The CAADP-XP4 Consortium, in collaboration with CGIAR, YPARD, and some National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) from West, South, and Central Africa, successfully hosted the fourth annual Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development (KM4AgD) Conference at the Lemigo Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda. This pivotal event, held from July 29 to 31, 2024, provided a platform to advance agricultural research and innovation across the continent, emphasizing Indigenous knowledge, climate-relevant agricultural transformation, and sustainable development.
CAAD-XP4 Coordinator, Dr. Baitsi Podisi (CCARDESA)
In his opening remarks, the CAADP-XP4 Coordinator at CCARDESA, Dr. Baitsi Podisi, speaking on behalf of the Consortium, praised the organizations for their exceptional work. “We need to adopt standards that will make KM a profession. We are happy to be part of this initiative. We have also tapped into the expertise of the best organizations that have helped us with the training,” he stated. He urged participants to integrate their newly acquired knowledge into their respective organizations and emphasized the importance of accurate information packaging for agricultural decision-making. He also acknowledged the EU, IFAD, and other partners for their continued support, expressing optimism for positive outcomes from the KM4AgD Challenge and Conference.
Mr. Benjamin Abugri, speaking on behalf of the CAADP-XP4 Knowledge Management Working Group and Prof. Andreas Brandner, the lead facilitator and Executive Director for the Knowledge for Development Partnership (K4DP), highlighted that the conference aimed to validate KM concepts and briefs developed by participants, recognize their achievements, induct 21 new members into the Community of Practice, and discuss the draft outline of the inaugural 2025 Knowledge Management Report for Africa. The event also fostered discussions on advancing knowledge management in Africa’s agri-food systems and generated stakeholder commitments.
KM4AgD24 Candidate Melika Vodounhessi presenting outputs from the KM4AgD24 Challenge
During the conference, graduates presented various briefs on capturing Indigenous Knowledge, knowledge hubs, knowledge linkages and partnerships, and knowledge inclusion, as well as presented draft organizational and national KM strategies from the National Agricultural Council (ARC) of South Africa, National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI) of Botswana, Ministry of Agriculture of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Centre National de Recherche Agronomique (CNRA) of Cote d’Ivoire, Institut de Recherche Agricole Pour le Developpement (IRAD) of Cameroun, Institut Tchadien de Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement (ITRAD) of Chad and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN).
Certified 2024 CAAD-XP4 Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development Managers
Representing the Sustainable Land Management for Sub-Saharan Africa (INTERFACES) intervention, Wilfrid Adjimoti discussed exploring women’s land access challenges and the importance of secure land tenure for economic and social empowerment. Dorcas Sanginga Alame highlighted pathways to organic fertilization through the documentation of successful models for crop residue management. Melika Voudounhessi and Kisito Gandji focused on advancing the right selection of crops considering climate and soil data. At the same time, Narcisse Yehouenou presented micro-dosing as a promising sustainable soil fertility management practice for food security in sub-Saharan Africa. Other key highlights of the presentation of outputs from the 2024 KM4AgD Challenge at this conference were the Knowledge Management Strategies for Civil Society Organizations by Mabel Shu and for the IITA and ILRI of the CGIAR presented by Bosede Ayinla, Sharon Abiodun, Pamela Wairagala and Marius Assogba.
The 21 graduates presented their knowledge management products (briefs and strategies), showcasing their hard work and dedication. The outputs from the KM4AgD Challenge were validated, highlighting the innovative approaches taken by the participants.
Certified 2024 CAAD-XP4 Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development Managers
Mrs. Bridget Kakuwa-Kasongamulilo and Mr. Benjamin Abugri presented the work CCARDESA and FARA have been doing regarding Malabo in the SADC region and the country-levelpromotions they have conducted in seven SADC countries since 2022. Mr. Peter Ballanytne, ILRI KM Consultant, spoke on the history of knowledge management in Africa, emphasizing the evolution of access to knowledge, from CD-ROMs and microfiche to free access portals and the Wayback Machine.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture for Sierra Leone, Dr. Theresa Teneh Dick
Deputy Minister of Agriculture in Sierra Leone, Dr. Theresa Teneh Dick, emphasized the importance of accurate information dissemination in her speech before presenting certificates to the graduates. “Don’t disseminate the wrong news. Be fair enough to speak the truth,” she urged, highlighting the value of integrity in communication. She congratulated the 21 graduates for attaining certification as knowledge management for agricultural development managers. Graduates received their certificates with jubilation and excitement, recognizing their commitment to advancing knowledge management in agriculture. These graduates were inducted into the Community of Practice for KM and Artificial Intelligence (AI), ensuring ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing. They officially have become Fellows of the KM4AgD Centers of Excellence at both continental and regional levels and would champion KM initiatives in their countries.
Ms. Tsehay, KM and Communications Specialist at ILRI, led a brainstorming session to inform the next research agenda of the CAADP-XP4 Consortium and CGIAR, providing a clear direction for future efforts. The conference also explored emerging issues and opportunities in KM for Africa’s agri-food systems, generating political and stakeholder support for integrating knowledge management as a development strategy.
Certified 2024 CAAD-XP4 Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development Managers
The 2024 KM4AgD Conference marks a significant step towards building Africa’s knowledge-based agricultural development framework, including a significant contribution to the AUC-led Post-Malabo discussions on Knowledge Management, Advocacy, and Communication under Working Group 12. CAADP-XP4 and its partners are committed to driving sustainable agricultural transformation across the continent by fostering collaboration, enhancing capacities, and integrating knowledge management strategies.
The Science and Partnerships for Agriculture Conference (SPAC) is a platform that brings together Africa’s food and agriculture research and innovation stakeholders for lesson sharing, networking, and the identification of solutions and practical actions needed to enhance research’s development impact.
The second edition of SPAC (SPAC2024) was held in Kigali, Rwanda, from July 29 to 31, 2024. It was organised by the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB). Over 390 stakeholders (41% women) attended the conference.
FARA and RAB wish to register their deep appreciation to all the contributors and participants in SPAC2024.
The conference concluded with a call to action, which, among others, called for:
Proactive practical actions to fast-track implementation of the African fertiliser and soil health action plan (2024-2034), transitioning to more sustainable and agroecological approaches and mainstreaming climate-smart agriculture. These actions are to be undertaken in line with the relevant continental policy frameworks.
Renewed commitment to scaling agricultural technologies and innovations to millions of farmers and small agribusinesses drawing on the proven possibilities offered by innovation platforms and innovation-driven programmes such as the AfDB-supported Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) and the EU-supported DeSIRA programme.
Fast-tracking the harmonisation of policies and regulations to enhance intra-continental trade and competitiveness of agriculture products and services.
Coordinated policies for promoting the generation and sharing of indigenous and inclusive knowledge, plus a mechanism for tracking progress in agricultural innovation across the continent.
Strengthened mechanisms for coordination and accountability in Africa’s agricultural research and innovation domain.
The Rwanda Agricultural Board (RAB) and the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) announce the Second edition of the Science and Partnerships for Agriculture Conference (SPAC), a congregation of global leaders and partners in agriculture seeking to address pertinent issues affecting agricultural productivity and sustainability in Africa.
The 2024 edition of the Science Partnerships for Agriculture Conference #SPAC2024, is set to take place from July 29 to July 31, 2024, at the Lemigo Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda. This year’s conference promises to be a landmark event, featuring an array of critical convenings that will address strengthening agricultural research and technology innovation and develop “Partnerships for food system transition under climate change, soil health, and the biodiversity crisis” in African agriculture, ensuring productivity and sustainability.
#SPAC2024 will host the Third Biennial Africa Climate Smart Agriculture Conference, the Fourth Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development (KM4AgD) Conference, the Scaling and Futures Meetings, Policy and Partnerships workshops, the DeSira Connect Conference and a Soil Initiative for Africa (SIA) Technical Workshop on Climate Change and Soil Health, among other side events as part of #SPAC2024 proceedings.
#SPAC2024 will offer the unparalleled opportunity to engage high-level individuals in African and European agriculture and address emerging issues that significantly impact the African continent. The main conferences at #SPAC2024 will provide essential technical and policy information through various engagements. The first edition of #SPAC was held in Accra, Ghana in 2022.
A snapshot of High Level Delegates at SPAC2022 Opening Plenary in Accra, Ghana
SPAC2024 Conference Highlights:
The 3rd Biennial Africa Climate Smart Agriculture Stakeholders Conference (CSA), under the theme: “Optimizing CSA for Agroecology Transition, Biodiversity Conservation, and Youth Engagement in African Agriculture” will present opportunities for the stewardship of CSA actions, focusing on technology generation and foresight analysis, a continental dialogue on the Africa Climate Smart Framework (ACSAF) in preparation for CoP27 in Egypt, as well as a stakeholders’ consultation for the Soil Initiative for Africa (SIA) and a High-Level Technical Think-Tank meeting to address emerging technological issues.
The 4th Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development Conference (KM4AgD): “Scaling Up Successful Knowledge Management Models for Agricultural Development in Africa”; An annual event by CAADP-XP4 organizations aiming to build capacities, establish knowledge management communities of practice, and accelerate the achievement of CAADP Malabo goals by 2025 and the SDGs by 2030, implemented through an integrated, strategic, educational, and transformational approach, aiming to strengthen the capacity of knowledge management experts in Africa.
The Scaling and Futures Conference: “From Innovation to Transformation: Leveraging TAAT to Build Thriving Food Systems in Africa” will discuss strategies for scaling transformative technologies and improving food system productivity and resilience as well as side event engagements with the Africa Foresight community of practice for enhanced learning and development.
The Policy and Partnerships Conference: ‘Scaling Research and Innovation Outcomes in AR4D-Coherent Policies and Partnerships Matters’ will focus on scaling research and innovation outcomes through coherent policies and partnerships and also present platforms to explore improving food systems via AR4D policies and partnerships, identifying gaps, and addressing challenges.
The DeSIRA Connect Conference will bring together various projects to share success stories and knowledge and joint development of policy outputs and communication strategies for sustainable agricultural transformation.
The SIA Technical Workshop on Climate Change and Soil Health convenes key experts to review critical documents and actions needed to implement strategies for climate change adaptation and soil health improvement.
Join us in Kigali for SPAC 2024 and be part of the movement to transform African agriculture, food system, and agribusiness. You can also join the event online by pre-registering at https://events.faraafrica.org/virtual/.
The event will also be streamed live via all FARA social media pages with the hashtag #SPAC2024
For more #SPAC2024 media information, kindly contact:
The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) is an umbrella organization bringing together and forming coalitions of major stakeholders in agricultural research and development in Africa. FARA complements the innovative activities of national, international and sub-regional research institutions to deliver more responsive and effective services to its stakeholders. It plays advocacy and coordination roles for agricultural research for development, while the national agricultural research systems (NARS), advanced research institutions (ARIs) and international agricultural research centres (IARCs) develop and promote the adoption of improved technologies and policies along the research-to-development continuum in their respective countries and jurisdictions. Since it was established in 2002, FARA has been able to develop several African-wide initiatives through consultation with stakeholders with recent and ongoing initiatives including the Agriculture Research and Innovation for Africa (ARIFA), the Common Africa Agro Parks (CAAPs), the Soils Initiative for Africa (SIA), the Pan Africa Network of Analysis of Policies (PANAP), the AU-EU International Research Consortium (IRC), the Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development in Africa (KM4AgD), amongst others. These initiatives are helping shape and transform agriculture in Africa and contributing to the achievement of the targets of the CAADP Malabo 2025 and the SDGs 2030.
The technical delivery of FARA’s work is structured into four Clusters, namely, Innovation to Impact Partnerships and Systems (2IPS), Research Policy and Investments (RPIn) Knowledge Management, Digitalization and Learning (KMDL) and Institutional Capacity & Future Scenarios (ICF). These clusters are also host to several donor funded projects and initiatives.
2 Objectives of the assignment:
This is a long-term assignment to engage an individual as Graphics Designer and Visualization Expert to support the organization to deliver quality knowledge, information and communication products in line with FARA’s value proposition. He/she shall be guided by the FARA branding guidelines and in compliance with relevant graphics design policies and guidelines.
Reporting to the Communication Expert the successful candidate shall be guided by the following terms of reference:
3 Scope of work
Generating designs from concept stage to final delivery for print, electronic, web-based content and social media.
Create visually appealing and informative graphics such as charts, graphs, infographics, and dashboards.
Use design principles to make data easily understandable. This includes design of infoparks (one pagers, trifolds, etc) of FARA’s projects and initiatives.
Support the designs and layout of publication mechanisms at FARA including Research Reports, Dissemination Notes, Policy Briefs, etc. for publication in the FARA library.
Design and layout annual reports and other relevant reports
Work closely with the social media officer to ensure that contents shared are of quality and consistent.
Layout and design of reports and other information and communication materials (banners, posters, booklets, leaflets, book chapters, calendars, brochures, newsletter, bulletins, flyers, cards) for printing and
electronic distribution
Support the required designs and visibility for major FARA events and workshops
Provide support and troubleshooting for visualization tools and software
Design visualizations with the FARA end-user in mind, ensuring ease of use and accessibility
Conduct user testing and gather feedback to improve visualizations using the various FARA channels including Dgroups, social media, websites
Implement the graphic guidelines in all FARA communication products.
Each assignment shall be accompanied by detailed specifications for each individual assignment to be delivered.
4 Required
The successful individual is required to meet the following criteria:
Must be a graphic designer with at least 5 years’ experience in designing and layout of information and communication materials
A degree in graphic design or related field.
Show a clear and mature style of design, demonstrating an understanding of the communication requirements of FARA.
Proven experience of graphic production from start to published/printed product with knowledge of printing processes (offset and digital) and colour management.
Good understanding of new and evolving technologies and digital platforms.
Additional experience with videography and photography is preferred.
Technical Skills
Proficiency in data classification and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
Knowledge of graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop)
Understanding of data analysis techniques and tools (e.g., SQL, Python, R)
Additional experience in videography and photography
Design Skills
Strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and typography
Ability to create clean, engaging, and user-friendly designs
Analytical Skills
Ability to interpret and analyze complex data sets
Critical thinking to identify key insights and trends
5 Deliverables
Quality design for various assignments completed in line with FARA communication and branding requirements and within specified deadlines.
6 Duration
The contract will be for an initial year (1) year period with an option to extend to a specified period of time subject to satisfactory performance by the service provider and the continued need for the service.
7 Location
The successful candidates shall be based at the FARA Secretariat in Accra.
8 Applications
Qualified candidates are invited to submit via email comprehensive Curriculum Vitae together with a cover letter and names/contact details of three referees. The application should include capability statement with brief explanation of the understanding of the assignment describing the qualifications and experience, including copies of catalogue or samples of design work previously done (minimum of 10 samples and links). List of clients that the individual has served in the past. The application should be sent to: Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA, PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana, Email: [[email protected]].
Applications will be assessed against the required skills, experience and aptitudes set out above. Applications will be accepted up to Friday, 19th July 2024. Due to anticipated high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
9 FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Employment:
There is no discrimination on the basis of gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability or health status.
NB: Please quote in your application the reference code “DESIGN AND VISUALIZATION EXPERT’ in the subject line.
FARA is the continental apex body for agricultural research and innovation in Africa and a technical organisation of the African Union Commission and the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD on matters concerning agricultural research and innovation. Its mission is to contribute to generating high, broad-based and sustainable agricultural growth by catalyzing improvements to the productivity and competiveness of the sector through increased and effective application of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). FARA executes its mission by performing the following functions: (i) advocacy for increased and more effective deployment of STI in agriculture which is a necessary condition for achieving national and continental development goals; (ii) facilitating partnerships among research, innovation and agribusiness actors within Africa as well as between Africa and external regional or national entities to enhance the generation and scaling of technologies; (iii) convening stakeholders; (iv) facilitating the development and implementation of continental initiatives and programmes that respond to the continent’s priorities; (v) strengthening the institutional and systemic capacities for agricultural innovation; and (vi) facilitating the exchange of information, knowledge and learning in STI for agriculture. The Secretariat of FARA is based in Accra, Ghana.
The effectiveness of FARA in executing its mission strongly relies on the communication function. FARA is seeking an innovative, dynamic, multi-skilled and experienced Communication Expert.
2 Purpose
The primary responsibility of the communication expert is to coordinate actions aimed at enhancing understanding of organisation’s mission as well as its impact, visibility and voice by providing technical leadership of the update and implementation of the organization’s communication and visibility strategy.
Reporting in the interim to the Executive Director, the successful candidate shall inter-alia perform the following duties and responsibilities:
3 Duties and Responsibilities
Strategy update and implementation
Conduct an assessment of FARA’s communication needs and use the findings to update its communication, visibility and social media strategy to ensure it responds to FARA’s mission and objectives and includes a clear dissemination, exploitation and communication (DEC) plan.
Develop branding guidelines
Identify key messaging and communication channels to effectively reach the intended stakeholders.
Coordinate the implementation of the DEC plan to ensure consistent and timely delivery of messages.
Monitor performance of the communication function and make the necessary adjustments to the communication plan.
Content Creation, Management and Quality Assurance
Create engaging and informative content for various communication channels, including website, social media, newsletters, roller stands, posters, reports and presentations.
Conduct research and gather relevant information to develop accurate and compelling content. Translate research and reports into visual materials
Contribute to visual and digital communications, including photo gathering and editing, graphic creation and presentation, and other multi-media editing, including video and audio.
Serve as editor of FARA’s website and social media channels, providing quality assurance, tone, and consistency of online materials, core messaging, and web-enabled stakeholder engagement.
Manage and update corporate (e.g. annual report) and project communication materials, ensuring consistency and adherence to branding guidelines.
Oversee quality assurance for all editorial output and content creation of all communication materials of FARA intended for publication.
Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Building
Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, partners, and key stakeholders.
Coordinate publicity campaigns for major events convened by FARA. This may include the mobilization and training of social media reporters.
Engage with stakeholders to gather feedback, address inquiries, and ensure effective communication flow.
Any other duties within the scope of communication and media relations as assigned by Management.
4 Education and Experience
At least a master’s degree in applied communication, journalism, public relations, or related field and experience.
Proven experience in conducting corporate communication audits/ assessments and crafting communication and branding strategies and plans
A good knowledge and understanding of African Agricultural development issues.
A minimum of five years’ experience in a related communications, marketing or journalist role and/or science writing and editing.
Demonstrable experience of representing an organisation in public or/and media relations, advocacy or marketing campaigns and excellent public-speaking skills.
Hands-on experience in writing speeches, resolutions, bulletins, reports, scientific papers and presentations. Proven writing and editing skills in English.
Knowledge and applied work experience in social media, specifically in the design and execution of plans for assuring that online communication and audience engagement tools and channels are fully leveraged. Strong ICT skills are essential.
Knowledge and experience in the monitoring and evaluation of the communication function.
Experience with TV/video production, including scriptwriting and/or camera work is an advantage.
5 Languages
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French is an advantage.
6 Duration of Assignment
This assignment is for an initial period of one year and is renewable upon availability of funds and effective delivery of outputs.
7 Location of the Assignment
The consultant will work physically from the office of FARA, located at 7 Flower Avenue, Achimota Mile 7, Accra, Ghana.
8 Application
Candidates that meet the requirements are invited to submit via email their comprehensive Curriculum Vitae together with a motivation letter and names/contact details of three referees to: Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA, PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana.
Email: [[email protected]] Applications will be accepted up to Friday, 19th July 2024. Please use the job title and reference in the subject line of your email.
Due to anticipated high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications which do not meet the stated criteria will be rejected.
FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Employment
There is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability or health status.
