Forgotten food and the UK diaspora of African origin

26 - 30 April 2025. Field visit Forgotten Foods Consortium, supported by the Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation (GFAiR). 

Ms. Samira Hotobah-During, Director, Coordinator and Focal Point of the Resilient Local Food Supply Chains Alliance (RLFSC Alliance, one of the WFP coalitions emerging out of the UNFSS) joined the field visit. (see pic: middle).

The objectives of this African Diaspora Food Market in the UK were to:

• 
  Explore the current African diaspora food market landscape in the UK
  
• Identify key trends, gaps, opportunities, and innovations
• Engage with members of the Forgotten Food Consortium
• Strengthen networks with agrofood entrepreneurs, retailers, and food advocates
• Evaluate findings and develop actionable next steps

Download here the Field Note Template and Observation Checklist (# 4pp.)

The UK African Diaspora

As of the 2021 Census, approximately 2.4 million people in England and Wales identified as belonging
to the "Black, Black British, Black Welsh, Caribbean or African" ethnic group, representing about 4.0% of the population. Within this group, the "African" subcategory was the largest. Specific write-in responses included:​ (a) Nigerian: 270,768​, (b) Somali: 150,993​, (c) Ghanaian: 112,958​. These figures pertain to England and Wales.

In the UK, individuals seeking African food can find a variety of products in both physical markets and online stores. These outlets offer a range of traditional ingredients, fresh produce, and specialty items catering to diverse African cuisines.​

🛒 Physical Markets and Shops

London:

• Brixton Market & Brixton Village: Located in South London, these markets are renowned for their vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, including African and Caribbean food stalls. Visitors can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients essential for African cooking.​
• Queen's Market (Upton Park): Situated in East London, Queen's Market is a historic market known for its multicultural vendors. It offers a variety of African food items, from fresh vegetables to specialty meats and spices. ​
• Deptford Market: This market in Southeast London features a mix of stalls selling African, Caribbean, and Asian foodstuffs. Shoppers can find a range of products, including fresh produce, meats, and traditional African ingredients. ​

Other UK Cities:

• Manchester: Areas like Moss Side and Cheetham Hill host several African grocery stores
  offering a variety of traditional products.​
• Birmingham: The city boasts a number of African and Caribbean food shops, particularly in neighborhoods such as Handsworth and Aston.​
• Oxford: Shops like Tahmid Stores on Cowley Road and Cashmere Afro Mini Market in Abingdon provide African food items to the local community. ​

🌐 Online African Food Stores

For those who prefer shopping online or reside outside major cities, several UK-based online stores specialize in African groceries:

• Wosiwosi: Offers a wide range of African food products, including condiments, grains, and beverages.​
• Afrocarib.co.uk: Provides a selection of African and Caribbean food items, delivering across the UK.​
• 
  Akins Foods: Specializes in African and Afro-Caribbean groceries, with options for online shopping and delivery.​
• Gemini Foods: Offers a variety of African and Caribbean food products, including fresh produce and pantry staples.​
• Samis Online: An Afro-Caribbean online superstore providing a range of groceries and household items.​
• Ofoodi UK: Stocks over 200 authentic African groceries, with options for online ordering and delivery.​

Whether shopping in bustling markets or online, the UK offers numerous avenues to access authentic African food products, catering to the diverse culinary needs of its communities.

Main commodities

In UK markets that specialize in African food, the main commodities typically include:

• 
  Fresh Produce: Leafy greens like: Ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves), Ewedu (jute leaves), Bitter leaf, Spinach varieties (e.g., amaranth); Root crops: Yam, Cassava (fresh or frozen), Cocoyam, Sweet potatoes; Plantain – green and ripe
• Meat and Fish: Smoked fish (tilapia, catfish, stockfish), Dried fish, Goat meat (often preferred for soups and stews), Offals (tripe, cow skin—ponmo), Frozen African-style cuts (turkey tails, chicken gizzards)
• Grains, Flours & Starches:  Garri (cassava flakes), Fufu flour (yam, plantain, or cassava-based), Semolina, Rice (often long grain or parboiled, like Nigerian-style), Beans (black-eyed peas, honey beans/ewa oloyin)
• Spices, Condiments & Seasonings: Ground crayfish, Maggi cubes (and other bouillon brands like Knorr, Royco), Egusi (melon seeds), Ogbono (wild mango seeds), Suya spice, Dawa-dawa/Iru (fermented locust beans), Palm oil
• Canned & Packaged Foods: Jollof rice spice mixes; Tomato paste (used in stews); Canned palm nut soup base; Stock cubes and seasoning blends
• 
  Beverages & Snacks: Malt drinks (e.g., Malta Guinness, Amstel Malta); Chin chin; Plantain chips; Zobo (hibiscus) leaves; Groundnut (peanut)

What does this represent in term of income and international trade?

The UK's ethnic food market, encompassing African, Caribbean, Asian, and other international cuisines, was valued at approximately $9.47 billion in 2023. Projections indicate growth to $17.7 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% . This expansion is driven by the UK's increasing multicultural population and a growing consumer interest in diverse culinary experiences.​

While specific data on the African food segment is limited, it constitutes a substantial portion of this market. Major urban centers such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester host numerous African grocery stores, restaurants, and market stalls, catering to both African diaspora communities and a broader customer base seeking authentic African cuisine.​

• 
  International Trade and Imports: The UK's importation of African food products contributes to its international trade dynamics. Although precise figures for African food imports are not readily available, the UK imports various food commodities from African countries, including:​ Coffee, tea, mate, and spices: For instance, imports from Nigeria in this category amounted to approximately $3.3 million in 2023 .​ Cereal, flour, starch, milk preparations, and products: Imports from Nigeria were around $3.08 million in 2023 .​
• Trading Economics: These imports support the UK's diverse food market and cater to the demand for authentic African ingredients.
• Economic and Cultural Impact: The African food sector contributes to the UK economy through various channels:​ (a) Retail and Hospitality: African grocery stores, restaurants, and market vendors provide employment opportunities and stimulate local economies, particularly in multicultural urban areas.; (b) Cultural Exchange: The availability of African food products and dining experiences enriches the UK's cultural landscape, promoting diversity and cross-cultural understanding.​
• Supply Chain Engagement: The importation and distribution of African food items involve logistics, wholesale, and retail sectors, further integrating the African food market into the UK's economic framework.​

Potential for the promotion of the consumption of nutritious African Forgotten foods

The 7.1% annual growth rate of the UK ethnic food market presents a strong opportunity to promote the
consumption of nutritious African Forgotten Foods (AFFs)—nutrient-rich crops and ingredients that are traditionally underutilized but culturally significant. 

1. Market Potential for Forgotten Foods: Growing demand for health-conscious and sustainable foods aligns with many AFFs, which are: (a) Naturally nutrient-dense (e.g., fonio, baobab, amaranth, tigernut, moringa), (b) Climate-resilient and often organically grown, (c) Consumers, especially younger demographics, are increasingly seeking authentic, functional, and story-rich foods, which AFFs embody.
   
   
   
2. Entry through Established Ethnic Food Channels: (a) African food stores, online retailers, and ethnic restaurants already have: Distribution networks for niche ingredients + Brand credibility among diaspora communities; (b) A base for educating wider UK audiences on the culinary and nutritional value of AFFs
3. Commercial & Policy Incentives: (a) UK-based food innovation hubs and funding bodies are supporting diversification of food systems and the introduction of culturally inclusive nutrition initiatives; (b) AFFs align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly on nutrition and biodiversity—this opens doors for public-private partnerships and grant-funded promotion.
4. Influence of the African Diaspora. With nearly 2.5 million people of African origin in the UK, there is: (a) A strong cultural base to promote traditional foods; (b) A community-driven movement to reclaim and celebrate heritage diets; (c) Diaspora-led entrepreneurs and chefs can lead the branding, storytelling, and innovation around these foods.

Projected Outcomes with Strategic Investment

If the growth in the ethnic food market is strategically tapped:

• The market for AFFs in the UK could grow from niche to mainstream in 5–10 years
• Potential revenue for AFF imports and value-added products (e.g. flour, snacks, beverages) could reach tens of millions annually
• Could stimulate agrifood trade with African countries, benefiting smallholder farmers and exporters.

Emerging EU policy impacts on African food systems

7 April 2025, Emerging EU policy impacts on African food systems

The Global Panel on Agriculture and Food Systems for Nutrition has published a new technical paper by Koen Dekeyser from the European Centre for Development Policy Management, Emerging EU policy impacts on African food systems

The paper describes how the interdependence between the EU’s and African food systems can deliver benefits for both sides, particularly through trade. It also highlights the barriers and opportunities, presenting three key recommendations.

This paper was commissioned by the Global Panel on Agriculture and Food Systems for Nutrition to inform the Panel’s report: Building resilience and enhancing nutrition in Africa’s food systems. 

Funding for both the Panel’s report and this paper was provided by the Irish Government. The findings and conclusions contained here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the positions or policies of the funder or the Global Panel.

AR4D Funding Opportunities for Africa : May 2025

Agriculture Fisheries Forestry

New England Biolabs Foundation

Grants for Grassroots Conservation 2025

2025-05-01

The New England Biolabs Foundation makes grants to grassroots and charitable organizations to support the conservation of biological diversity; ecosystem services; community food security; and marine environment. The geographical scope focuses on regions (specified on the website) in Central America; South America, and West Africa. The maximum grant size is US$10 thousand. Most grants are US$3 thousand to US$8 thousand. The deadlines for submission of LOIs are 01 May and 20 October 2025.

Global Forest Watch

Small Grants Fund for Civil Society Organizations

2025-05-09

Global Forest Watch (GFW) is an interactive online forest monitoring and alert system designed to empower people with the information they need to better manage and conserve forest landscapes. The Small Grants Fund provides financial and technical support to non-profit NGOs that want to use Global Forest Watch (GFW), an interactive online forest monitoring and alert system, designed to empower people with the information they need to better manage and conserve forest landscapes. The Small Grants Fund provides financial and technical support to non-profit NGOs that want to use Global Forest Watch in their research, advocacy, and fieldwork. The scope of the 2025 Small Grants Fund focuses on forest advocacy, monitoring, storytelling, and capacity building. Grants range between US$10 thousand and US$40 thousand. Eligibility for grants extends to non-profit organizations for projects in selected countries of Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The deadline for submissions is 09 May 2025.

World Academy of Sciences

Prize in Agricultural Sciences or Biology

2025-05-14

The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) invites nominations for the Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award in Agricultural Sciences or Biology. The prize aims to recognize scientists for their achievements in Agricultural Sciences or Biology. Eligible nominees are female scientists from scientifically and technologically lagging countries. The prize is a US$4 thousand cash award. Nominations should be submitted electronically before 14 May 2025.

Ekhaga Foundation

Ecological Agriculture and Biological Medicine

2025-05-20

The Ekhaga Foundation makes research grants in ecological agriculture and biological medicine. The main focus should be on scientific research and primarily applied research. Ekhagastiftelsen wishes primarily to support strategic and innovative projects of a pilot nature, as well as research that is highly newsworthy and that not just confirms previous findings. It is possible to apply for scholarships, but this is usually only granted for research-related projects. There is no maximum amount. Please note that the total amount awarded is usually in the range SEK 10-15 million. Universities, research institutes, etc., from all over the world are invited to apply. Cooperation with a Swedish institution is an advantage but not a requirement. The deadline for applications is 20 May 2025.

SVG Ventures

Global Accelerator for Agrifood Tech Startups

2025-05-25

Silicon Valley Global Ventures is an investment, technology, and advisory firm that invests in companies that go through their accelerator program. The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge seeks innovative startups advancing a more sustainable future for agriculture. Selected companies benefit from an accelerator program that provides investment, mentorship, and direct access to agriculture companies and farmers. The winning company will receive an investment of up to US$1 million. The application deadline is 25 May 2025.

Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife

Hurtigruten Foundation

Grants Program

2025-05-01

The Hurtigruten Foundation seeks submissions for the Hurtigruten Foundation Grants Program to fight climate change, strengthen local communities, and stop unsustainable mass tourism. All grants are awarded in the range of €5 thousand to €10 thousand. The Foundation currently funds projects in Alaska, Antarctica, Arctic Canada and the Northwest Passage, Argentina, the British Isles, the Caribbean, Chile, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, the Falkland Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Svalbard, Cape Verde, Senegal, Gambia and Guinea-Bissau in West Africa. The application deadlines are 01 May and 01 November 2025.

IUCN-Netherlands

Land Acquisition for Conservation

2025-05-01

The World Conservation Union in the Netherlands (IUCN-Netherlands) provides grants up to €85 thousand for the purchase and protection of threatened wildlife habitats and vulnerable ecosystems in Asia, Asia-Pacific countries, Africa, and Latin America. The grants are to qualified and experienced local non-profit conservation organizations. Local conservation NGOs and CSOs are eligible for this program and are invited to submit their proposals. The deadline for applications is 01 May 2025.

Wildlife Acoustics

Bio-Acoustics Product Grants

2025-05-15

Wildlife Acoustics aims to advance animal biology research, habitat monitoring and environmental conservation through bio-acoustics recording technology. The Wildlife Acoustics Scientific Product Grant Program offers US$4 thousand of product-in-kind grants to biologists, researchers, conservationists, and students who work for charitable, educational, and other tax-exempt organizations. There are no geographical limitations. Applications are evaluated quarterly with deadlines on 15 February, 15 May, 15 August, and 15 November 2025.

Global Development Network

Strengthening Research Capacity in Biodiversity

2025-05-16

The Global Development Network (GDN) launches a global consultation to gather insights on strengthening national research capacity in biodiversity. Researchers, policymakers, and practitioners are invited to share ideas on capacity-building mechanisms, successful policy-research partnerships, and sustainable funding strategies. The results will be analysed and shared, with participating institutions gaining early access to findings and potential collaboration opportunities. The deadline is 16 May 2025.

People’s Trust for Endangered Species

Conservation Insight Grants

2025-05-30

The PTES makes grants to scientific researchers and conservationists worldwide for work that helps preserve endangered species, either through research or applied field work. (Note: PTES no longer accepts grant applications for research and conservation of bird species.) The program offers small grants between £3 thousand and £10 thousand per year for up to two years. Funds will be awarded for work that aims to generate the scientific evidence that will facilitate the conservation of a species. PTES only accepts grant requests from applicants already working and established in either the UK, UK overseas territories or any country not classified by the World Bank as high-income. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full project proposal.

Oak Spring Garden Foundation

Plant Conservation Biology Fellowship

2025-05-31

The Oak Spring Garden Foundation awards Fellowships in Plant Conservation Biology to one early-career practitioner working on issues related to plant and landscape conservation. The award includes a US$10 thousand individual grant and requires a 2 to 8-week stay at Oak Spring (USA). Applicants must be early-career practitioners, scholars, or scientists, not enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in 2026. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2025.

Crosscutting

Environmental Research and Education Foundation

Research on Solid Waste

2025-05-01

The Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF) offers research grants on the management of solid wastes. Topics include waste minimization; recycling; waste conversion to energy, biofuels, chemicals, and other products; waste diversion to other uses; and landfills. There are no geographical restrictions on institutions that can apply. Previously awarded grants have ranged from US$15 thousand to over US$500 thousand (with an average grant amount of US$160 thousand). The deadlines for pre-proposals are 01 May and 01 December 2025.

Oppenheimer Generations Foundation

JWO Research Grant

2025-05-02

The Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant supports early-career scientists who conduct impactful research that will provide solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing problems. The proposed research should be focused on the intersection between biodiversity and the economy; environmental tipping points; pollution and impact on the environment; or the impact of basic sciences on sustainable development. A grant of US$150 thousand will support a research project or program for up to three years. Applicants must have strong links to an African academic institution, research institution, government institution, NGO, or for-profit organization. The application deadline is 02 May 2025.

Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement

Nominations 2026

2025-05-02

The Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement grants US$250 thousand to recognize exceptional accomplishments in environmental science, energy, or medicine. The Tyler Prize can be awarded to living individuals or public or private institutions anywhere in the world. Several past prize winners have been distinguished in scientific and technical areas such as the global nitrogen cycle, global biodiversity assessments, wastewater treatment in developing countries, and others relevant to the link between environment and development. The closing date for nominations is 02 May 2025.

United Nations

Action Awards for Sustainable Development Goals

2025-05-07

The UN SDG Action Awards aim to support action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mobilizers, storytellers, campaigners, connectors, visualizers, and creatives fighting for sustainable development can apply. The Awards are open to individuals, organizations, governments, foundations, or private sector leaders worldwide. The winners will be announced at a special UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony at UN Headquarters in New York City, USA. Applications have to be submitted before 07 May 2025.

Regional Studies Association

Early-Career Grant

2025-05-12

The Regional Studies Association (RSA) covers issues in the fields of climate change, energy, migration, and economic development. RSA makes grants to early-career researchers in support of their regional studies and/or regional science research. Individuals can apply for up to £10 thousand for projects of up to 18 months in duration. Please note that applicants have to be RSA members (non-members may apply and join RSA at the same time). Grants have no geographical limitation, past grant holders come from Egypt, Argentina, China, etc. Expressions of Interest have to be submitted by 12 May 2025.

Regional Studies Association

Research Grants

2025-05-12

The Regional Studies Association (RSA) supports outstanding individual researchers on topics related to regional studies and regional science. Individuals can apply for up to £5 thousand for projects of up to 18 months in duration. Please note that applicants have to be RSA members (non-members may apply and join RSA at the same time). Grants have no geographical limitation, past grant holders come from Egypt, Argentina, China, etc. Expressions of Interest have to be submitted by 12 May 2025.

World Academy of Sciences

TWAS-Abdool Karim Prize in Biological Sciences

2025-05-14

The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) invites nominations for the Abdool Karim Prize in Biological Sciences. The prize aims to recognize scientists for their achievements in Biological Sciences. Eligible nominees are female scientists national of a low-income African country. The prize is a US$5 thousand cash award. Nominations should be submitted electronically before 14 May 2025.

Tällberg Foundation

Global Leadership Prize

2025-05-15

The Tällberg-SNF-Eliasson Global Leadership Prize recognizes innovative leaders addressing complex global challenges. Each of the three laureates will receive an unrestricted US$50 thousand grant. Nominations are open to anyone. The application deadline is 15 May 2025.

Einstein Forum

Einstein Fellowship 2025

2025-05-15

The Einstein Forum offers a fellowship for early-career researchers who wish to pursue a project in a different field from that of their previous research. Please note that the proposed project must be significantly different in content, field, and form, from the applicant’s previous work. The fellowship includes living accommodations for up to 6 months in Caputh (Germany). The fellow will receive a stipend of €10 thousand and reimbursement of travel expenses. Candidates must be under 35 and hold a university degree in the humanities, the social sciences, or the natural sciences. Applicants have to submit their application by 15 May 2025.

Orange Telecom

Orange Social Venture Prize 2025

2025-05-18

The Orange Social Venture Prize recognizes entrepreneurs and start-up organizations that make innovative use of technology in agriculture, energy, and other fields of development. The geographical focus is Africa and the Middle East. Prizes range from €10 thousand to €25 thousand, plus professional support for a period of six months. In addition, Orange will reward more start-ups with the International Women’s Prize worth €20 thousand. The registration deadline is 18 May 2025.

World Academy of Sciences

African Research Cooperation with Germany

2025-05-19

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 19 May 2025.

L’Oreal and UNESCO

Young Women in Science South Africa

2025-05-20

The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program supports the involvement of young women in scientific research. This program rewards young female researchers in life and environmental sciences, material sciences, mathematics, computer and information sciences, engineering sciences, and technology. Researchers will receive $8 thousand to support their doctoral or postdoctoral research studies. The doctoral candidates must work in a research laboratory, institute, or university in South Africa. Applications have to be submitted by 20 May 2025.

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission

Distance Learning for Masters Courses in the UK

2025-05-20

The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships support distance learning Master’s degree courses offered in partnership with local providers in developing countries, as well as courses delivered directly by UK universities. The available offerings include agriculture; tropical forestry; veterinary medicine; environmental management; conservation and wildlife management; risk and disaster management; and others. Eligibility for support extends to Commonwealth citizens of developing Commonwealth countries, refugees, and British-protected persons. Applicants must be permanent residents of a developing Commonwealth country and meet the entry educational requirements. The application deadline is 20 May 2025.

Seeding Labs

Scientific Equipment for Research and Education

2025-05-23

Seeding Labs welcomes applications to participate in Instrumental Access. The program makes high-quality laboratory equipment and supplies more affordable to university departments in low- and middle-income countries. Seeding Labs receives donated equipment from a variety of sources, including research institutions and manufacturers. Applicants submit online requests for items included in the Seeding Labs equipment inventory. Items are mainly for biology and chemistry. The average value of the items included in a shipment, based on the secondary (used) market, is generally in the range of US$100 thousand. The recipient organizations are charged a fee (based on their country's income level) for program administration, equipment warehousing, equipment packing, and ocean freight. The deadline for submissions is 23 May 2025.

World Bank

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

2025-05-23

The JJ/WBGSP Scholarship Program provides scholarships to professionals from developing countries who are applying to a master's degree program in a development-related topic. Applicants must first apply for admission to one or more of the Partner Master’s Degree Programs to be eligible for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients receive travel allowance; tuition for the graduate program; basic medical insurance; and a monthly subsistence allowance to cover all living expenses (accommodations, food, etc., including books). The call has to applications windows, with deadlines on 28 February 2025 (Window #1) and 23 May 2025 (Window #2).

African Business Heroes

Business Heroes Competition 2025

2025-05-23

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 23 May 2025.

Youth4Climate

Solutions and Climate Action

2025-05-26

Youth4Climate aims to support the work of young people and youth-led organizations in five thematic areas: Climate and Environment Literacy, Sustainable Energy, Food and Agriculture, Nature Assets, and Sustainable Consumption & Production. Successful applicants will be awarded up to US$ 30 thousand to implement or scale their innovations. Proposals can be submitted in English, French, or Spanish. The application deadline is 26 May 2025.

Mastercard Foundation

Scholars Program at KNUST

2025-05-30

The Mastercard Foundation provides economically disadvantaged young people in Ghana and Africa with access to university education. The Scholars Program at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (Ghana) provides financial support (tuition, accommodation, learning materials, transportation, and monthly stipend) for studies in all subject areas; however, there is a preference for science students (including agriculture and natural resources). Applicants must prove critical economic needs to be eligible. Applications close on 30 May 2025.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Global Forestry Champions

2025-05-31

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) seeks to honor individuals, institutions, initiatives, and programs that have significantly impacted forestry development at national, regional, or global levels. Selected nominees will be recognized for their achievements across ten thematic areas, including forest restoration, biodiversity, climate action, and innovation. The call for nominations is open to governmental institutions; national, regional or local agencies; intergovernmental organizations; non-government organizations; academia; community service organizations; and the private sector. The deadline for receiving nominations is 31 May 2025.

BeChangeMaker

Social Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program

2025-05-31

BeChangeMaker is an online training program for social entrepreneurs. Participants gain access to tools and technology for start-ups, coaching, mentoring, and access to a diverse global network of potential investors. Interested social entrepreneurs have to form a team of 2-5 people between the ages of 18 and 35 years and present a social challenge they wish to address. Applications are open until 31 May 2025.

Okayama City

Education for Sustainable Development

2025-05-31

The Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Okayama Award rewards outstanding education for sustainable development practices in local communities around the world. The award aims to support the organizations carrying out ESD activities and promote the concept to local communities globally through showcasing their initiatives. Two projects will be selected to receive an award of US$3 thousand each. One representative of the winning projects will be invited to the Award Ceremony in Okayama (Japan). Organizations based in any country are eligible to apply. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2025.

Oak Spring Garden Foundation

Botanical Artist Residency Program

2025-05-31

The Oak Spring Garden Foundation supports botanical artists working nationally and internationally who can create beautiful and scientifically accurate depictions of plant species. This award includes a US$1,000 individual grant and a one to four-week residence at Oak Springs (USA) when spring is underway and the gardens and landscape are in bloom. Applicants must be early-career artists not enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in 2026. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2025.

Oak Spring Garden Foundation

Fellowship for Artistic Excellence

2025-05-31

The Oak Spring Garden Foundation awards the annual Eliza Moore Fellowship for Artistic Excellence to one early-career artist who is developing new works that address plants, gardens, or landscapes in the broad sense. The award includes a US$10 thousand individual grant and requires a 2 to 8-week stay at Oak Spring (USA). Applicants must be early-career artists not enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in 2026. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2025.

Oak Spring Garden Foundation

Interdisciplinary Residency Program

2025-05-31

The Oak Spring Garden Foundation hosts five separate five-week interdisciplinary residencies. Each session is designed to support eight artists, conservation practitioners, researchers, scholars, scientists, or writers who are pursuing work inspired by plants, gardens, and landscapes. Participants will receive a US$2 thousand individual grant and a five-week residence at Oak Springs (USA). Awardees cannot be currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program. The deadline for applications is 31 May 2025.

Beit Trust

Support for Community and Conservation Projects

2025-05-31

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

Skål International

Sustainable Tourism Awards 2025

2025-05-31

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

EU CALLS

LILAS4SOILS Open Call

2025-05-16

The LILAS4SOILS project supports the adoption of Carbon Farming practices aimed at improving soil health and contributing to climate change mitigation across Mediterranean and Southern European regions. Under this initiative, 50 farmers will be selected to receive a grant of €5,000 per year for three years, alongside technical support and tailored training.

Click to read MORE...

UNESCO: International Fund for Cultural Diversity 2025

2025-05-21

UNESCO is launching the 16th call for applications to IFCD. Through an open and competitive process, projects will be selected based on their ability to generate concrete and lasting results towards the development of the creative sectors in developing countries that are Parties to the 2005 Convention.

Click to read MORE...

WESTERN BALKANS YOUTH CULTURAL FUND (4TH OPEN CALL)

2025-05-15

The Regional Youth Cooperation Office is seeking applications for the Youth Cultural Fund to bring together the cultural scenes from across the region by supporting grass-roots cultural initiatives which will serve as a valuable contribution to foster regional cooperation and mutual understanding of intercultural dialogue, peacebuilding and reconciliation process.

Click to read MORE...

Find more EU calls HERE

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES

• Graduate student in need of funding for academic research. Read more and apply HERE 

• Funding & Tender Portal (EU) 
• 250 PhD Funded Positions at University of Padova, Italy in All Research Fields. Read More and Apply HERE 

Fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing in digital agriculture

Stronger institutional partnerships and knowledge co-creation will accelerate the digital agricultural revolution towards global food security, according to speakers at a side event on digital agriculture during the inaugural CGIAR Science Week that took place in Nairobi, Kenya from 7–11 April 2025.

Digital agriculture is the use of digital tools to collect, analyze, and share data and information in agriculture to increase food production efficiently and sustainably.

Discussions at the side event focused on how CGIAR centres and partners from the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme ex-Pillar 4 (CAADP-XP4) consortium are using digital platforms for knowledge sharing, learning, and engagement, and how best to leverage these platforms in the CGIAR Research Portfolio 2025–2030.

Opening Remarks.

In his opening remarks, Ram Dhulipala, interim director of the CGIAR Digital Transformation Accelerator, stated that in this age of digital innovation, it is only through partnership can we co-create knowledge.

Knowledge co-creation

Benjamin Abugri, Knowledge Management, Digitalization, and Learning Specialist at FARA, presented on the knowledge management partnership of CGIAR and CAADP-XP4 that led to the development of the African Agricultural Research Innovation and Education Space (ARIESpace) repository, a DSpace-based knowledge management system for African agricultural knowledge, based on best practice from CGIAR’s CGSpace repository.

Read Full Story 🔗HERE

The African Agricultural Research, Innovation, and Education Institutions (AARIEIs)

9 April 2025. To scale up research on food and nutrition security on the continent, several African agricultural organizations have formed an umbrella body called the African Agricultural Research, Innovation, and Education Institutions (AARIEIs).

The new umbrella body has been founded by the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA), the West and Central Africa Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF), the Center for Coordination of Agricultural Research for Development in Southern Africa (CCARDESA), the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), the North Africa Sub Regional Organization (NASRO) and the African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS). AARIEIs is expected to help them improve their linkages on research, extension and higher education.

• On climate change, the partnership plans to focus on joint research in crop and livestock breeding, soil health, regenerative and digital agriculture as part of strengthening collaborative research for sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural technologies.
• It will also have a joint development of climate-smart innovations, nature-positive agroecology, AI-driven precision agriculture, big data analytics, and policy-oriented research for food security and sustainable investment.
• It will emphasize technology transfer and scaling for impact, capacity sharing and development, monitoring, evaluation and learning, and resource mobilization in ensuring that Africa becomes self-sufficient in food production.
• AARIEIs will also establish regional innovation hubs and strengthen private sector linkages and ensure that agricultural technologies reach their intended users.
• It will also promote community-driven technology adaptation, delivery and extension services throughout Sub Saharan Africa (SSA).

At the CGIAR Science Week, the African Agricultural Research, Innovation & Education Institutions (AARIEI) signed a Partnership Engagement Framework with the CGIAR to foster research, innovation, capacity building, and impact-driven solutions to support Africa’s agricultural transformation. 

• The two organizations now have a guiding structure to strengthen collaboration that is expected to foster strategic partnerships, knowledge exchange, and joint innovation efforts.
• It will help enhance partnerships between CGIAR and AARIEIs for joint research, innovation, and policy influence, and also align development agenda with the AU Agenda 2063, CAADP-Kampala Strategy, CGIAR 2025-2030 research strategy, and regional agricultural policies.
• The organization aims to drive a culture shift toward more equal and healthy partnerships for capacity sharing between and among CGIAR and partners advancing food, land, and water systems transformation.

Emphasis will also be put on enhancing research infrastructure within AARIEIs, fostering South-South collaboration and peer learning, and expanding digital learning and open knowledge platforms to facilitate information sharing and skill development.

Related:

11 April 2025. Strengthening Africa’s Seed Systems: AU Calls for Harmonisation and South–South Cooperation.

At the recently concluded CGIAR Science Week side event titled “Breeding for Tomorrow: Inclusive Delivery,” Ms Beatrice Egulu from the African Union Commission (AUC) delivered a compelling address, advocating for deeper continental integration and innovation in seed systems to ensure equitable access and regional impact. The high-level panel session, held at the United Nations Office in Nairobi, brought together prominent voices from the African agricultural sector under the theme of “Inclusive Delivery”, a strategic framework aimed at transforming breeding programmes for greater reach, uptake, and farmer impact.

Ms Egulu highlighted the disparity between promising regional frameworks—such as the COMESA Variety Catalogue, ECOWAS seed regulations and SADC’s Harmonised Seed Regulatory System – and their actual implementation. Despite protocols for mutual recognition, numerous African countries continue to impose redundant variety testing, outdated national laws, and limited regulatory capacity, thereby hindering access to improved varieties.

South-South Cooperation (SSC): A Strategic Pathway to Scale

Discussing the significance of South–South Cooperation, Ms Egulu described it as a cornerstone for democratizing agricultural innovation in Africa. She noted that SSC facilitates the exchange of technologies and institutional best practices—from East African seed traceability systems inspired by Asia to participatory breeding models adapted across African regions.

“SSC is not just a tool. It is a pathway to shared sovereignty and resilience in seed systems.”

To institutionalise these gains, she called for:

• Integrating the SSC into the African Seed and Biotechnology Programme (ASBP) and the framework of the CAADP-Kampala Declaration.
• Utilising triangular cooperation to mobilise financial and technical support.
• Mainstreaming SSC within broader frameworks such as STISA-2024 and the African Agribusiness Strategy.