Platform for African – European Partnership in Agricultural Research for Development

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

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.

Forum for the Future of Agriculture


14 April 2026
. Brussels. Forum for the Future of Agriculture (ForumforAg) Annual Conference

The 2026 Forum for the Future of Agriculture (ForumforAg) Annual Conference consisted of live broadcasts, moderated panel discussions and dialogues, interactive interventions, networking opportunities and exhibitions, live in Brussels and online.

Extracts of the programme


Session 2: How can we finance and accelerate the transition on the ground?


  • Kurt Vandenberghe, Director-General, DG CLIMA, European Commission
  • Panel session
  • Michael Brückner, Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors, Munich Re Investment Partners GmbH
  • Harvey Locke, President, Harvey Locke Conservation Inc; Vice Chair for Nature Positive, IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas
  • Lauren M. Phillips, Director of Partnerships and UN Collaboration, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
  • Martin Stuchtey, Founder, The Landbanking Group
  • Kurt Vandenberghe, Director-General, DG CLIMA, European Commission
  • Moderator: Rose O’Donovan, Chief Editor AGRAFACTS


Session 4: How will AI redefine what’s possible for a profitable, climate-smart, nature-positive agri-food system?


  • Jessica Agnew, Director of the GAP Initiative and Managing Editor of the Global Agricultural Productivity (GAP) Report, Virginia Tech
  • Martin Clough, Head Digital, Collaboration & Sustainability, Crop Protection Research, Syngenta
  • Justin Rose, President, Worldwide Agriculture & Turf, Small Agriculture and Turf Care, Europe, Africa, and Asia, Deere & Company
  • Ethan Soloviev, Chief Innovation Officer at HowGood
  • Moderator: Stephen Sackur, International Broadcast Journalist


15 April. ATIO at the 2026 Forum for the Future of Agriculture


The Agrifood Systems Technologies and Innovations Outlook (ATIO) initiative of FAO provides a global perspective on the technologies and innovations shaping agrifood systems. ATIO is a partnership-driven, evidence-based initiative that connects the end-to-end science, technology and innovation (STI) lifecycle. Backed by science, driven by evidence and powered by partnerships, the initiative brings together knowledge across research, policy and practice to support more coherent innovation pathways.

Through its flagship report series and the development of the ATIO Knowledge Base, the initiative synthesizes global evidence on emerging technological and innovation trends, maps evolving agrifood innovation ecosystems and examines the enabling environments required to support their adoption and scaling. By informing strategic decisions on investment and policy, ATIO strengthen the science–policy and society interface through its federated Knowledge Base on global innovations.




A multi-stakeholder dialogue explored how the ATIO Knowledge Base can be leveraged to improve access to technologies and innovations can be made more accessible, relevant and applicable to small-scale producers, agrifood actors and grassroots innovators. The discussion will examine how ATIO contributes to the translation of global knowledge into local impact, with a focus on levelling the playing field between formal and grassroots innovation actors and strengthening pathways for collaboration.
  • Barron Joseph Orr – Chief Scientist, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
  • Katie McRobert – President, Australian Farm Institute
  • Leonard Mizzi – Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA)
  • Megha Desai – Sr. Coordinator, Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA)
  • Saskia Visser – Strategic Partnerships & Opportunity Development Lead, CLIMATE-KIC
  • Tiina Huvio – Executive Director, Food and Forest Development Finland
  • Estefania Puricelli – Secretary, International Agri-food Network Secretary
  • Taru Haapaniemi – Member of Cabinet of the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, European Commission


Monday, April 20, 2026

Nigeria Steps Up Preparations for AASW9 and 10th FARA General Assembly as Abuja Mission Secures High-Level Backing

 

By Benjamin Abugri, Dr. Yusuf Nuhu (ARCN) & Shaquille Pennaneach

With the Presidency endorsing Nigeria’s hosting of the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW9) and the 10th FARA General Assembly, a first joint mission to Abuja has reaffirmed government commitment, kick-started local preparations, opened new partnership pathways, and set the stage for a high-profile continental gathering on agrifood systems transformation from 27–30 July 2026.


Preparations for the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW9) and the 10th Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) General Assembly gathered significant momentum following a first host-country mission to Abuja by a FARA delegation, which engaged senior government officials, strategic institutions, diplomatic missions and prospective partners ahead of the continental event, scheduled for 27–30 July 2026 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, Nigeria.

The event is being co-organised by the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), CORAF, and the Federal Government of Nigeria, working through the Presidency, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN). The Abuja mission confirmed that Nigeria is not only ready to host the event but that key ministers, acting on the President’s approval, are already mobilising political, institutional and technical support for its successful delivery.

Held under the theme “Innovations and Partnerships for Resilient and Sustainable Agrifood Systems in Africa,” AASW9 will convene policymakers, researchers, farmers, agribusinesses, investors, development partners, youth, innovators and private-sector leaders to shape Africa’s agrifood transformation agenda. Its four sub-themes will focus on emerging agricultural technologies and innovations; climate-resilient agrifood systems; nutrition, health and urban food systems; and enabling impact at scale through policies, financing, capacity, institutions and inclusion.

“The mission confirmed that political support for AASW9 is firmly in place, while strategic institutions in Nigeria are already stepping forward with ideas, partnerships and practical commitments.”

Click HERE...  to read full article.





Wednesday, April 1, 2026

NUS Africa's regional stakeholders conference 9 - 11 June 2026

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

AR4D Funding Opportunities for Africa : April 2026

Agriculture Fisheries Forestry


Innovate for Impact Challenge 2026

2026-04-15

The World Food Prize Foundation hosts the Innovate for Impact Challenge to accelerate agricultural technology solutions that address global food security. Early-stage, for-profit AgTech startups from any country are eligible to apply. The winner receives a US$50 thousand grand prize, while second and third-place finalists receive US$10 thousand and US$5 thousand respectively. All three finalists gain international exposure by pitching their innovations live at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2026.


Gender Responsive Agriculture Fellowship

2026-04-26

African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) manages the Women in Agriculture Leadership Program to strengthen the leadership and research skills of female scientists working on climate-responsive agriculture. This two-year, non-residential fellowship is open to mid-career women scientists who are nationals of and reside in Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, or Sierra Leone. While the program does not provide direct cash grants to individuals, it is a fully funded fellowship that covers all costs for high-level leadership training, science mentoring, and professional development workshops. The deadline for applications is 26 April 2026.

Plant Nutrition Scholar Award

2026-04-30

The Plant Nutrition Scholar Award program offers ten awards of US$2,000 to students in the disciplines of soil science, agronomy, and horticultural or tree crop science with a focus on plant nutrition. Students must also be attending a degree-granting institution located in Africa. Candidates must be enrolled in a program of graduate study as of the application deadline of 30 April 2026.

Hermann Eiselen Science Award 2026

2026-04-30

The Fiat Panis Foundation makes awards for university thesis and dissertation research in themes of agriculture and natural resources, with a focus on food security in developing countries. The Hermann Eiselen Science Award is made to a young scientist who focuses on helping to reduce hunger and malnutrition through agricultural research. The value of the award is €30 thousand. The deadline for applications is 30 April 2026.

Prize for Master Thesis in Food Security

2026-04-30

The Fiat Panis Foundation makes awards for university thesis and dissertation research in themes of agriculture, ecology, and natural resources, with a focus on food security in developing countries. The Hans Hartwig Ruthenberg Graduate Award is €7.5 thousand in support of qualified young scientists by honoring their excellent master thesis in the field of food security. The deadline for submissions (German, English) is 30 April 2026.

Collaborative Research Grants

2026-04-30

The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) provides funding for scientific projects in the life sciences, healthcare, bioenergy, and agricultural biotechnology. This program is open to principal investigators at universities or research institutes located in ICGEB Member States, with a specific category of "Early Career Return Grants" available for researchers under 40 who have recently returned to their home country from abroad. Grants provide a maximum of €25 thousand per year for projects lasting up to three years, for a total award of €75 thousand. The application deadline is 30 April 2026.

Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife

Prize for Nature Conservation

2026-04-08

The Iris Prize celebrates and supports young people accelerating action to protect and restore nature. The Iris Project awards three grants each year: US$5,000 for ages 14-24 awarded for a new idea; US$10 thousand for ages 16-24 awarded for an existing project; US$15 thousand for ages 16-24 awarded for an established project. Application is open to individuals, teams and organizations from all around the world. Applications are open until 08 April 2026.

3-year Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

2026-04-15

The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) invites applications for a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in tropical animal behavior. The annual stipend is US$62 thousand, and the annual research and travel budget is up to US$13 thousand per year. Fellows will be based in Panama and will have the opportunity to conduct comparative research throughout the tropics. Please note that applicants must find a STRI scientific staff member who will serve as their main host/advisor before submitting a final application. Applications have to be submitted by 15 April 2026.

Africa Climate and Environment Micro Grants

2026-04-30

The Pulitzer Center seeks local movements across Africa to promote climate and environmental action by supporting outreach initiatives that creatively integrate Pulitzer Center-supported journalism. Participants will receive micro grants to develop community engagement, dialogue forums, and awareness campaigns focused on climate and labor, rainforest protection, and ocean conservation. Grants range from US$2,500 to US$3,000. Eligibility extends to local organizations and movements targeting young professionals or communities across Africa. Applications close on 30 April 2026.

Small Grants for Conservation in Africa

2026-04-30

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

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

2026-04-30

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

Crosscutting


African Scholar Program

2026-04-06

The Nordic Africa Institute offers a scholarship for early-career researchers based in Africa to conduct research in Sweden for two to three months. The program is open to PhD students enrolled in African doctoral programs and postdoctoral researchers who completed their degree within the last four years, provided they are employed at an African university or research center. The scholarship covers economy airfare, accommodation, a workspace at the institute, and an installation grant of 2,500 SEK. Participants also receive a daily subsistence allowance of approximately 450 SEK to cover living expenses in Uppsala. The deadline for the 2027 program is 06 April 2026.

Future Positive Challenge 2026

2026-04-07

Logitech invites applications for the Future Positive Challenge to identify next-generation solutions for sustainable consumer electronics. The program seeks startups and scaling companies with innovative technologies in printed electronics, battery alternatives, advanced thermal materials, and sustainable packaging. Eligible applicants must have a working prototype or a solution ready for market integration globally. Winners may receive a share of a US$500 thousand prize pool to support further development and potential commercial partnership with Logitech. The deadline for applications is 07 April 2026.

Marie Curie COFUND Program

2026-04-08

The Marie Sklowdowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) support research training and career development. The MSCA COFUND scheme aims at stimulating regional, national, or international programs to foster excellence in researchers’ training, mobility, and career development. Each proposal under the COFUND scheme shall have a sole participant who will be responsible for matching funds to execute the proposal. Participants submit multi-annual proposals for new or existing doctoral programs or fellowship programs that may be run at regional, national, or international levels. The application deadline is 08 April 2026

Scholarships for International Students 2026

2026-04-10

Xiamen University (XMU) in coastal Southeast China supports several doctoral, master's, and undergraduate programs in English. Subject areas at XMU include marine affairs, environmental sciences and ecology, life sciences, and many others. The university's scholarship programs include several for international students. The application deadline is 10 April 2026.

Young Professional Development Program

2026-04-11

The Young Professional Development Program (YPDP) is a two-year program designed to prepare young professionals from OPEC Fund member countries for a career in global development. The themes include poverty reduction, energy and sustainable development, environment, and other related science and technology fields. YPDP offers training, coaching and mentoring, the opportunity to experience different departments and access to professional networks. To be selected for the program, applicants must be 30 years of age (or younger) and hold a Master’s degree. The deadline for applications is 11 April 2026.

Women Empowerment Award

2026-04-13

The Bayer Foundation Women Empowerment Award (WEA) recognizes women pioneering in health, nutrition, and related climate-smart solutions. Fifteen female entrepreneurs will get the chance to join the 6-month Accelerator Program and receive €25 thousand in support of their business. To qualify, applicants must center their solutions around health or food security related challenges. The award seeks to support women entrepreneurs driving impactful solutions in the Asia Pacific region, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. The application deadline is 13 April 2026.

Advancing Seagrass Science

2026-04-15

The Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) invites proposals to enhance the conservation, restoration, and governance of seagrass ecosystems. This initiative supports applied, policy-relevant research designed to contribute to climate action and sustainable blue economy goals across the Western Indian Ocean region. Funding is available for up to two projects, with each eligible for a grant of up to EUR 150,000 (approximately CAN$220,000) for a 12-month implementation period. To be eligible, proposals must be submitted by a consortium of institutions from at least two of the following countries: Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, or Tanzania. The deadline for submitting proposals is 15 April 2026.

African Women in Biotechnology

2026-04-15

The ICGEB-SAWBP Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme supports South African women researchers holding a PhD degree, in Biotechnology or a related discipline who will perform hypothesis-driven research. Proposed research projects must fall within one of the ICGEB areas of research: Infectious Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Bioinformatics, Plant Systems Biology, Biopesticides and Virology. The financial package includes an annual non-taxable stipend of approximately US$17,500 (ZAR 320,000) and annual research costs of approximately US$2,700 (ZAR 50,000), plus additional mobility support for visits to ICGEB labs in Italy and India. The closing date for applications is 15 April 2026.

Global STEM Accelerator

2026-04-15

The Global STEM Accelerator is a program for women and girls who desire to learn more about STEM fields that men traditionally dominate. Scholarship winners will participate in 12-week all-virtual programs focusing on emerging and critical STEM skills and fields, global competence education, and social impact. Applicants must be young women ages 15-17.5 years old. The application deadline is 15 April 2026.

African Research Cooperation with Germany

2026-04-15

The TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Program invites postdoctoral researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa to make cooperation visits to institutes in Germany. The visits are limited to three months, with the aim of promoting longer-term collaboration. The German Research Foundation will cover travel expenses and provide subsistence costs for the stay in Germany. Preference is given to young PhD-level scientists, particularly women. The next application deadline is 15 April 2026.

Master and PhD Applications 2026

2026-04-15

The Graduate Institute Geneva (Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies) offers Master's and PhD programs that address global, international, and transnational challenges facing the contemporary world. Its centers include the Centre for International Environmental Studies, among others. The Institute strives to support its students -- to the extent of its ability -- through cost-of-living scholarships, partial scholarships, and/or tuition fee reductions. The regular application deadline is 15 April 2026.

Impact Challenge: AI for Science

2026-04-17

Google.org invites applications for its AI for Science Impact Challenge, a US$30 million global initiative to accelerate scientific breakthroughs using artificial intelligence. The program focuses on two primary domains: health and life sciences, and climate resilience and environmental science. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, academic and research institutions, and for-profit social enterprises with a clear social impact purpose. Selected organizations will receive grants ranging from US$500 thousand to over US$3 million, alongside participation in a six-month Google.org Accelerator providing pro bono technical expertise and Google Cloud credits. The deadline for applications is 17 April 2026.

Accelerator Program

2026-04-24

The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for its Ray of Hope Accelerator. The institute supports high-impact nature-inspired startups from all over the globe. Each selected startup receives US$15 thousand in non-dilutive funding and over US$50 thousand worth of in-kind services. The program includes tailored coaching, investor introductions, and a 4-day Nature Retreat. The application deadline is 24 April 2026.

Training for Social Entrepreneurs

2026-04-27

The Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship accepts applications for an accelerator program focused on social enterprises working on women’s economic power and/or climate resilience. The program is designed for established social entrepreneurs who directly serve people living in poverty who suffer disproportionately from climate change. Climate resilience falls into one of the following three categories: sustainable energy, availability of sustainable management of water and sanitation, and climate-smart agriculture. Non-profit, for-profit, or hybrid social enterprises that have a clear commitment to an earned revenue model with the potential for scale are all encouraged to apply. There are no geographical limitations. The application deadline is 27 April 2026.

Business Heroes Competition 2026

2026-04-28

African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors, and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 28 April 2026.

Australia Awards Africa

2026-04-30

The Australian Government invites applications for the Australia Awards scholarships to provide mid-to-senior-level professionals from eligible African countries the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Australia. The program targets individuals from 25 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and South Africa, who work in priority sectors such as agriculture, climate change, and international security. Applicants must be at least 25 years old and possess five years of relevant post-graduate work experience. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, return air travel, a one-off establishment allowance, and a contribution to living expenses for the duration of the study. The deadline for applications is 30 April 2026.

BiotechNet Grants

2026-04-30

The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) supports original research projects in basic science, healthcare, and biotechnology specifically for investigators in Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. These two-year grants offer a maximum annual contribution of €24,000 (€48,000 total) to cover consumables, equipment, and travel, with a unique requirement that lead investigators must host a fellow from another partner country to foster regional collaboration. Eligible applicants must hold a position at a university or research institute in one of the four beneficiary countries, and a special "Early Career Return Grant" is available for researchers under 40 who have recently returned to the region after at least two years abroad. The application deadline is 30 April 2026.

Research, Innovation, and Creativity Grants

2026-04-30

The O’Shaughnessy Fellowships offer US$100 thousand equity-free grants to individuals worldwide pursuing research, creative projects, or innovation. Fellows receive mentorship and support from OSV’s network of experts, founders, and investors. Applicants must demonstrate initiative, resourcefulness, and strong proof of work. Additional US$10 thousand grants are available to select applicants based on the Fellowship application. Awards are open to individuals aged 18+ globally. The early application deadline is 28 February, and the extended deadline is 30 April.

Solutions and Climate Action

2026-04-30

The Youth4Climate Call for Solutions supports innovative projects led by young people aged 18 to 29 that address climate challenges in areas such as sustainable energy, food and agriculture, and the blue economy. Eligible applicants include individual youth and youth-led organizations from around the world. Selected solutions receive a US$30 thousand grant for implementation over a maximum of 24 months, alongside technical mentorship and capacity-building support. The application deadline is 30 April 2026.

Small World Competition 2026

2026-04-30

The Nikon Small World Competition is open to anyone with an interest in photography through the microscope. Each year, the top 20 prize-winners are exhibited at numerous museums and science centers throughout the United States and Canada. The Top 3 winners will receive up to US$3 thousand. Only photomicrographs are eligible. Entries must be received no later than 30 April 2026.

Science Reporting Award

2026-04-30

The Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW) awards the Sharon Begley Science Reporting Award. The award recognizes the accomplishments of a mid-career science journalist. The winner receives US$20 thousand to undertake a significant reporting project. Candidates must be experienced journalists who have compiled a substantial body of work in science journalism. The deadline for submissions is 30 April 2026.

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Funding Underutilized Legumes Research: Industry Collaboration

25 March 2026. 34th Academic Lecture Series of the Society for Underutilized Legumes (SUL). Funding Underutilized Legumes Research: Industry Collaboration  

Webinar organized by the Society for Underutilized Legumes (SUL).

Professor Adesola Ajayi, Vice-Chancellor of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (Tech-U), delivered a compelling message: Nigeria is overlooking a major economic and nutritional opportunity—underutilized legumes.

Nigeria possesses one of Africa’s richest legume gene pools, including crops that are drought-tolerant, nutrient-dense, and culturally embedded. Yet these crops remain largely absent from formal research agendas, national budgets, commercial seed systems, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) markets. This neglect is driven by structural factors rather than agronomic limitations. Limited research investment leads to a lack of improved varieties, which discourages private sector engagement and perpetuates a cycle of underinvestment.

This gap is particularly striking given Nigeria’s broader context. With a population exceeding 230 million facing increasing food insecurity and an FMCG market valued at around $25 billion and growing rapidly, the country is under pressure to identify scalable, locally sourced solutions. Underutilized legumes present a compelling opportunity to respond to both challenges simultaneously.

Their potential extends well beyond food security. Economically, they can reduce dependence on imported wheat while opening export opportunities for crops such as Bambara groundnut and pigeon pea. Socially, their commercialization can generate employment across value chains and significantly boost rural incomes. Importantly, these crops are predominantly cultivated and processed by women, meaning that their expansion directly supports women’s economic empowerment. Nutritionally, underutilized legumes offer high protein content and essential micronutrients, making them well suited to address malnutrition and hidden hunger.

The urgency of leveraging this potential is underscored by Nigeria’s nutrition crisis. Approximately one-third of children under five are stunted, while millions face acute malnutrition and a majority of women of reproductive age suffer from anaemia. Underutilized legumes, which can be incorporated into commonly consumed foods such as bread, noodles, and complementary products, provide a practical pathway to improving dietary quality at scale.

Despite this promise, three systemic barriers continue to limit progress

  1. Public research funding remains heavily concentrated on major staple crops, leaving underutilized legumes underfunded. 
  2. The private sector, particularly FMCG companies, has yet to engage meaningfully, relying instead on global commodity supply chains. 
  3. At the same time, a significant gap exists between research and commercialization, with insufficient investment in product development, processing technologies, and regulatory readiness. As a result, many research outputs fail to reach the market.

However, evolving market dynamics suggest that change is possible. Nigeria’s FMCG sector is experiencing strong growth, driven by increasing demand for plant-based and health-oriented products, as well as economic pressures that favor local sourcing. These trends create a growing market pull for innovative ingredients such as underutilized legumes.

Among these crops, Bambara groundnut illustrates the commercial potential. With protein levels comparable to widely consumed legumes and strong resilience to harsh growing conditions, it is already integrated into local diets and has demonstrated versatility in processed foods such as bread, biscuits, and snacks. Even modest incorporation into mainstream food products could generate significant economic returns while improving nutrition and reducing reliance on imports.

Global experience offers useful lessons. Institutions such as EMBRAPA in Brazil and ICRISAT in India have shown that sustained public investment combined with structured private sector engagement can successfully translate research into commercial outcomes. In Africa, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture provides a strong scientific base, but stronger linkages to markets are needed. The key challenge is therefore not the absence of knowledge, but the lack of coordinated systems to move innovations from laboratory to market.

To address this, the proposed Nigerian Underutilized Legumes Research and Commercialization Consortium (NULRCC) offers a promising pathway. By bringing together researchers, industry, government, and development partners, the consortium would align investments, support product development, and accelerate commercialization through a phased approach combining public and private financing.

Universities are central to this transformation. By acting as translational hubs, they can bridge the gap between research and industry through food technology pilot plants, industry partnerships, and market-oriented research. Institutions such as Tech-U are well positioned to lead this shift, given their applied focus and proximity to key agricultural and research ecosystems.

Nigeria now stands at a pivotal moment. The convergence of market growth, food system pressures, and rising demand for nutritious, locally sourced products creates a unique opportunity. Unlocking the potential of underutilized legumes will require coordinated action across stakeholders, but the rewards are clear: stronger rural economies, improved nutrition, reduced import dependence, and more inclusive agricultural development.

Thursday, March 26, 2026

Conscious Food Systems Alliance

26 March 2026. The Royal Government of Bhutan, the Conscious Food Systems Alliance and the UN Development Programme along with partners, will host the first Global Conscious Food Systems Summit, from 31 August to 4 September in Paro, Bhutan. 

This online kick-off event of the Global Conscious Food Systems Summit 2026— featured high-level speakers including: 

  • Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Bhutan 
  • Haoliang Xu, UN Under-Secretary-General and UNDP Associate Administrator
  • Hindou Ibrahim, Climate adaptation expert and Indigenous rights advocate
  • Nana Woo, Human Development Programme Design Specialist, SEKEM

The contribution of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) for sustainable agrifood systems transformation

26 March 2026. The contribution of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) for sustainable agrifood systems transformation

The webinar examined how NUS could support the transition toward more sustainable, resilient, and nutrition-sensitive agrifood systems. It highlighted the role of these crops in enhancing dietary diversity, strengthening climate resilience, and conserving biodiversity, while also contributing to local economic development through diversified value chains. 

The webinar addressed the need to better integrate NUS into policy frameworks and innovation agendas, linking research, practice, and policy processes. Participants emphasized the importance of improving post-harvest handling and value addition, as well as strengthening the science–policy–practice interface to support scaling. The discussions underscored both the potential of NUS and the remaining knowledge gaps, particularly in relation to processing, storage, and market integration.

Speakers:
  • Sayed Azam-Ali, CEO, Crops For the Future CFF; Chair UN High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition; Chair (Emeritus) Global Food Security, University of Nottingham.-Importance of neglected and underutilised species: why do they matter?”


  • Hamid El Bilali, Researcher, CIHEAM Bari From SUSTLIVES to AgriEcoNUS+: Scaling Agrobiodiversity and NUS-Based Food Systems in Africa”



  • NUS from a value chain development perspective”, by Emmanuel Msuya, Marketing Programme Officer, SWISSAID Tanzania


Comment of Maureen Duru, coordinator of the GFAiR Collective Action on Forgotten Foods:

"How will all these interventions ensure that communities especially in Africa, who are custodians of many NUS, retain ownership and control over their genetic resources and traditional knowledge? Are there safeguards are in place to prevent biopiracy or unfair commercialization of African indigenous crops? If these are not in place, we will still have a system that that takes from the continent for the benefit of others."

"Can the EU or relevant projects also explore integrating African diaspora entrepreneurs as key actors in developing NUS value chains between Africa and Europe. The diaspora food markets have been sustaining farmers, processors and marketers working on NUS for years".

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.

🥢 WhatIF Foods (Singapore)

  • 👉 This Singapore-based startup is the pioneer in commercializing Bambara-based noodles globally

Products:

  • BAMnut instant noodles (“Only Noods”)
  • Variants include pumpkin, moringa, charcoal, etc.

Key features:

  • Made from Bambara groundnut flour (“BamNut”)
  • High protein (~16–17g per serving) and high fiber
  • Produced using air-frying instead of deep frying (no palm oil)

Resources:

Hamid El Bilali et all (2024) Mapping Research on Bambara Groundnut in Africa Bibliometric, Geographical, and Topical Perspectives 33 p.

Reviews 180 scientific publications on Bambara groundnut across Africa. This article shows its strong potential for:
  • food & nutrition security
  • climate resilience
  • livelihoods
  • Identifies major gaps:
  • weak research coverage in key producing countries
  • limited work on markets, processing, and socio-economics

Analyses Bambara groundnut as a neglected and underutilized species (NUS). This article highlights key constraints:
  • low productivity
  • lack of improved varieties
  • weak agronomic practices

There is a widespread agreement that West African food systems need to be transformed. Neglected and underutilised crop species (NUCS/NUS) and agroecology can play a vital role in making these systems more sustainable and resilient. Therefore, this systematic review analyses the multifaceted and multidimensional relationships between NUS and agroecology as well as the potential contribution of NUS to agroecological transition in West Africa.

Background

SUSTLIVES (August 2021 - July 2025)
SUSTLIVES focused on promoting sustainable livelihoods through the valorisation of neglected and underutilised species (NUS), with particular emphasis on strengthening local value chains, improving nutrition, and enhancing resilience to climate change. 

  • The project worked closely with smallholder farmers and local enterprises to develop sustainable production, processing, and marketing strategies, while fostering multi-actor collaboration among research, policy, and private sector stakeholders. 
  • By integrating agroecological principles and supporting capacity development, SUSTLIVES contributed to more inclusive and diversified agrifood systems, particularly in vulnerable regions.
  • It promoted diversified farming systems, soil health restoration, and climate-smart practices while integrating socio-economic dimensions such as income diversification, gender inclusion, and local value chains. 
  • A key feature of SUSTLIVES was its use of living labs and co-creation with farmers, ensuring that innovations are locally adapted and scalable. The project ultimately aims to strengthen livelihoods while contributing to broader food systems transformation and environmental sustainability.

AgriEcoNUS+ (start February 2026)
AgriEcoNUS+ (Enhancing value chains and markets of Neglected and Underutilized crop Species to contribute to Agroecological transition in Africa), is to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of local agri-food systems in partner countries by promoting agroecological principles and the valorisation of neglected and underutilised species (NUS), with a focus on climate change adaptation and socio-economic shocks.

  • Implementing partners: AICS, IFAD, CIHEAM-Bari (Centre International de Hautes Études Agronomiques Méditerranéennes – Institut Agronomique Méditerranéen de Bari), and SWISSAID.  
  • Development and International Agencies: Alliance Bioversity International– CIAT (ABC), FiBL;
  • Regional Organisations: CORAF, ROPPA, 3AO alliance, AFSA; 
  • African Universities & Research Institutes: UJKZ (Burkina Faso), UAM (Niger), UG (Ghana), UPGC (Côte d’Ivoire), ISRA (Senegal), TARI (Tanzania), SUA (Tanzania), Bio-Innovation Zimbabwe, etc