The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has partnered with Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) under the Japan-Africa Research Networking Project, a collaboration set to run from December 2025 to November 2029. This initiative is aimed at strengthening scientific research and innovation across Africa, positioning JKUAT and the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation (PAUSTI) as key hubs for technological advancement and sustainable development on the continent.

The partnership seeks to establish a sustainable research network, connecting African and Japanese universities, as well as private sector stakeholders, to foster joint research initiatives that address Africa’s socio-economic challenges. By focusing on local implementation, the project is designed to ensure that the solutions developed are contextually relevant, encouraging homegrown innovation and promoting scientific excellence.

Speaking during a strategic meeting at JKUAT on February 3, 2024, JICA delegation leader Mr. Mochizuki Hiroshi emphasized the project’s potential to create a transformative impact on Africa’s scientific landscape. He noted that the collaboration merges Japan’s technological expertise with Africa’s research capabilities, paving the way for groundbreaking solutions to global challenges. The meeting also served to finalize the project design matrix, outlining key deliverables such as academic exchanges, joint research programs, and capacity-building initiatives.

A significant aspect of this initiative is its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in science and technology. The project seeks to promote inclusivity within academic and research institutions, ensuring that women and underrepresented groups are actively engaged in developing solutions to Africa’s most pressing scientific challenges.

JKUAT’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ikua, described the partnership as transformative, stressing its potential to bridge knowledge gaps, enhance interdisciplinary research, and foster global scientific collaboration. He underscored that such initiatives are essential for driving Africa’s research and innovation agenda forward, ultimately positioning the continent as a global leader in technological advancement.

Beyond fostering international collaboration, the partnership also places a strong emphasis on mentoring and training young African researchers. Prof. Robert Kinyua, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Project Manager, highlighted the initiative’s role in building Africa’s research capacity and advancing technological innovation. He noted that by equipping young researchers with the necessary skills and resources, the program is investing in Africa’s future scientific leaders, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the continent’s evolving challenges.

Expressing gratitude for the collaboration, Prof. Hiroshi Koaze, Project Advisor for Africa-ai-Japan, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting African research institutions. He acknowledged JKUAT’s dedication to fostering long-term partnerships with Japanese universities, emphasizing the need for sustained collaboration to ensure the initiative’s success and long-term impact.

By harnessing Japan’s technological expertise and Africa’s research potential, the Japan-Africa Research Networking Project is expected to develop sustainable, locally-driven solutions to global challenges. As the initiative unfolds, it is anticipated to create a robust research ecosystem, ensuring Africa is not only a participant but a leader in global scientific and technological advancements.

 

Article by Jed Mwangi

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https://www.jkuat.ac.ke/jica-project-to-strengthen-research-capacity-at-jkuat/