposium in Accra – Ghana, incl a 2-day workshop for which participants can apply for full cover of travel, stay and symposium costs via this Novo Nordisk sponsored event: the Phenotyping Innovation Sprint
14-16 September 2026, Rome, Italy. Global Conference on Agriculture & Horticulture

16 to 18 September 2026 in Göttingen (Germany) and online. TROPENTAG 
  • under the theme 'Towards multi-functional agro-ecosystems promoting climate-resilient future'.
  • The call for workshops was open until 3 May 2026. 
15-17 September 2026 – Lagos, Nigeria Africa Food Manufacturing Nigeria & Western Africa

22–25 September 2026. Nairobi (Kenya). Smart Agriculture: Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Trade for a Climate-Challenged Africa.
  • The event invites papers and proposals on topics like climate-smart ag, agri-finance, digital tech, value chains, and gender/youth in agriculture - by African Association of Agricultural Economists (AAAE).
24–25 September, Brussels. EU AgRI 2040 Conference “Future-proofing EU Agri-Food through research and innovation”

October 2026. FAO’s World Food Forum (WFF) Youth Assembly
This is a year-round platform for youth engagement in agrifood systems. It includes ongoing virtual and thematic consultations throughout the year and typically culminates in activities around the flagship World Food Forum event in October.

19–23 October 2026. FAO HQ, Rome, Italy. CFS 54th Plenary Session

19-30 October 2026. Seventeenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity

27 October 2026, Addis Ababa. AU-EU High-Level Policy Dialogue on Science, Technology and Innovation

31 October 2026. International Conference on Agroforestry Systems for Climate Adaptation and Biodiversity (ICASCAAB-2026)
Focuses on agroforestry systems, climate adaptation, and biodiversity — a platform for researchers and practitioners to share developments in the field.

17 – 20 November 2026. 1st Eastern Africa Indigenous Seed Conference - EA-ISC 2026
  • Building farmer managed seed system community of practice (COP) For a Resilient EASTERN AFRICA Region.
  • Catholic university of Eastern Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
25 November 2026. Bari, Italy. AU-EU Innovation fair - focus on food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture

25-27 November 2026. Santiago, Chile. XI CONGRESSO LATINOAMERICANO DE AGROECOLOGIA

30 November - 3 December 2026 RUFORUM’s 22nd AGM
  • To be held in Zambia, hosted by the Government of Zambia and RUFORUM member universities in Zambia.
  • This AGM edition offers Zambia, the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), the rest of Africa, and partners an opportunity to discuss current development opportunities and challenges, and to co-create roadmaps for delivering solutions.

AR4D Funding Opportunities for Africa : July 2026

Agriculture Fisheries Forestry

Phosphorus Fellowship

2026-07-07

The African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) accepts applications for the Young African Phosphorus Fellowship. This program aims to support early-career scientists working in African National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems institutions or universities who are conducting innovative research on phosphorus management in African agro-ecosystems. APNI will award up to five fellowships of US$5,000 each. Applicants must be full-time scientists at an African NARES institution or university. The application deadline is 07 July 2026.

Youth Leadership Program

2026-07-13

The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub invites applications for the second cohort of its Youth Leadership Program to build a global network of emerging leaders driving food systems transformation. This two-year fellowship is open to individuals between 18 and 35 years old who are proficient in English and hold nationality in a low- or middle-income country, with particular emphasis on Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean. Applicants must demonstrate experience leading or contributing to initiatives in food systems, sustainable development, or climate action. The program provides comprehensive leadership development, peer mentorship, and direct exposure to global United Nations partners and expert networks. The deadline for applications is 13 July 2026.

Freezailah Fellowships 2026

2026-07-20

The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) makes grants through the Freezailah Fellowship Fund in support of capacity building. The grant can be used for training opportunities, demonstration tours, participation in conferences and workshops, preparation of technical papers, and post-graduate degrees. Grants up to US$10 thousand are in support of sustainable tropical forest management. Applicants are young and mid-career professionals in ITTO’s member countries; most grants are to individuals in developing countries. The next application deadline is 20 July 2026.

Gender Responsive Research for Optimized Women Fellowship

2026-07-24

African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) invites applications for its GROW Fellowship. This two-year, immersive non-residential program strengthens the leadership pipeline of women professionals working in plant breeding, livestock breeding, and related fields across Africa. Eligible applicants must be female citizens of any African country who hold at least a master's degree in plant or livestock breeding and possess a minimum of five years of experience in crop or livestock improvement research. Eligible candidates must also be affiliated with a university, national agricultural research institution, private company, or other relevant organization. The fellowship provides customized leadership, negotiation, and mentoring training, though specific monetary funding amounts are not disclosed. The deadline for applications is 24 July 2026.

Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife

Creating New Protected Areas

2026-07-01

The Rainforest Trust partners with local conservation organizations to create new protected areas and expand existing ones for Critically Endangered and Endangered species. The Initiative invites applications for conservation partnerships from nonprofit entities and NGOs for projects in tropical Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Applying organizations may submit proposals for either a land purchase or a protected area designation. Applications to create new protected areas are reviewed three times per year. The application deadlines are 01 July and 01 October 2026. Applications for less than US$250 thousand may be submitted on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Extra Grants for Biodiversity

2026-07-01

The Darwin Initiative invites applications for its Extra grants program to fund large-scale, collaborative projects aimed at protecting biodiversity and reducing poverty in eligible low- to upper-middle-income countries. Non-governmental organisations, research institutions, and private sector businesses can apply with initiatives that demonstrate strong potential to scale up proven environmental interventions. The program provides funding ranging from £1 million to £5 million for a project period lasting between two and five years. The deadline for Phase I applications is 01 July 2026.

Small Grants 2026

2026-07-03

The Save Our Seas Foundation invites applications for its small grants program to support original, innovative start-up projects focused on marine research, conservation, or education. The opportunity is dedicated to early-career scientists, conservationists, and educators worldwide who are within five years of receiving their degree. Eligible projects must focus specifically on marine chondrichthyan species, such as sharks, rays, skates, sawfishes, and chimaeras. The foundation provides annual grants of up to US$10 thousand, with awards averaging US$5,000, to cover local initiatives lasting up to 18 months. The deadline for stage-one applications is 03 July 2026.

Care Collective Fund

2026-07-05

GOT BAG offers the Care Collective Fund to support global ocean health and climate action initiatives. The grant program funds a diverse range of partners, including non-governmental organizations, foundations, grassroots initiatives, activists, academic research projects, and social enterprises. Eligible projects must fit a maximum duration of 12 months and align with one of the program’s three systemic pillars: plastic life cycle, maritime ecosystems, or community of care and climate resilience. While the program supports projects worldwide, it gives preference to locally led initiatives in the Global South and high-leakage regions like Southeast Asia and coastal Africa. Selected applicants receive a grant of €10,000 to implement their project. The deadline for applications is 05 July 2026.

Biodiversity Conservation in Madagascar and the Indian Ocean Islands

2026-07-07

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites letters of inquiry for large grants to support biodiversity conservation in the Madagascar and Indian Ocean Islands Hotspot. Non-governmental organizations, community groups, private enterprises, and other civil society entities are eligible to apply for projects that strengthen the protection of priority sites and ecosystems. Grants are available for amounts over US$50 thousand to support conservation actions in Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, and the Seychelles. The deadline for submission is 07 July 2026.

Media Workshop on Biodiversity Reporting in Kenya

2026-07-11

The Earth Journalism Network invites applications for a specialized workshop in Malindi, Kenya, aimed at strengthening conservation and environmental reporting. Print, broadcast, digital, and freelance journalists based in Kenya are eligible to apply, with priority given to women, rural, Indigenous, and early-career media professionals. The program provides a fully funded training experience for about 15 selected participants, covering all costs for travel, accommodation, and meals from 24 to 26 August 2026. The application deadline is 11 July 2026.

Global Grant Program

2026-07-15

The Conservation Nation Grant Program provides funding to help save endangered animals and their ecosystems. This grant will assist early to mid-career conservationists in their efforts by granting up to US$5,000 each, which will fund activities that are essential for their life-saving work but may not be covered by standard grant programs. Applications have to be received by 15 July 2026.

Research on Primates

2026-07-15

The Leakey Foundation funds research related to human origins. This includes research on primate biology, ecology, and behavior. The majority of research grants awarded to doctoral students range from US$3 thousand to US$20 thousand. Larger projects by senior scientists and post-doctoral students may be funded up to US$30 thousand. There are no citizenship restrictions. The next application deadline is 15 July 2026.


Ocean Innovation Funding Program

2026-07-31

Schmidt Marine Technology Partners invites applications for its ocean innovation program to transform promising marine technologies into real-world conservation tools. Universities, non-profit organisations, and startup companies globally can apply with practical, scalable hardware or software projects that improve ocean health, enhance sustainable fisheries, or support habitat restoration. The program does not fund individuals directly unless they apply through an eligible institution or business. Grant amounts typically range between US$100 thousand and US$400 thousand to support the development, testing, and deployment of these systems. The application deadline is 31 July 2026.

Restoration Stewards

2026-07-31

The Restoration Stewards program supports the work of young restoration practitioners and their teams through funding, mentorship, and training to deepen the impact of youth-led restoration projects. Teams receive a grant of €5 thousand to develop their restoration project and raise awareness among their local communities about the importance of ecosystem restoration and healthy landscapes. Projects may focus on preventing, halting, and reversing the degradation of ecosystems worldwide. The application deadline is 31 July 2026.

Grants for World Heritage Conservation

2026-07-31

The African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) provides grants to implement projects and activities which focus on improving the state of conservation of World Heritage properties located in Africa. Project activities are restricted to African government institutions involved in the management and protection of World Heritage sites, both cultural and natural, as defined by UNESCO. The grant will cover direct costs related to project activities. Applicants can apply for up to US$10 thousand in project funding. Projects must be implemented within 12 months. The application for financial assistance closes on 31 July 2026.

Crosscutting

Entrepreneur Award

2026-07-03

The Meaningful Business 100 (MB100) is an annual award program that honors global leaders who effectively combine profit and purpose to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The award is open to social entrepreneurs, corporate sustainability leaders, impact investors, and micro-entrepreneurs across various industries and regions. Individuals can nominate themselves or others. The deadline for entries is 03 July 2026.

Award for Young Changemakers

2026-07-12

The Moonshot Platform invites applications for the Moonshot Awards to back exceptional young changemakers developing solutions to the world's most urgent challenges. The program is open to global entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, and social advocates between the ages of 15 and 30 who are leading early-stage projects, startups, or non-profits that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Winners receive equity-free grants ranging from US$5 thousand to US$10 thousand depending on the category, alongside entry into a two-year leadership acceleration program that includes professional mentorship and fully sponsored travel to the awards ceremony in New York City. The final deadline for submissions is 12 July 2026.

Climate Justice Photography

2026-07-12

Photography 4 Humanity invites amateur and professional photographers worldwide to submit images for its 2026 Global Prize. This year’s theme, "HOME," asks artists to explore concepts of safety, belonging, and identity in a world shaped by climate change and displacement. The competition is open to individuals at least 18 years of age, and entrants may submit up to five photographs taken within the last three years. The Global Prize recipient receives a US$5 thousand cash award, and their work will be exhibited at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Human Rights Day. The deadline for submissions is 12 July 2026.

Startup Challenge

2026-07-14

The Social Nest Foundation invites applications for its 2026 Startup Challenge to support early- and growth-stage ventures driving social and environmental transformation. Legally incorporated startups from any country are eligible to apply, provided they have a validated minimum viable product or a product already on the market. The competition focuses on five innovation areas, including climate tech, smart cities, agritech, health, and inclusive economic systems. The single winning startup receives a €10 thousand cash prize, alongside international pitch opportunities and matchmaking sessions with investors in Valencia, Spain. The application deadline is 14 July 2026.

Tech for Good Impact Awards

2026-07-15

The Zendesk Tech for Good Impact Awards provides free software and multiple grants ranging from US$5 thousand to US$50 thousand to global nonprofit organizations. Impact Awards are made to products that promote resilience, foster community, and increase access to careers in technology in areas that range from refugee rights to environmental justice. Zendesk will also provide free product and software donations and Pro Bono support. Applications are due 15 July 2026.

Science and SciLifeLab Prize for Young Scientists 2026

2026-07-15

The SciLifeLab Prize for Young Scientists rewards outstanding early-career researchers. The prize is awarded annually to four young scientists for research performed while they were graduate students in the fields of cell and molecular biology, genomics, proteomics and systems biology, ecology and evolution, or molecular medicine. Applicants must have been awarded their PhD between 01 January 2023 and 31 December 2024. The grand prize winner receives US$30 thousand, and each of the three category winners receives US$10 thousand. Additionally, the grand prize-winning essay is published in Science, and the category winners' essays are published online.The deadline for entries is 15 July 2026.

Student Innovation Challenge

2026-07-16

The Sustainability & ESG Africa Conference & Expo invites applications for its Student Innovation Challenge to uncover practical solutions to systemic environmental, social, and governance issues. Eligible applicants must be 30 years of age or younger and currently enrolled at an accredited university or higher learning institution. Submissions must fall under one of four designated themes, including Nature, Biodiversity and Inclusive Economies. While the specific cash prize amounts or grant funding totals are not specified, winners will present their solutions at the main conference in Johannesburg, South Africa. The deadline for applications is 16 July 2026.

Pitch n Grow Competition

2026-07-20

The African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum invites applications for its Pitch n Grow competition. The program offers early-stage and high-growth women-led African startups the opportunity to present their business models directly to an audience of international investors, venture capitalists, and corporate executives during the annual forum. Eligible applicants must be female founders or business leaders running enterprises based in any African country. The competition focuses on providing market visibility, technical mentoring, and investor match-making; however, specific monetary grant awards are not disclosed. The application deadline is 20 July 2026.

Prize for Environmental Stewardship

2026-07-20

The Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future invites applications for the second cycle of the Earthna Prize. The award program supports global initiatives and projects that integrate traditional knowledge and cultural heritage to tackle contemporary environmental and sustainability challenges. Legally incorporated entities worldwide, including non-governmental organizations, community-based groups, civil society organizations, and private sector businesses, are eligible to apply. Submitted projects must focus on one or more of five strategic areas: water systems, food systems, terrestrial ecosystems, marine and coastal ecosystems, or built environments. The program features a total prize pool of US$1 million, which will be awarded among four winners to help scale and continue their environmental work. The application deadline is 20 July 2026.

Early-Career Awards

2026-07-21

The Wellcome Trust supports bold and creative discovery research that has the potential to improve human life, health, and well-being. The Early-Career Awards provide funding for early-career researchers from any discipline who are ready to develop their research identity through innovative projects. Research can be in any discipline, including STEM, experimental medicine, or climate – as long as it has the potential to improve human life. The Trust covers the researcher’s salary and up to £400 thousand for research expenses. The applicant’s host organization has to be based in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, or a low- or middle-income country (apart from India and mainland China). The deadline for new applications is 21 July 2026.

Young Changemakers 2026

2026-07-26

The Institute for Security Studies invites submissions for its Young Changemakers 2026 essay and video competition, aimed at centering youth perspectives on Africa's long-term future. The opportunity is open to African citizens between 18 and 30 years old who are currently residing on the continent or in the diaspora. Applicants must submit either an essay of up to two thousand words or a three-minute video addressing key development and governance transitions for Africa over the next two decades. Winners will receive fully funded travel to participate in a high-level dialogue in Pretoria, South Africa, alongside mentorship and publication opportunities. The deadline for submissions is 26 July 2026.

Grants for Grassroots Projects in Uganda

2026-07-31

The Embassy of Japan in Uganda provides financial assistance to non-profit, development-oriented organizations in support of community development projects in Uganda. Any projects geared towards grassroots assistance are eligible for financing, including water and sanitation, disaster relief, and agricultural development. The grant amount per project is generally under 10 million yen (approx. US$100 thousand). Potential recipients are international or local NGOs, community-based organizations, educational institutions, and local governments. The Embassy receives concept papers anytime throughout the year, but the selection process is conducted twice a year with deadlines on 15 February and 31 July.