University of Nairobi and ACIAR forge Partnership to Advance Agricultural Research
The University of Nairobi hosted a high-profile delegation from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) to discuss a collaborative initiative aimed at advancing agricultural research in Kenya. The discussions focused on strengthening research capabilities, fostering innovation, and addressing key agricultural challenges affecting smallholder farmers in Kenya and the wider Eastern and Southern Africa region.
ACIAR, an Australian government agency under the Foreign Affairs and Trade Portfolio, specializes in agricultural research for development. The organization plays a pivotal role in supporting agricultural advancements through strategic partnerships across Africa. According to ACIAR’s 10-Year Strategy (2018–2027), the institution is committed to promoting food security, poverty reduction, and climate-resilient agricultural systems key areas that align with the University of Nairobi’s research priorities.
The collaboration will prioritize irrigated farming systems, climate adaptation strategies, biosecurity, and sustainable crop and livestock production. Additionally, the initiative will encourage technology transfer and innovation investment, leveraging Australia’s expertise in dryland agriculture to support Kenyan farmers.
The University of Nairobi, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and impactful research, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. The institution’s leadership emphasized that this collaboration will enhance research funding, knowledge exchange, and practical solutions to pressing agricultural challenges.
With ACIAR currently investing 10% of its annual budget in Eastern and Southern Africa, this engagement with the University of Nairobi marks a significant step in strengthening regional agricultural research and development. The partnership is expected to yield long-term benefits, including improved productivity, resilience to climate change, and increased economic opportunities for smallholder farmers.
As the discussions progress, both institutions have committed to developing a framework for joint research projects, capacity-building initiatives, and policy-driven solutions that will contribute to Kenya’s agricultural transformation.
