The Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA) convened an important workshop to finalize the full proposal on the Agroecology Regional Multi-Actor Research Networks (RMRN). This followed a competitive process of identifying a consortium to lead a SADC network. The event, hosted at the Avani Hotel in Gaborone, Botswana, from 9th to 13th September 2024, brought together experts and representatives from consortium member institutions involved in partnering towards advancing agroecological practices across Southern Africa and beyond.
The workshop's main goal was to provide a platform for stakeholders to share information and guide the finalization of their joint proposal to meet the funding requirements. The proposal is led by a consortium of eight institutions, including the University of Cape Town (UCT) from South Africa, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources from Malawi, and Sokoine University of Agriculture from Tanzania. This initiative is part of a larger continental commitment by various actors supported by the EU to promote sustainable agriculture through a transition towards agroecology, a practice that emphasizes ecological principles in farming.
In his opening remarks, CCARDESA's Executive Director, Professor Cliff Dlamini, underscored the importance of this initiative, noting that agroecology is becoming increasingly relevant in addressing food security and environmental sustainability. "CCARDESA is already making significant strides in this area and is therefore honoured to support the advancement of the agroecology agenda alongside the UCT-Led Consortium, he said. “This program arrives at a critical moment, complementing other frameworks that promote sustainable agricultural practices. By adopting a scientific approach, this initiative will provide the necessary tools and knowledge to enhance agroecological practices across the region.”
Prof. Dlamini further emphasized the need for strong collaboration among the consortium members, highlighting the importance of clarifying specific roles to ensure the project's success. "I place full confidence in CCARDESA to drive this program forward," he said, adding, "However, it is essential that the consortium work together to clarify key aspects of the program, ensuring alignment and mutual understanding."
Dr. Ndavi Malu an expert contracted by DeSIRA-LIFT to facilitate the workshop acknowledged the uncertainties ahead in the implementation of the project but stressed the importance of learning through trial and error. "We know the direction but not the exact path," he remarked, emphasizing that the implementation phase will be a continuous learning process. He highlighted CCARDESA's key role in coordinating the project based on its mandate, with a budget allocation of EURO 5.25 Million. CCARDESA will also manage all correspondence with the EU delegation. Dr. Malu underscored the importance of working in tandem with the consortium of universities, noting that while CCARDESA must take the lead, the other consortium members cannot move forward independently. He reminded everyone of the project’s December deadline, urging participants to remember the EU's holiday schedules in August and December.
Mr. Tebogo Matlhare, the EU Representative, reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting agroecology, especially in exploring its intersection with digitization. "We envision a future where even a rural woman in KwaZulu-Natal can access digital technologies," he stated, while also emphasizing the need to protect the environment. Mr Matlhare shared that the EU is considering a direct award contract with CCARDESA, recognizing the organization’s monopoly, mandate, and technical expertise in implementing this crucial component. He expressed satisfaction with the level of interest from stakeholders and looked forward to fostering deeper collaboration throughout the process.
Dr. Podisi highlighted the diverse potential activities of the Agroecology Regional Multi-Actor Research Network (RMRN) Consortium, emphasizing its role in advancing agroecological knowledge across Africa. He pointed out that the consortium aims to produce high-quality, multi-disciplinary research, develop scientific tools and methods, and establish robust knowledge management systems. "Our focus is not only on research but on providing tools that can be applied in the field to promote sustainable practices," he stated. The consortium will also support PhD programs and provide scientific and technical training to researchers, while strengthening networking among members and other actors.
In addition, Dr. Podisi noted the consortium's plans to contribute to higher education curricula, provide knowledge and services to practitioners and policymakers, and organize events to raise awareness and promote the uptake of agroecological practices. "By working with universities and practitioners, we ensure that our findings are implemented in a way that brings about meaningful change," he said. The consortium's wide-ranging efforts aim to build a strong foundation for sustainable agriculture through research, education, and practical application.
Representing the European Commission’s Directorate of International Partnerships (INTPA), Mr. Faure Guy, echoed these sentiments. He praised the proposal, which he said holds tremendous potential for enhancing agroecological processes. "There is a lot of potential in increasing agroecological processes, particularly in fixing nitrogen, and it presents a huge avenue to expand agroecology," Mr. Guy remarked. He added that African universities are key players in making agroecological technologies accessible and beneficial to local communities.
Mr. Guy also highlighted the importance of collaboration, not only within the consortium but also with external stakeholders such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and networks like FARA (Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa) and RUFORUM (Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture). "We need to support institutional efforts like those of CCARDESA, which will play a pivotal role in managing, coordinating, and ensuring accountability in this project," he said.
The workshop aimed to address several specific objectives, including refining the project budget, clarifying CCARDESA's roles and responsibilities as the grant recipient, and ensuring that all necessary activities are incorporated into a comprehensive project plan to be submitted for review by the EU Delegation in Gaborone and the European Commission (INTPA).
Also speaking at the event, Prof. Rachel Wynberg from the University of Cape Town, the consortium's lead institution, acknowledged the project's complexity and the importance of collaboration. "There is still a lot of work to do, particularly in addressing governance issues and ensuring that we meet the expectations of both the consortium and our partners," she noted.
As the workshop deliberations concluded, participants left with a clear path toward successfully implementing the Agroecology RMRN project. The meeting also addressed the need of involving local farming communities in the design and implementation of activities aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices throughout the region. CCARDESA and DeSIRA-LIFT co-hosted the workshop through support from the European Union.
