www.atpsnet.org
Issue No 0006

September 2016

ISBN 978-9966-030-89-4

AFRICAThis is the official newsletter of the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)

A Snapshot of the Proposed ATPS New Strategic
Plan 2016-2020
Nigeria Launches a New Agricultural Policy
Why Africa should put much Emphasis on Science,
Technology and Innovation

African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)

www.atpsnet.org

ATPS Vision:
To become the leading international centre of excellence and reference in science, technology andinnovation systems research, training and capacity building, communication and sensitization, knowledge
brokerage, policy advocacy and outreach in Africa.
ATPS Mission:
To improve the quality of science, technology and innovation systems research and policy making in
Africa by strengthening capacity for science and technology knowledge generation, communication anddissemination, use and mastery for sustainable development in Africa.
Overall Objective:
To develop Africa’s STI capacity (knowledge basis & infrastructure, knowledge circulation & networks,
knowledge conditions & policies) today for sustainable African development tomorrow.
ATPS Motto:
Building Africa’s capabilities in science, technology and innovation policy research, policymaking andpolicy implementation for sustainable development.

INSIDE• ATPS Holds its 2016 Stakeholders’ Forum• A Snapshot of the Proposed ATPS New Strategic Plan
(2016-2020)• You Are What You Eat: Demystifying Facts on Nutrition and
Health Perspectives• How can Value Chain and Value Chain Finance be madeFunctional in Africa?
• ATPS Policy Study on Regulatory Harmonization of
Veterinary Products’ Registration in East Africa• Nigeria Launches a New Agricultural Policy• Hinging the Vibrancy of ATPS Chapter on Linkages andGroomed Youth: Lessons from ATPS Uganda Chapter• Youth and Entrepreneurship• Automatic Solar Irrigation Management System• Kenya’s Roadmap towards the Implementation of SDGs
• Kenyan Farmer Reaping Big from Banana Tissue Culture
Business• Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development in Africa:
The Role of AYFST• Going Green: A Panacea for Climate Change Menace inAfrica• My Experience as an Intern at the ATPS
• AAIN to Drive Agribusiness Agenda in Africa• Why Africa should put much Emphasis on Science, Technology and Innovation• 6th Tokyo International Conference on African Development(Nairobi Declaration)• Grants Received by the ATPS during the Quarter• Scholarships/Opportunities
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EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor in Chief:
Dr. Nicholas Ozor
Editor:Ms. Sharon Anyango
Contributors:
Dr. Nicholas Ozor

Prof. Michael Madukwe
Dr. Catherine Kunyanga
Dr. Mkapado Mmaduabuchukwu
Mr. Chibuzo Okpokiri
Eng. Victor Emeka
Mr. Arnold J. Ominde
Ms. Sharon Anyango
Dr. Ernest Nti Acheampong
Eng. Okuonzi John
Mr. Japheth Karisa
Mr. Hillary Ragen
Mr. Clive Owino
Design and Layout:
Ms. Sharon Anyango

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Chairman’s message

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGET

he capacity to innovate and bring innovation
successfully to the market is a crucial
determinant of global competitiveness andsustainable development. Developmentalists
have identified Science, Technology and Innovation(STI) agenda as one of the main drivers to economic
progress and well-being as well as a potential factor
in meeting global challenges such as environment,
food security, energy access, and health.
STI are paramount to the economic development andwell-being of any nation across the world. However,an STI-led development is a leadership endeavor.
This means that for STI development to thrive in any
country, there must be adequate political good willfrom the leadership to inform on favourable policies,
frameworks, programmes and budgets that will
precede the gains in terms of increased productivity,
job and wealth creation, and other socio-economic
and technological developments.

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak

For twenty two years in existence, ATPS can belauded for its efforts at improving the quality ofscience, technology, innovation system researchand policymaking in Africa by strengthening thecapacity of science and technology, knowledge
generation, communication and dissemination, use
and mastery of science for sustainable developmentin Africa. Today, ATPS is the leading policy research
Think Tank in Africa (see http://www.atpsnet.org/
media_centre/focus/atps-ranking-2016/index.php).
ATPS emerged tops according to a global survey
conducted by the University of Pennisylvania under
the Think Tank and Civil Societies Program. ATPS was
rated as the Best Think Tank Network, Best Managed
Think Tank, Think Tank with the best use of internet,
Think Tank with the most significant impact on public
policy, Best Institutional Collaboration involving
two or more Think Tanks, and Top STI Think Tank
among many others. The ATPS policy report/brief
on “Mainstreaming Gender in National Science,
Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy of Kenya”
was rated as the best policy report in Africa and 2nd
globally.

In the new proposed plan ATPS aims to adopt a
sector focused strategic approach with key focus in
Agriculture; Food and Nutrition; Health; Energy; andClimate Change and Environmental Management.
The target is to keep pace with developments in
new disruptive technologies and leverage the useof mobile phones, internet and other modular
technologies whose adoption will take advantage ofcosts.
I take this opportunity to sincerely thank alldelegates who attended the Stakeholders’ Forumfor working so hard to produce an excellent draft ofthe proposed ATPS Phase VIII Strategic Plan (20162020). As we finalize with the plan, we still encourage
stakeholders’ and development partners to sendin their contributions to the ATPS Secretariat forconsideration. We are optimistic that the plan will belaunched in no distant time.
On this note, I welcome our numerous partners,
donors, national governments to support our
proposed plan through core and thematic funding
for the implementation of programs and activities
in the plan. I thank all those who have supported us
already on the plan and solicit for more support toensure that the vision and mission of the premier
STI institution in Africa continues to be alive. I wish
to extend my gratitude to the Secretariat staff for
their commendable work and all those who havegreatly supported ATPS in the last few years throughdevelopment grants, linkages, partnerships andother collaborative activities.

ATPS convened the 2016 Stakeholders’ Forum on
29 July 2016 in Nairobi, Kenya to review the current
strategic plan (2013-2018) with a view to assessing
the progress made so far with the implementation
and reposition it for better achievement of the
ATPS mandate and objectives in line with national
priorities as well as the African Transformation
Agenda 2063, the Science, Technology andInnovation Strategy for Africa (STISA) 2024, andthe global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The proposed Strategic Plan aims at improving thefunctioning and understanding of STI policy research Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, PhD, FKIM, FAAS FASI,FTWAS,MBS
Director, Division for Africa, Department of Technical Coop.
together with other policymaking processes and alsoInternational Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Vienna, Austria
in strengthening capabilities, social responses andChair, ATPS Board of Directors
governance of STI-led sustainable development in
Africa.
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ED’s Message

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

W

here there is a vision, there is hope, isa common parlance! I am glad that our
vision at the ATPS towards becoming
the leading international centre of
excellence and reference in Science, Technology
and Innovation (STI) systems research, training andcapacity building, communication and sensitization,knowledge brokerage and policy advocacy is
progressively being realized.
It has been two years since my assumption of officeas the Executive Director at ATPS. We have continued
to live up to expectations in realizing the vision,
mission and objectives of the ATPS. We have madesolid progress in renewing relationships with manyof our partners, donors, national chapters and otherstakeholders of the ATPS. ATPS was consecutively
rated as the best Think Tank in Africa according to
the Global Go To Think Tank Index Report released
annually. Our efforts translate into improving theunderstanding and functioning of STI policy research,
policymaking and policy implementation forsustainable development in Africa. We promote thegeneration, dissemination, use and mastery of STI for
African development, environmental sustainability
and global inclusion.

Dr. Nicholas Ozor, ATPS Executive Director
health policies aimed at promoting availability ofeffective and affordable products among smallholder
farmers.

During the quarter, we held the 2016 ATPS
Stakeholders’ Forum where a new Strategic Plan
was proposed to the ATPS stakeholders. The newplan is being crafted to align with the current African
Union’s Agenda 2063 and particularly the Science,
Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA)
2024, and the global Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs). ATPS participated in the trending discussion
on “Biosciences for Farming in Africa” which was heldat the University of Cambridge, UK in September
2016. The forum reiterated on the need for African
governments to invest in bioscience innovations aspart of the strategy to end hunger, create jobs andincrease wealth. ATPS also made presentations during
the celebration of Science, Policy and Research Unit(SPRU), University of Sussex at 50 and emphasized on
the need for African-SPRU partnerships in promoting
STI policy in Africa.

We have also received a seed grant to build thecapacity of extension agents in Meru County, Kenyaon the use of the LandInfo mobile app technology
which the ATPS is out-scaling across Africa. This
project is being supported by the African Forum
for Agricultural Advisory Service (AFAAS). LandInfo
app enables farmers to determine the potential ofsoils at point-given locations and produce weather
information that will enable farmers take optimalfarm decisions based on the soil and climatic
information that the app provides.
Also during the quarter, I was selected to lead thedrafting of the African Capacity Report (ACR) 2016
on STI by the African Capacity Building Foundation(ACBF). This report has been duly delivered andwaiting for publication by the ACBF.

We have also concluded a policy scoping study on
regulatory harmonisation of veterinary products’
registration in East Africa Partner States. The study
conducted in partnership with the Global Alliancefor Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed),sought to identify strategies and mechanisms for
implementation of proposed mutual recognition
procedures within the EAC veterinary medicine
registration systems. The policy study will contributetowards strengthening GALVmed’s work in livestock

We thank all our donors and partners who havecontinued to support us to enable ATPS build Africa’s
capabilities in science, technology and innovation
for sustainable development in Africa. We continue
to solicit for your support and promise to deliver
the value to money on every initiative/project/programme entrusted to us.

Dr. Nicholas Ozor

Executive Director, ATPS4

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Stakeholders’ ForumATPS HOLDS ITS 2016 STAKEHOLDERS’ FORUM

Stakeholders converge in Nairobi, Kenya to discuss a New Strategy for the Implementation of ATPS workfrom 2016-2020.

T

By Sharon Anyango
he African Technology Policy Studies Network(ATPS) held its 2016 Stakeholders’ Forum on
29th July to review its current Phase VII Plan
(2013-2018) and align it with with the African
Union’s Agenda 2063, the Science, Technology andInnovation Strategy for Africa (STISA 2024), and the
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) so as toserve its numerous stakeholders’ better.

Another ATPS Board Member, Dr. Peggy Oti Boateng,lauded the ATPS for reviewing the current plan toalign it with STISA 2024 which was developed by
the African Union with the objective of accelerating
Africa’s transition to an innovation-led, knowledge
based economy within the overall framework of
the AU Agenda 2063. She emphasized on the needfor African countries to drive their agenda through
STI, SDGs and Science, Technology, Engineering andMathematics (STEM) education.

Mr. Chuma Ikenze, ATPS Board Member presented
the proposed new strategic plan which aims to use
Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) to address
problems in Agriculture; Food and Nutrition; Health;Environment and Climate Change; and Energy. He
noted these key sectors are critical to sustenanceof livelihoods as they also align with priority areas
and goals of STISA and SDGs respectively. With overtwo decades of experience working in STI policy
and development, ATPS is well placed to support
individuals, institutions, governments, and private
sectors by building their capacities to deploy STI acrossthe sectors to achieve sustainable development.

On the issue of climate change, Dr. Boatengemphasized on the need to build resilience capacities
and risk preparedness among vulnerable groups
including farmers and city dwellers. African countries
should not wait for disasters to happen before
they can take action. We should not be reactive in
our adaptation and mitigation efforts, rather, weshould make adequate plans and preparations
against anticipated impacts of climate change. ATPS
can support this effort through awareness creationand capacity building of relevant stakeholders’ toequip them with the requisite knowledge and skills
to accomplish adaptation and mitigation actions.
There is need for data and evidence that will support
policies and implementation in this regards.

Mr. Chuma also highlited five cross-cutting
components across the identified sectors which
include: STI Policy Research, Policymaking and
Advocacy; Training, Sensitization and Capacity
Building; Youth and Gender Empowerment;
Knowledge Brokerage, Facilitation of Adoption andCommercialization of STI Initiatives; and Intra-Africa
and Global Collaborations and Partnerships.

Dr. Nicholas Ozor, ATPS Executive Director highlighted
the achievement of ATPS for the period 20132016. He noted that since his appointment as the
Executive Director in August 2014, he and his teamhave been working tirelessly to accomplish two
major objectives. One, to rebuild and strengthen5

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Stakeholders’ Forum

relationships between ATPS and its stakeholders’including the national chapters, donors, partners,
staff and ex-staff, the entire members of the ATPS
network, and the general public that ATPS is meant
to serve in the continent and beyond and two, toraise funds to implement ATPS activities as containedin the ATPS Strategic Plan Document 2013-2018.
Dr. Ozor noted that he has been consistently reforming
the structure, governance, and effectiveness of the
ATPS to deliver optimally on its mandate. In 2015,
four new Board members namely; Mr. Chuma Ikenze,
Dr. Peggy Oti-Boateng, Dr. El Tayeb Mustafa, and Prof.
Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka were appointed to serve as
ATPS Board Members so as to strengthen the deliveryof ATPS mandate through strategic guidance andadvice. ATPS was also accredited as an implementing
partner of the African Union Commission for the
STISA 2024 leading to a close working relationshipwith the Commission.

Mr. Chuma Ikenze, ATPS Board Member presenting
the proposed New Strategic Plan to ATPS
Stakeholders.

Dr. Ozor and his team have also renewed andstrengthened relationships with previous donors,
partners, staff and ex-staff and this has continued
to boost the image and integrity of the ATPS. Few
months after his appointment, he was able to restore
the full diplomatic status for the ATPS in the hostcountry, Kenya. In order to improve communication
between the ATPS and its stakeholders’ he rebranded
ATPS newsletter, the Technopolicy Africa, which is
published every three months to showcase significant
achievements, activities and challenges faced during
the periods by the ATPS.

potential of the ATPS in Africa and beyond. In addition,
ATPS should utilize its linkage with the media on thecontinent to highlight its work and achievements inthe area of STI development.

Dr. Ozor further reported that the ATPS now has a
new chapter in Namibia and Tanzania. He pointed outthat efforts are under way to revitalize ailing chapters
as well as appoint new coordinators for some ATPS
Chapters in selected countries in order to boost theiractivities in the countries. He urged the ATPS National
ATPS also emerged tops for the second time in a Chapter Coordinators to reactivate themselves androw as the best Think Tank in Africa despite various source for funds to implement STI programs anddifficulties the organization has faced in the past few activities in their respective Chapters. They can
years. The ranking was done by the University of liaise with the Secretariat to achieve this feat. He
Pennsylvania under the Think Tank and Civil Societies requested those who have not been in contact with
Program. ATPS emerged as the best managed Think their members in their respective countries and subTank in Africa, best advocacy campaign Think Tank, regions to reactivate communications with them andbest networked Think Tank in Africa, Think Tank with reorganize their leadership towards achieving highthe most significant impact on public policy, best efficiency and effectiveness in the ATPS Network at
institutional collaboration involving two or more national, sub-regional and regional levels.
Think Tanks, Top Science and Technology Think Tank
in Africa, Think Tank with the most innovative policy In response, delegates at the Stakeholders’ Forumideas/proposals, and Think Tank with the best use of commended the current leadership of Dr. Ozor andhis team at the ATPS and pledged their full support tointernet in Africa.
the team to enable it achieve the mission, vision andFunding for the ATPS activities was among the top objectives of the ATPS. They confirmed the relevanceagenda during the Stakeholders’ Forum. Participants of ATPS as a pioneer institution in building Africa’s
urged ATPS to continue reaching out to numerous capabilities in STI policy research, policymaking anddonors interested in Africa’s development through policy implementation for sustainable development
STI and to increase its brand visibility to the public on the continent and noted that every ATPSby participating in forums, inviting potential donors stakeholder has a role to play to accomplish this
to workshops so that they are aware of the role and mandate.
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Stakeholders’ ForumA SNAPSHOT OF THE PROPOSED ATPS NEWSTRATEGIC PLAN 2016-2020

Stakeholders engage in discussions during the 2016 ATPS Stakeholders’ Forum.

T

By Dr. Nicholas Ozor

1. Agriculture, food and nutrition
2. Energy
3. Climate change and environmental management
4. Healthhe African Technology Policy Studies Network(ATPS) is in the process of developing a new
strategic plan for the implementation of its
activities for the next five years. The Phase
VIII Strategic Plan will be for a period from 2016
to 2020. The purpose of the plan is to realign ATPS
activities with the current African Union’s Agenda
2063 and particularly the Science, Technology andInnovation Strategy for Africa (STISA) 2024, andthe global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Most importantly, the plan proposes to prioritize the
ATPS stakeholders’ and national chapters’ priorities
identified during the several participatory fora anddialogues of ATPS stakeholders. The plan will also
be greatly enriched with lessons learnt from theimplementation of the ATPS Phase VII Strategic Plan.

Under the Agriculture, food and nutrition sector,
ATPS plans to identify and promote appropriatetechnologies and innovations for improving productivity and resilience, reducing waste and improving
value addition along the agricultural value chain
from farm to table. Thus, the focus of attention will
include innovations in the fields of farming systems
and technologies, biotechnology (i.e. seed and livestock technology/genetics), yield enhancement andloss control (i.e. fertilizers and pest control), as well
as social innovations such as farm information management systems and the use of Information andCommunication Technologies (ICTs such as smart
The plan has proposed a shift from the usual mobile telephones and satellite data, Geographicalprogrammatic approach to sectoral approach in Information Systems (GIS), etc. Already, the ATPS is
identifying African priorities for implementation. out-scaling an award winning LandInfo mobile app
In the sectoral approach, ATPS stakeholders have technology developed in partnership with partners
identified four sectors to focus on during the next under the leadership of the USDA-ARS. The app enafive years. These sectors have also all been prioritized bles farmers determine the potential of any given
by most national, regional, continental, and global piece of soil through the climatic and soil informadevelopment agenda including most African national tion that the app provides instantly. In the newdevelopment agenda/vision, the African Union strategic plan, ATPS hopes to continue its work in
Agenda 2063/STISA 2024, and the SDGs. They out-scaling the LandInfo mobile app across Africa bybuilding the capacity of extension agents and farminclude:ers on the use of the technology to support farm
decision-making on productivity, land-use manage7

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ment and resilience. Food, nutrition and health outcomes will also form a major focus for the ATPS in
the coming years under the current strategy.

Strategic Plan
research programs on innovations and policies forsustainable health delivery and health risk prevention, including health technology policy studies,and social innovations for advancing health andwellbeing in communities. Specific attention will be
paid to the use of Information and Communication
Technologies (ICTs) and social innovations for healthdelivery, risk prevention and mitigation. Potential
projects include : Telemedicine, e-medicine using
mobile telephone platforms and social networking
sites, indigenous approaches to nutrition for healthand wellness; mobile health diagnostics systems,
etc. We intend to support research and development on emerging diseases on the continent. ATPS
will advocate for regulatory harmonization of registration of pharmaceuticals and vaccines across regional blocs on the continent to ensure easy accessand free trade across borders.

Under the energy sector, ATPS aims to promoterenewable energy access and development on thecontinent. Lack of access to modern energy services (e.g. electricity and clean cooking facilities) andmassive dependence on fossil fuels have hampered
sustainable socio-economic development even as
the access to modern and reliable energy services isa critical human development priority. Incidentally,
the resource potentials of hydro, solar, wind andgeothermal energy resources in Africa present huge
supply side market opportunities for low carbon
technology development and technology transfer.
Available evidence shows that Africa has significant
comparative resource advantage to take a lead in
the global renewable energy markets if necessary
policy environments and the right incentives areprovided. ATPS will champion this course of scaling up energy infrastructure to strengthen energy
security and climate resilience on the continent by
providing necessary incentive structures, capabilities
and enabling policy environment for it to happen.

Whereas ATPS will focus on these four sectoral
areas, some cross-cutting activities have also been
identified for the achievement of desired impacts on
the sectors. These cross-cutting activities include:• STI policy research, policymaking and advocacy building capabilities, structures, and conditions
necessary for the democratic governance of STI,
formulation of policies, and effective policy implementation for sustainable development in Africa.
• Training, sensitization and capacity building enhancing individual and organizational STI skills
for African Development.
• Youth and gender empowerment - nurturing andharnessing the innovative potentials of African
youth and women, since they constitute the largest segment of the African population.
• Identifying and promoting locally developed STI
initiatives - brokering the adoption, commercialization and sharing of locally developed scientificknowledge, technologies and innovations forsustainable development.
• Intra-Africa and global collaboration and partnerships - developing new forms of intra-Africa andglobal partnerships within and amongst stakeholders for achieving Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) in Africa

Under the climate change and environmental
management sector, the ATPS hopes to strengthen
its longstanding efforts in building climate change
resilient capacities at individual, institutional andsystemic levels on the continent. We will continue topromote our Climate Sense Program (CSP) launchedin 2008 in partnership with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). CSP aims to:• Make Sense of Climate Science through effective
science communication;• Make Sense of Climate Economics through policy
analyses and translation of complex climate economics in ways that promote dialogue at all levelsof African society;• Make Sense of Climate Innovation through investment portfolio analyses and supporting the development of technologies and innovations for climate change adaptation, mitigation and resilience;and,• Make Sense of Climate Change Politics and Policy
making through scenario analyses, training andpolicies that support the development of sustain
able technologies and innovations for adaptationsuch as the renewable energy carriers and efficient
stoves.

The ATPS Board of Directors and Management takes
this opportunity to appreciate all our stakeholders,donors, and partners who have supported us thus
far in developing the new strategic plan. We welcome more inputs even as we finalize the new planby the end of 2016.

Under the health sector, ATPS plans to integrate8www.atpsnet.org

Health Perspectives

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT: DEMYSTIFYING FACTS ON
NUTRITION AND HEALTH PERSPECTIVES

hydrates, dietary fibre and a variety of micronutrients. Increased consumption of these foods has
been widely promoted, not only do they supply
macro and micronutrients but they also provide
many bioactive phytochemicals which are strongly
associated with health maintenance and preventionof chronic diseases. Consumers, especially thosefrom the middle and upper socio-economic classes
have become increasingly aware of health benefits
derived from consumption of health promoting
specialized foods found in the market.
There is also increasing willingness to pay for
additional safety of food products, and increasing
attention toward the overall safety of consumption
patterns, given a more widespread knowledge ofthe relation between food consumption patterns
and health status.

By Dr. Catherine N. Kunyanga
Lecturer, University of Nairobi
We rarely think about the consequences of thetypes and amounts of foods we eat, what you
choose to eat is one of the most important healthdecisions you can make.

Is there a Biblical Perspective on What we Eat?
My all favourite biblical quote “Daniel then said to
the guard whom the chief official had appointed
over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, “Please
test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but
vegetables or pulses to eat and water to drink. Thencompare our appearance with that of the young
men who eat the royal food, King’s meat, and treat
your servants in accordance with what you see.”
15…..At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men
who ate the royal food.” Daniel 1:11-13 (NIV)This proves that plant foods can help promotenutrition and health of many populations in Africa
and globally with positive outcomes. Many consumers may find it strange to think about eating as a
choice but it is.

M

any at times, consumers do not think
about what they are eating. In the
African set-up, most diets tend to be
driven by a myriad of factors namely;
hunger, appetite, cultural and social meaning offood, habit or custom, emotional comfort, convenience and advertising, nutritional value, social
interactions and accessibility.
Advertising continues to play an important role in
influencing consumption of foods. Nutrition information is rarely displayed on the labels of mostfood products; consumers therefore purchase andconsume these foods regardless of their cost without being oblivious of the possibility of them being
unwholesome or of lower nutritional and healthquality than indicated.

Choosing to live well is choosing to eat well. Whole
foods and nutritionally adequate diets such as avariety of vegetables and fruits as part of a mainly
plant-based diet can help one avoid four of the top
ten leading causes of premature death which are:heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes. A healthy
diet can help one look better and feel younger. In
addition to providing several nutrients for healthybalanced diets, plant based foods exert a healthprotective effect attributed mainly to antioxidants
and dietary fiber. These foods have potential as a
remedy to counter food insecurity since most are

The famous quote by Hippocrates that: “Let foodbe thy medicine” still guides most of the underlying
principles of nutrition. It is a proven fact that plantfoods i.e. cereals, legumes and vegetables havehelped to fulfill the ageless need to sustain bodyand soul. These foods play an important role in the
traditional diets of many developing countries; they
are low in fat, excellent sources of proteins, carbo9

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Health Perspectives

Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle
1. Eat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, wholegrains and low-fat foods.
2. Exercise for 20-30 minutes a day, 3-5
days/week
3. Maintain a healthy weight
4. Get a good night sleep
5. Manage stress (sex helps)
6. Moderate alcoholwell adapted to the local environment enablingthem to resist pests, drought and diseases.
In addition, plants possess macronutrients, aminoacids, lipids and minerals, which are natural components of many cereals, legumes, oil seeds, andvegetables and they play an important role inmaintaining their quality and determining nutritive
value in human diet. Policy interventions andnutrition education should focus on linking agriculture to positive nutrition and health outcomes.
Hence, in the efforts to address food and nutrition
security it is pertinent to take into consideration therole of plant foods in diseases and health. Climate
smart agriculture should therefore, incorporate
production of nutrition sensitive crops for positive
nutrition and health outcomes among various
populations in Africa.

Why Worry about What you Eat?
Globally, under nutrition and over nutrition are key
concerns of many nutritionists. These two scenarios
lead to risk of being underweight or overweight
which can be measured. The risks of being overweight and physically inactive are numerous depending on individuals. The biblical perspective also
cautions against overeating for instance,“Proverbs 23:20-21: Be not among drunkards oramong gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard
and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber
will clothe them with rags.”
If you are overweight (BMI over 25) and physicallyinactive) you may develop: Cardiovascular (heartand blood circulation) disease, Gall bladderdisease, High blood pressure (hypertension),
Diabetes, Osteoarthritis, and certain types of cancer
such as, Colon and Breast Cancer. The short-term
conditions related to poor diet include fatigue, badmoods, depression and stress.

If you are underweight (BMI less than 20), you
may be malnourished and develop: Compromised
immune function, Respiratory disease, Digestive
disease, Cancer; Osteoporosis, and Increased risk offalls and fractures.
The Choice is Yours!
A plant based diet will contain macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein and lipids), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) as well as dietary fibre. Dietary
fibre has been showed to have benefits that include
combating constipation and improvement of control
s in the body like your heart health as well asprotection against cancer. The most undisputed
advantage of insoluble fibre is its ability to soften
and expand stool volume, speeding up faecal transit
and elimination. Soluble fibre from legumes, barley,
oats, some fruit and vegetables can help regulate
blood sugar swings and by lowering serum
cholesterol, protect against heart disease.
Excess blood fats are possibly reduced by soluble
fibres such as pectin, bean and oat gums, and thetypes in legumes (lentils, chickpeas, navy, pinto or
kidney beans). Your heart health may improve by
diets rich in fibre, through its cholesterol lowering
effects. Fibres also have possible anti-cancer effects
since in the bowel, bacteria converts fibre into shortchain fatty acids, which provide energy for the bodyand may help protect against cancer.
Many at times we neglect our bodies by overeating
and lack of exercise. Physical exercise is also important in nutrition and health. 1 Timothy 4:8 says that“For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is
profitable unto all things, having promise of the lifethat now is, and of that which is to come”.
Let moderation in everything guide you to a healthyliving. “Let your moderation be known unto all men.
The Lord is at hand. Philippians 4:5”
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Value Chain

HOW CAN VALUE CHAIN AND VALUE CHAIN FINANCE
BE MADE FUNCTIONAL IN AFRICA?

Photo:CTA
By Dr. Mkpado Mmaduabuchukwu
The quest to develop agriculture in Africa throughfinancial services has not yielded the desired
results.

A

frican Agriculture is largely dominated bysmallholders and remains the source of
livelihood to majority of poor living in sub
Saharan Africa who have witnessed an increase in
the number of companies locating production bases
within countries, especially in agriculture via land
grabbing without any improvement in value chain as
the produce are not fully processed in Africa.

Improving value chain is a major way of alleviating poverty; it increases income to billions of people (about 70 percent) that engage in agriculture.
African agriculture still contributes the highest GDP
of upto 28%, 25% and 20 % in Western, Eastern andCentral Africa respectively from 2006 to 2010.
The Concept of Value Chain and Value Chain FinanceValue chains encompass a full range of activities andservices required to bring a product or service fromits conception to sale in its final markets whether
local, national, regional or global. Value chainsactors include suppliers, producers, processors andbuyers who have a crucial role in three subsectorsof agribusiness namely input sector, farm sector andthe product sector.

Chain actors are involved in bringing a product fromproduction to the end-consumer. Often the productsectors which consist of consumer markets, businessmarkets, governments and institutional markets,and international markets tend to dominate theconcept of value chain.
Value chain finance refers to the flows of funds toand among various links within a value chain.
Efficiency of value chains is partly determined byaccessibility and affordability of financial services
across various agricultural and non-agricultural
products with the aim of improving jobs and wealthcreation, stability of value chains and enhancing
efficiency and capacity of various commodity chains.
Value chain can be viewed from two perspectives,
it could be internal or external based on the product under consideration. Internal value chain takes
place within the value chain such as when a supplierprovides credit to a farmer while external value
chain finance is financing from outside the chain
made possible by value chain relationships andmechanisms like when a bank issues a loan to a
farmer based on a contract with a trusted buyer.
Integration of the Concept of Value Chain Financein Formal Financial Markets
Agricultural value chains have not been integrated inmainstream financial services successfully however,11www.atpsnet.org
the recognition of the role of Agriculture in Agrarian economies has made Agricultural value chains
graduate into an emerging market for financial
markets intermediation players but not yet in Africa.
Improved and integrated agricultural
financing via micro credits, insurance, value chain
financing is required. African Development Bank(AfDB) and Central Banks of individual African
economies may wish to develop models for improved value chain finance.

Value Chain
result of poor capacity of majority of the staff andvery limited facilities such as those for mobility andinformation communication technology.
Improving Contract Farming Arrangement
Contract farming offers an opportunity for smallholders to gainfully participate and relieve theprincipal of the time and labour for primary production. A contract arrangement provides the mostcritical factor which constitutes a bottle neck for the
production. Although contract farming is not new inAfrica, its application has to be increased. Increasein participation of farmers will reflect in reduction ofrising trade inputs.

Handling Challenges /Constraints Posed by Inherent Characteristics of Agriculture
The biological nature of agricultural production
makes it susceptive to diseases and pest attacks
as well as environmental changes. The changing
weather has been responsible for fluctuating yields
and a supply shortfall which has put pressure on
crop prices. The recent floods in Ghana, Nigeria andother parts of Africa caused huge losses to farmers
and the agricultural sector .The bulkiness of agricultural products may pose some limitations due
to poor transportation network. The seasonalityof rainfed agriculture as paratised in many parts ofAfrican is a constraint to continus processing andoptimisation of processing and marketing ofagricultural products.

Policy Implications
Increased value chain in Africa can be a means ofcreating employment, wealth and poverty eradication even gaining favourable balance of payment.
Efforts should be geared towards proving good market access, market infrastructure, industrialization,technology and innovations, as well as improved
agricultural financing via micro credits, insurance
and value chain financing.
Reforms in African land tenure system and industrialization of agricultural sector to large scale production and processing. African can gain from improving value chains of cassava, cotton lint, milk andbutter.

Improving Market Access and Market Infrastructure
Improving value chain and value chain finance inAfrica requires investment which may not be sufficiently carried by African economies alone. There
are many conditions/situations in Africa that causes
insecurity that need reversal to attain improved agricultural value chain and its finance. Political neglect
on agriculture and rural development in Africa leads
to under performance in the Agricultural sector.

The African Development Bank should develop
modes for improved agricultural financing via micro
credits, insurance, value chain financing in Africa
and the African Union, as well as individual economies and different economic blocks in Africa needto intensify efforts to arrest the growing insurgencethat leads insecurity and poor investment.

Increasing Industrialization, Technology and Innovations in African Agriculture
Agriculture in Africa is poorly industrialized. The
sector is dominated with small scale entrepreneurs
whose capital outlay is very small and lack necessary linkages for upscaling. Many African farmers
are using crude, less efficient implements which has
not reduced much of the drudgery they experience.
Innovations for adaptation and mitigation of climatechange exit but the transfer and adoption constitutea major challenge. Week extension services as a12

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Policy Study

ATPS POLICY STUDY ON REGULATORY HARMONISATION OF
VETERINARY PRODUCTS’ REGISTRATION IN EAST AFRICAA

By Hillary Ragen
TPS in partnership with the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines(GALVmed) engaged in a policy landscaping study on regulatory harmonization ofveterinary products’ registration for mutual recognition among East Africa partner states between Julyand October 2016.
GALVmed is a non-profit organization with its headquarters in Edinburgh, UK. The organization works
with countries in the developing world to promote
access and affordable livestock health products to
key populations who depend on livestock for theirlivelihoods.
Since 2011, GALVmed has been working with Regional Economic Communities to harmonize registration of veterinary products towards Mutual
Recognition Procedures (MRP) in East Africa. There
has been significant progress on the technicalaspect of regulatory harmonization process and tocomplement these efforts, GALVmed saw the needto review the policy requirements for the implementation of MRP.
It is against this backdrop that ATPS as a leader inpolicy research coupled with its experience working with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in
Africa, was contracted to undertake this study withthe goal of providing insights of policy landscapewithin East Africa Communities (EAC) and provide
a way forward in terms of policy recommendations
that will enable the implementation of MRP in EAC
Partner States.
Harnessing the expertise, experience and networks
afforded by ATPS in research, policy and advocacy
in the field of Science, Technology and Innovation(STI), GALVmed will be able to augment the sustainability and scalability of its work on regulatory
harmonization within the EAC. The outcomes andimpact of this policy scoping study will be mutually
beneficial to ATPS and GALVmed and will contribute towards agricultural sustainability and African
development.
The specific objectives of the policy scoping study
were:

ATPS Research Officer Mr. Hillary Ragen (fourthfrom right standing) during the regional seminarorganised by GALVmed from 8th-12th August 2016
in Arusha, Tanzania.
• To review EAC law/regulations on regulatory harmonization in so far as they are applicable for the
implementation of MRP.
• To review the laws and regulations in EAC Partner
State to determine gaps and where alignment isneeded in order to implement MRP at the national level.
• Identify mechanisms and strategies that will facilitate and enhance national level ratification, domestication and actual implementation of MRP.
ATPS undertook its activities towards achieving theset objectives that include data collection and analysis in three of the six East Africa countries (Kenya,
Uganda and Tanzania) and an analysis of the policy
and legal documents of all the six partner states of
the EAC.
A final comprehensive report is expected as an outcome of the study that will detail the key findings
on each of the partner states, policy position withrespect to implementation of the MRP and policy
recommendations that will facilitate and accelerate
national level ratification, domestication and actual
implementation of MRP. If the proposed recommendations are implemented, the project will have awider long-term impact on policy environment withrespect to harmonization of laws and policies in the
livestock sector in East Africa which will consequently impact positively on the lives of ordinary livestock
farmers.
GALVmed has previously contracted ATPS to conduct
a market assessment for Newcastle Disease Vaccine
in Nigeria and Ghana which was completed early
this year in February.

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Agricultural Policy

NIGERIA LAUNCHES A NEW AGRICULTURAL POLICY

By Prof. Michael Madukwe
ATPS National Coordinator, Nigeria Chapter
igeria has launched the Agricultural Promotional Policy (APP) 2016-2020, whichaims to reduce food imports and increasesignificant foreign exchange from Agriculture. APP strategy will focus on solving core issues at
the heart of limited food production and delivery of
quality standards. As productivity improves domestically and standards are raised for all Nigerian foodproduction, export markets will also benefit impacting positively on Nigeria’s balance of payments.

N

The new policy will provide a disciplined approachto building an agribusiness ecosystem in which theprivate sector will remain in the lead while thegovernment facilitates; key federal ministries,
departments and agencies (MDAs) will take a regulatory role to ensure commercial development of
the market objectives.
APP has key three thematic areas: Productivity
Enhancements aims to address issues of access toland and land management, soil fertility, access to
information and knowledge, access to inputs (seeds/
seedlings, fertilizer, livestock), production management, storage, processing and marketing, and trade.
The second theme crowding in private investment
will address issues of access to finance and agribusiness development while the third theme FMARD’s
Institutional Realignment will address issues of institutional setting and the role of government, youth
and women, infrastructure, research and development, food ,consumption and nutrition security.

are the technological capabilities of the actors, andhow to enhance them and the necessary linkages todrive the initiatives particularly linkages with nonministry actors. Nigeria is currently facing two key
gaps in Agriculture; the inability to meet domestic
food requirements and to export at quality levels
required for market success. The Federal Ministryof Agriculture and Rural development (FMARD) has
identified an initial pool of crops and related activities that will be Nigeria’s path to tackling this menace. Its priority is on improving productivity into a
number of domestically focused crops such as rice,wheat, maize, sugar amongst others. This will bepossible if Nigeria partners with private investors
across farmer groups and companies to develop end
to end value chain solutions which will be facilitatedthrough government support as they engage a newgeneration of farmers.
Nigeria plans to work with investors to sharply
improve the distribution system for fresh foods so
as to reduce post harvest losses and improve nutrition outcomes. FMARD will prioritize for the production of cowpeas, cocoa, cashew, cassava, ginger,
sesame, oil palm, yams, horticulture, beef andcotton in collaboration with a network of investors,
farmers, processors and other stakeholders’ so as
to deepen the supporting infrastructure to ensure
quality standards are defined and maintained acrossthe value chain. This will involve adding more testing laboratories, improving traceability of crops,
disseminating intelligence on export markets andconsumer preferences with the aim of building highquality brand for Nigerian foods based on rigorous
data and processes to protect food safety for both
domestic and export market.
FMARD will also use its convening and related powers to ensure there is an enabling system in place tosupport agribusiness, it will invest on rural roads toreduce transport time and improve security of farming communities to reduce incidence of criminality.
In addition, FMARD will periodically publish metrics to track performance against strategy, this will
enable them to repeatedly collect accurate data,
integrate these into policymaking as well as investor planning. If the Agricultural Promotional Policy isproperly implemented, Nigeria’s continuous importof rice will disappear while its main produce likebeans and cocoa will once again become a quality
benchmark across the globe.

However, two issues that are not clear in the document14

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ATPS Uganda

HINGING THE VIBRANCY OF ATPS CHAPTER ON LINKAGES ANDGROOMED YOUTH: LESSONS FROM ATPS UGANDA CHAPTER

By Okuonzi John (PhD)
ATPS National Coordinator, Uganda ChapterG

ood habits formed at youth stage makea significant impact to the society. ATPS
Ugandan Chapter (AUC) has remained
vibrant and relevant to the STI agenda
despite gaps in funding its activities.
The youth are the pillar of AUC. A number of youth
groomed by chapter since its inception have matured with different technology based business initiatives, some work closely with government agencies and have continued to maintain their identities
with the ATPS.
The AUC identified a number of talented youth withstrategic innovations and nurtured them to develop
their innovations to commercial levels. Most ofthem have come up with software products usedin universities and some with tangible electronic
products such as inverters for solar systems. Having
developed commercial viable products, the youths
formed business companies with an office andproduction space. One of the software companies
offered AUC office space that it currently conducts
business in appreciation of nurturing and support
at incubation. This is under the auspices of the ATPS
Phase VI Strategic Plan 2008-2012.
AUC has worked with youths who have benefited
from small grants ranging between USD 1000 to5000 USD. In 2013 -2014, a group of AYFST members in Uganda wrote a proposal dubbed, Engineering Practice for Community Services (EPICS) which
attracted a funding of USD 3000. The aim of thisproject was to encourage youth to join the engineering profession so as to serve communities. It
involved pairing university students with secondary
students and actively engaging them to produce innovate systems or products that address rural community challenges.
The same youth group wrote another proposal toinstall lighting arrestors in primary and secondary school prone to lightning strikes. The activities
involved awareness creation, design and installationof lightening discharge system with the school children. The children were taught by ATPS youth about
science lightening and how to protect themselvesfrom attacks. The project attracted a grant of USD
5000.
In 2015-2016, AYFST group won a grant of USD 3500
to develop a mobile ICT lab to train students andthose that are under-privileged in the community.
The mobile ICT lab contains about 5 personal computers designed to be hauled around schools without ICT lab facilities. The mobile ICT lab is stationed
in one school for about 5 days to enable pupils gain
bits of digital literacy. In order to be sustainable theschools make contributions to support the initiative
since many of them cannot afford to buy computers.
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Since 2013, AUC has worked with Café-Sci, an NGO
that promotes teaching of science informally inprimary and secondary schools. The Café Sci and
AUC members have visited over 60 schools in morethan 5 Districts in Uganda. In this arrangement, thestudents and pupils are urged to form science clubs.
The science clubs then identify science topics thatare relevant in the community. ATPS members withrelated knowledge are identified as guest speakers
in the schools. The project became so popular andin most cases attracted the entire school. These
activities are in line with ATPS youth and gender
programme.
AUC has been working closely with the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST)
since 1994 to accomplish relevant IP programs. The
UNCST a national body charged with the responsibility of developing Science and Technology in Uganda.
UNCST in collaboration with AUC continue to develop the capacity of scientists in the area of Intellectual Property Rights in order for them to benefit
from their efforts; for IP strategy to be successful,
inputs from other national mandated bodies like
Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) andleading academicians were required. This led to
the formation of a 9 member National IP Advisory(NIPA) Group to advise UNCST on IPR issues.
Mr. John Okuonzi, AUC National Coordinator is anactive member of the NIPA. The NIPA Group initiated a program called “IP Clinics” which is a platform
used to train and create an IP culture amongst scientists and innovators in Uganda. The IP clinics areheld monthly with an aim of providing an information platform on intellectual property related issues
and improve access to IP information. The IP Clinic,
UNCST, AUC and URSB promote commercializationof local inventions/innovations and facilitate accessto patent information.

ATPS Uganda

AUC and URSB created a Technology Innovations
Support Center at Kyambogo University to easily
access patent information. Over 200 staff, students
and other scientists have been trained to searchpatent information since 2014. This program has
made AUC relevant in strengthening institutional
mechanism to acquire and support Intellectual
Property Rights (IPR) and expand the innovationbase in Uganda. These activities are aligned with
ATPS agenda on STI Research, Training and Sensitization, Knowledge Brokerage and Commercialization,
and Policy Advocacy.
AUC also participates in national events such as
the National Science Week . In recognition of these
key activities, AUC was selected by URSB to be amember of the National Expert Group (NEG) whose
mandate is to identify appropriate technologies for
adoption and national development. AUC has continued to develop IP as an important strategic andcompetitive resource that is currently recognized asa national resource that can attract foreign investments in Uganda.
AUC has collaborated with like-minded institutionsin Uganda and continues to provide platforms forcollaborative youth innovative engagement in ATPS
programs. While supporting the AFYST and STI institutions/stakeholders to build necessary conditions
and incentives to implement their programs, AUC
has remained active to ensure that six core pillars of
ATPS remain operational in the chapter. AUC works
towards implementing the Phase VII Strategic Plan,
which is designed to improve the understanding
and functioning of STI policy research, policymaking
processes and systems to strengthen capabilities,
social responses, and governance of STI-led sustainable development in Africa.
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Entrepreneurship

YOUTH AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
high unemployment rate and limited opportunities
for youth create widespread dissatisfaction especially in countries with limited avenues for dissent canserve as a recipe for social unrest.Absent progress inunrest. Absent progress in these areas means animmense pool of talent will be left to waste at theexpense of African economies.

US President, Barack Obama speaking to delegates
during the 2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit in
Nairobi, Kenya.
By Dr. Ernest Acheampong
Africa’s youth-heavy population can transformthe continent’s economy, insulating itself from theperils of a resource-driven approach.

The 2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit in
Nairobi reiterated the crucial role of entrepreneurship in economic development, job
creation, and technological innovations forenhanced economic growth. The event which wasattended by U.S. President Barack Obama helped
place Africa in the global limelight as an emerging
entrepreneurship hub. Africa is taking advantage
of its youth demographic dividend to push young
entrepreneurs to contribute to the continent’s
economic transformation. Two decades ago, Africa
was hardly represented on the global business map
due to its insignificant contribution to the global
economy.
Today, Africa’s economic figures are expected topick up significantly in the latter part of 2016 due
to growing confidence to both the investor andconsumer. Current indicators seem to suggest the
opposite is occurring with limited job opportunities
and high youth unemployment. The public sector is
no longer capable of absorbing the massive numberof young people graduating from universities every
year. Youth unemployment in Africa is still a menace, in North Africa the rate is at 30.5% which is thehighest worldwide according to a report, Global Employment Trends for Youth 2015 by the International
Labour Organization.
Africa’s rapidly growing population has led to a massive youth bulge, with over 40% of the continent under the age of 15 and 20% between the ages of 15
and 24. The statistics present both risks and opportunities for future prosperity. On the risk side, theOn the opportunity side, if properly harnessed
Africa’s youth bulge can offer a strong and energetic human capital with the potential to speed up
economic growth and foster a sustainable future
for the continent. Many young Africans are highly
motivated to define a better path to prosperity; they
are well-connected and well-placed to create newtechnologies to transform Africa’s economy fromresource-reliant to service-driven.
Entrepreneurship is not a new idea in Africa; young
people have demonstrated their creativity andingenuity in creating small and medium scale enterprises. Technological revolution in Africa is proving
to be a game changer for young entrepreneurs byfacilitating the development of mobile apps andthe emergence of business start-ups and tools to
address pertinent societal needs while filling theemployment gap.
Challenges
While many African entrepreneurs complain about
limited financial capital, financiers and investors
point out that a number of proposed ventures are
not fundable hence the reason why they are averse
to offering loans and credits to youth-led businesses
because they are deemed too risky and in manycases not financially viable.
Young Africans seeking to start new businesses lackwell-tailored training which undermines their innovation potential and deters would-be investors.
In spite of well-intentioned government programs,
private and public funds that have been set up,
many have been hit hard by corruption, poor programming and implementation.
Entrepreneurship in Africa will take more than justfunding. State agencies must create and support
programs that provide the knowledge and skills
necessary to set up businesses including financial
management, risk and uncertainty analysis, andmarket strategy. The youth should take advantageof technology and establish business connections in
the region and abroad and prepare themselves toaccess financial services and emerging markets.
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Irrigation

AUTOMATIC SOLAR IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Mr. Japheth Karisa demonstrating how the Automatic Solar Irrigation Management
System Works.
By Japheth Karisa
frica is the world’s second largest continent
after Asia, more than 70 % of the continent’s poor people live in rural areas anddepend on agriculture for food andlivelihood yet the development assistance to agriculture is decreasing.

A

and nitrogen oxides to the atmosphere whichleads to global warming due to the accumulationof greenhouse gases. Another problem incurred bypeople using diesel pumps is the cost of labour as
one has to employ people to irrigate the land.

The history of agriculture dates back to 1200BC
when farmers used simple farming tools to till theirland and produce food for their family. It is until
Agrarian revolution that mechanization replaced
human labour and new tools for farming led to highyields.

Due to these problems there is a need to comeup with a better irrigation system that conserves
the environment and is pocket friendly. Irrigating alarge piece of land requires a pump, to cut the cost
incurred to buy fuel for the irrigation pumps thensolar energy can be used because it is cheap,
renewable and readily available.

In Kenya, most people who practice irrigation farming use pumps to pump water from the source tothe cultivated lands while others create sills anddykes that can tap stream water and then redirected
to allow water flood over the land under cultivation.
Farmers using pumps often use diesel as a sourceof power. The price of petroleum products keeps on
fluctuating and becomes expensive each day due
to political events, economic growth causes excess
supply hence shortage by major oil distributors so
as to increase oil prices and fluctuation in currency
rates amongst others.
The use of petroleum products as a source of fuelleads to environmental pollution through therelease of carbon monoxide, unburnt hydrocarbons

In order to reduce pollution caused by burning offuel used to run the pumps, solar energy which isclean and green can be used. The cost of labour incurred through employment of labourers to irrigate
the lands can be reduced by having an automatic
irrigation system that can run on its own without involvement of many hands and to manage the waterused for irrigation, a correct amount of water should
be distributed on the land evenly and on the places
that have inadequate water.
The solar powered automatic irrigation management system makes use of sensors and mechanicalactuators to control the whole irrigation process.

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The automatic solar irrigation system has a pumpthat pumps water from a source (river) to a storage tank. In the tank there is a water level sensor
that monitors the variation in water level, when thewater reaches the highest set level an analog signal
is sent to the microcontroller which sends a digital
signal to the relay to switch off the pump. The waterin the storage tank is directed to the irrigated soil.

Interviewto the microcontroller which then sends a signal
to the relay connected to the valve and the relay
closes the valve. In addition, there is an LCD displaythat displays the level of water and the action takenby the microcontroller e.g “PUMP ON, TANK LEVEL
40%”.
The system can be used in large scale production and on any type of soil or crop. The variablechanged is the set amount of moisture so as to suitevarious types of crops and soil.

When water in the soil reaches the set level, the soil
moisture sensor in the soil sends an analog signal

Interview with Mr. Japheth Karisa
Japheth Karisa is a student at the Technical University of Kenya pursuing a Bachelors degree in
Mechanical Engineering. He has developed an innovative prototype on the Automatic Solar
Irrigation Management System which is simple to operate and makes use of sensors.
be used for cultivation due to little or no rainfall andalso there is need of conserving the environmentand curbing environmental pollution in all its forms.

Mr. Japheth Karisa
1. What is an Automatic Solar Irrigation Management
System?
An automated irrigation system refers to the operation of an irrigation system with no or just aminimum of manual intervention beside the surveillance. Almost every system (drip, sprinkler, surface)can be automated with help of timers, sensors,
computers or mechanical appliances; it makes theirrigation process more efficient and workers canconcentrate on other important farming tasks.
2. What is so unique about the innovative prototype
you have developed?
The design is so simple to operate. It makes use of
sensors unlike the old systems that use timers.
3. What is the niche of the new technology?
The automatic solar irrigation system has solved the
problem of loss or abandonment of land that could

4. How does the Automatic Solar Irrigation Management System works?
It makes use of sensors to control various parameters. A water level sensor is used to check the levelof water in the tank where it sends a signal to a
microcontroller on the water level. The microcontroller responds by sending a signal to the relay toeither start or stop the pump. On the other side soil
moisture sensors are used to check the level of water in the soil. When the soil becomes wet enoughto the set point a signal is sent to the microcontroller which responds by sending a signal to the relay
to either open or close the valves. A display screen
displays the various output commands.
5.How is the new technology environmentallyconscious?
The system runs on solar power which is a green
source of energy. Water is also conserved and casesof water logging are eliminated.
6. What are the advantages and disadvantages of theAutomatic Solar Irrigation Management System?
The system is environmentally friendly as the sourceof energy is green, cheap and not affected byinflation. The costs of human labour are less as there
is minimal human intervention. However, the sourceof power can be affected by a cloudy weather andthe initial cost of setting up the system is high but
long benefits are cheap.

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7. Can the Automatic Irrigation Management System
be used in all types of land?
Yes, the system can be used on any soil and any crop,
since a program is fed to the microcontroller and thevalues of the variables can be changed to fit with thetype of soil
8. Is the Automatic Irrigation Management Systemfavourable to people living in dry areas?
Yes it is, those with access to boreholes and wells cantake advantage of automatic irrigation system.
9. What are your plans with the new technology
and how will you ensure that it benefits farmers?
I will partner with government organizations andNGOs to ensure that the idea is implemented
especially, to the less fortunate farmers.
10. Have you patent your innovation?
I am in the process

Interview
11. What is the procedure of patent in Kenya?
The Kenya Industrial Property Institute is mandatedwith the task to patent innovations and it has set
guidelines of what can be patent or not. The process
begins by filing an application through an IP3 form
which requires one to give a description of his/herinvention, the technical field the invention relates
to and background information of the applicabilityof the invention to the industry. The innovator thenprovides claims which define the features of thepatent for which protection is sought, a drawing of theinvention is needed and lastly, it is the abstract that
includes technical information which is a summary of
the technical field to which the invention relates toand the principal use or uses of the invention.
12. What are the benefits of patent?
Patent offers one monopoly of their work, one is able
to enjoy the benefits that come with his hard work
unlike situations whereby one plagiarizes someone’s
work and starts reaping the fruits he/she did not sow.

KENYA’s ROADMAP TOWARDS THE IMPLEMENTATIONOF SDGsK

By Sharon Anyangoenergy, economic growth and infrastructure andindustrial development with an aim of reducing
inequalities among countries, address sustainable
cities and communities.

enya has launched a roadmap to guide thecountry in its quest to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within
the deadline set by UN. The roadmap will
ensure there is close monitoring to identify gaps andprogress of the integration process.

Goals 12 to 15 have been incorporated to address
matters of environmental sustainability with great
concerns to challenges of climate change which
include responsible consumption and production,
climate action, conservation of water sources,
protection of forests and proper utilization of land
resources.

The importance of capacity building within public
institutions and the need to conduct civic education was also emphasized to ensure every citizen is
involved in the process of integrating the SDGs.
Mr. Mwangi Kiunjuri, CS Devolution noted that SDGs
will be aligned with the County Integrated Development Plans; the plan has classified SDGs into short,medium and long-term in order to prioritize pressing
areas anchored on People, the Planet, Prosperity,
Peace and Partnerships. Kenya has also integrated
SDGs into its vision 2030.
Eradicating poverty, hunger, ensuring healthy lives,
gender equality and empowerment of women are
integrated in the SDGs to capture unfinished MDGs.
SDGs 6-11 are newly designed areas expected to address water and sanitation challenges, affordable

Goal 16 focuses on enhancing peace and justicethrough establishment of effective institutions that
can administer accountability and inclusivity.
Kenya had the opportunity to chair the panel thatdrafted the 17 SDGs which were later on adopted by
the UN General Assembly in 2015 to advance inclusive growth, peace and good governance.
Deputy President, William Ruto on 24th September presented the roadmap to the United Nations
General Assembly to showcase Kenya’s commitment
towards attaining the new development framework.

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Tissue Culture

KENYAN FARMER REAPING BIG FROM BANANATISSUE CULTURE BUSINESS

They set up a banana tissue culture laboratory by
converting a residential house into a laboratory
with an investment worth Ksh.2 million, where
they would use to produce seeds into bulk fromidentified banana varieties after the realization thatthrough this model they would be able to produce
disease free seeds that are able to easily get adapted to local environmental conditions.

Joyce Macharia, a young farmer in Mogotio in her
five acre banana plantation farm.
By Arnold OmindeEvery year, thousands of well-educated young
Africans migrate from their countries in pursuit of greener pastures abroad due to thehigh rate of unemployment in the Continent.
Some are lucky to land into lucrative jobs while others continue to languish in poverty with poor pay inthe host countries.
Many youths prefer white-collar jobs as opposed toAgriculture and very few have an entrepreneurial
mindset. Those who have ventured into Agribusiness and reaped its benefits have not looked backbut continued to work hard and inspire others.
Joyce Macharia, quit her job three years ago at a
local bank to venture into banana tissue business.
She identified a niche in the market which was a
shortage supply of bananas to the growing Kenyan
population. She turned her fortunes by making
use of neglected farmlands into centers’ of attraction through science, technology and innovation.
She could not understand the reason as to why thecountry should import bananas from neighbouring
countries yet young people have the potential tofarm bananas for export.
Her biggest challenge was getting the appropriate
seeds. She first did a market survey before setting
up the business and realized that there was a problem in getting seeds to sustain commercial banana
farming. Being posed by this challenge, she and hercolleagues tackled it by teaming up with friends tocome up with a proper structure that would sustain
the business.

Most of the capital went into installing tissueculture banana seedlings production systems thatchurn out over 10,000 plants every month. The
laboratory has seven employees and each of thethree bedrooms turned laboratory is used for different purposes in the production process as theymostly work in groups to separate the shoots using what the Agronomist calls clean benches as theplants remain in this room for four weeks.
Each shoot is planted in its own sterilized bottle inthe special soil with essential nutrients; the temperatures are maintained from 26-29 degrees Celsius
since the plants are fragile and sensitive to too low
or too high temperatures. From the laboratory, theseeds are taken to the nursery where they are hardened for around one month before being taken to
the field for planting. Today, the business has grown
and it supplies seeds to farmers spread across thecountry majorly in Mombasa, Marsabit and Kisii.
An entrepreneurial mindset amongst the youth is amore sophiscated approach towards the brain drainchallenge in Africa. This approach would recognize
not just the obstacles but also the opportunities for
STI, and capacity building in Africa afforded by the
migration of well-educated, productive scientists
with great drive and ambition to developed countries.
Educational experts agree that Higher Education
throughout Africa must be revitalized. Universities
have been hollowed out by decades of brain drain
and now find themselves severely handicappedby dilapidated facilities and inadequately trained
staff. According to the Science Citation Index, Africa
currently produces just 1.4 percent of the articles
published in Peer-Reviewed International journals.
While Africa has paid a high price for this trend dueto the on-going loss of its most educated and skilled
citizens; denying talented individuals adequate education and training opportunities elsewhere carrysignificant costs too. As Rajiv Gandhi, former Prime
Minister of India once observed, “Better brain drain
than brain in the drain.”21

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AYFST

YOUTH EMPOWERMENT FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA: THE ROLE OF AYFST

AYFST members during one of the Africa Regional Youth Congresses and Expositions in Nairobi, Kenya.
By Eng. Emeka Victor Ngwoke
Chairperson, ATPS African Youth Forum for Science
Science and Technology (AYFST)

T

oday, the African continent is made up ofyouth with over 200 million people aged
between 18 and 35 (the youth bracket).
The current trend indicates that this figure
will double by 2045, according to the 2012 African
Economic Outlook report prepared by experts fromthe African Development Bank (AfDB), the UN
Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Economic
Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Industrialized
Countries’ Organization for Economic Cooperation
and Development (OECD).
Africa is going through a rapid population growth. Its
population has more than tripled during the second
half of the twentieth century reaching around 1
billion people. As the total population keeps onincreasing, the population of young people is getting
its importance not only in terms of absolute number
but also in terms of needs and this trend is expected
to keep rising in the continent. According to the WorldBank (2009) more than 72% of the youth populationin Sub-Saharan Africa live with less than $2 a day andmajority are unemployed.
What is Africa doing to take care of its young
people? Presently, the youth constitutes about
60% of all Africans unemployed. In North Africa,
the youth unemployment rate is an eyebrowraising, it is even worse in Botswana, the Republicof the Congo, Senegal, South Africa, Nigeria andseveral other countries. The high rate of population
growth presents many challenges for African leaders
who are very sluggish to finding solutions to theconstraints that Africa is facing. These constraints
are unemployment, poverty, health, education,
corruption, development infrastructures, terrorism,and disruptive conflicts. This represents major
challenges worldwide particularly in Africa where
youths often live in conditions of extreme poverty
and social exclusion.
In spite of all these realities, there are many people
and organizations that show encouraging dedicationand passion for proactive and positive change in
Africa. The African Youth Forum on Science andTechnology (AYFST) is such a unique forum in Africa.

22www.atpsnet.org

AYFST

AYFST leaders and members during one of the Steering Commitee Meetings in Ghana.
AYFST Vision
AYFST is focused to see “Empowered African
communities that enjoy sustainable livelihoods”.

AYFST is a youth organization in African countries
which aims at engaging youth in the development ofscience, technology and innovation to solve problems
they are facing in their communities.
AYFST was initiated by ATPS in 2005 in collaboration with the Technical Centre for Agricultural and
Rural Cooperation CTA, Netherlands. Since then,the AYFST has provided a platform for African young
professionals to build capacity in science, technology and innovation policy research, policy dialogue
and policy practice. The forum and its website(http://www.ayfst.atpsnet.org) was formerly
launched during the 2nd African Youth Congress on
Science and Technology in Accra, Ghana co-organized by the ATPS, CTA, CSIR, among other partners.
AYFST has national chapters in all the countries
where the ATPS exists.

AYFST Mission
AYFST is committed to building the capacity of
African youth in Agriculture, Science, Technology
and Innovation and empower them to participate
in policy formulation processes, advocacy andimplementation for sustainable development.

tive and competitive. This hope is not without aprice tag, it requires a diligent and consistent effort
and investment from all the stakeholders’ in Africa
to ensure that Africa joins the rest of the world
to celebrate good livelihood. If Africa must catch
up with the rest of the World, then we need to be
more aggressive in our policies and implementations in youth programmes.

AYFST exists to build capacity of youths throughtraining, information sharing, networking and dialogue in relevant topical and developmental issues
to promote youth participation in policy formulationand implementation processes at all levels regarding STI and to promote youth-led, demand-driven
research and development initiatives in Agriculture,
Science, Technology and Innovation.
As young people of African extractions with unparalleled interest in the pursuit of economic renaissancein Africa using science, technology and innovation,
we are convinced that Africa will soon be compara-

AYFST is well-coordinated and has a wide spread
youth network in Africa. It is committed to build
the capacity of African youth in Agriculture, Science, Technology and Innovation by empowering
them to participate in policy formulation processes
and advocacy for sustainable development. African
stakeholders’ should buy into her programmes toassist the African youth to pursue and realize their
dreams.

23

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Going Green

GOING GREEN: A PANACEA FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
MENACE IN AFRICA

Photo:Oxfam
By Chibuzo Okpokiri,
Lecturer, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture

up already and to stop it going much further theworld must radically change its ways and go green.

T

he enigma of climate change is no longer an illusion but a reality. In the recent years, climate
has been changing drastically with an increasein local mean temperature, changes in rainfall - its
onset, seasonal distribution and extremes, increasein frequency and intensity of large storms and tropical cyclones, increase in evaporation losses fromplants and water surfaces and increased melting ofglaciers and other ice bodies.
Climate Change has taken toll on the global economy making the cost of living and production to
inflate. Although climate change is a global issue, it
is more pronounced in Africa because of its geography, sole dependence on agriculture and generalized
incapacity to cope and adapt to climate extremes.
South Africa, Nigeria, Malawi suffered from effectsof heavy flooding in 2010, 2012 and 2015 respectively while East African Countries namely Kenya,
Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea experienced drought
in 2011. This is a clear indication of how climatechange is already knocking hard on our continent
and we must be on the front line to mitigate its
impacts.
Climate Change is the defining human development
challenge of the 21st Century and if we continue
with business as usual, the planet will probably
become uninhabitable for future generations. If we
continue to pollute our atmosphere as we are doing
today, the future of the planet will be bleak withdramatic local climate changes, increasingly violent
weather and rise of sea levels. The planet is heating

A green economy or going green means an economic system that is compatible with the naturalenvironment; it should be environmentally friendly,
ecological, and for many groups is also socially just.
This can also be called “greening the economy”. It
is hinged on the concept of the ability to meet ourpresent needs without compromising future generations’ capability to meet their needs. A green economy is buttressed by three major pillars namely:
low carbon technology, resource use efficiency andsocially inclusive growth.
Green economy was launched by the United Nations
Environment Programme in 2008 to seize the opportunities that the concept of a green economy has tooffer. It seeks to accomplish two tasks. First, it tries
to make a “beyond anecdotal” macroeconomic casefor investing in sectors that produce environmentally friendly or environmentally enhancing products
and services. Second, the initiative tries to provide
guidance on how to boost pro-poor green investment. The goal is to encourage and enable policymakers to support increased green investment fromboth the public and private sectors.
Africa is transitioning to a mechanized economy andwill contribute its own pollution load to a planet already under severe ecological stress. Going green ishampered by many factors which include high poverty and unemployment rate, use of resources that
contribute directly to GHG production and selfish
nature of most African leaders who amass wealth24

www.atpsnet.org
with no care to sustainable development. SouthAfrica is making tremendous effort in ‘greening’ its
economy, they are spearheading the green revolution in Africa. The South African government hascreated a conducive environment to encourage
green revolution by making policies that encourage
going green which include; the 2006 national framework for environmental fiscal reform, the 2011 department of environmental affairs national climatechange response, the 2012 department of trade andindustry industrial policy plan, carbon tax in 2013
amongst other laws. The South African government
has adopted the National Development Plan (NDP)
as a road map to deliver public services efficiently
up to 2030; the NDP outlines interventions that canIntern at ATPS
put the economy on an environmentally friendly
path. The reconfiguration will lead to a higher shareof green sectors in the South African economy, more
green and decent jobs, reduced energy and material
intensities in production processes, less waste andpollution, and significantly reduced greenhouse gas(GHG) emissions.
The planet is ours and it is high time we made theneeded plans to protect it. African countries shouldhave a desire to protect the environment by active
governmental regulation and polices, green building
awareness campaigns, training and development,
products standardization, culture and community
influences, introduction of green building strategies
and best practices into school curricular.

MY EXPERIENCE AS AN INTERN AT THE ATPSE

By Clive Owino
ducation is learning what you didn’t evenknow you know. The Kenyan University education system is structured in such a way one
has to do an industrial based attachment andbe supervised by a his/her lecturer. The purpose ofindustrial attachment is for each student to apply
the theory learnt in the classroom to the field.
I am a third year student at the Technical University of Mombasa pursuing a Bachelor of Science inDevelopmental Studies. I had the privilege to internat the ATPS. I first came across the ATPS through afacebook post and later on decided to have a look attheir website to know more about the Organization.
I was astonished by the global reach the ATPS has in Mr. Clive Owino, ATPS Research Intern
its National Chapters, I sent my application and after
two weeks I received a mail that my application wasline with duty and I had to ensure that I beat thesuccessful.
set deadlines. I have gained valuable experience on
how to write good research papers, journals, how to
My main motivation to join the ATPS was its global
key in and analyze data with assistant from my otherreputation of excellence and commitment to improve the quality of science, technology and innova- supervisor Mr. Hillary Ragen, who is the Researchtion systems research and policymaking in Africa by Assistant at the ATPS.
strengthening capacity for science, technology andI extend my gratitude to Dr. Nicholas Ozor, ATPS Exinnovation, communication and dissemination, useecutive Director for the opportunity to work in theand mastery for sustainable development in Africa.
My interest in the ATPS programmes is on Youth and best Think Tank in Africa. The staff are truly incredible and hospitable; everyone is dedicated to achieve
Gender Empowerment (YGEP) as well as Training
the best for the Organization and pride themselves
and Sensitization (T&S).
of being associated with the ATPS. It is a united
I joined the Research Department that is headed by team always ready to assist each other at work. The
skills I have gained during the short period, I am
Mr. Ernest Acheampong, he has been instrumental
sure one day it will transform the World to be a betduring my internship period. He is very passionate
terplace. I would encourage other students to apply
about his work and strives to deliver the best, he
for Internship at the ATPS as this is the best place tochallenged me a lot me through multiple works inlaunch your career path.
25

www.atpsnet.org

AAIN

AAIN TO DRIVE AGRIBUSINESS AGENDA IN AFRICA
aim of transforming the agricultural sector throughcreation of wealth and job opportunities. AAIP in its
proposed activities will support the integration of
Agribusiness Incubation into CAADP country investment plans, facilitate policy briefs on agribusinessincubation support among Africa Union Member
states, conduct CAADP Non-Stators awareness meetings on agribusiness incubation support, develop acommunication and information sharing framework
between actors, develop M&E framework for Agribusiness Incubation based on CAADP principles andprovide technical support to partners during implementationT

By Sharon Anyango
he African Agribusiness Incubators Network(AAIN) in partnership with the African Union
Commission-Department of Rural Economy
and Agriculture (AUC-DREA) held a design
workshop from 1st to 3rd September at the New
Stanley Hotel, Nairobi.
The objectives of the workshop were to review thestatus of agribusiness incubation and incubation
models in Africa under AAIN and other partners, todevelop AAIP Programme proposal structure andtools for implementation development, to create acommon understanding of the African Agribusiness
Incubation Programme, and to identify strategic
partnerships which are effective for programmedelivery.
AAIP has 6 proposed investment pillars and businessmodels namely; Agribusiness and Incubation Fund,
Agribusiness Technology and Emerging Opportunities for Commercialization, Agribusiness Education
and Capacity Building, Seed Sector Development
and Food Loss Reduction, Youth Engagement in Agribusiness and, Policy Support and Networking.
In the pillar of Policy Support and Networking, AAIP
will strengthen agribusiness incubation capacity,
promote agribusiness education, create access tofinance, access to affordable quality seed and commercialise agricultural technologies and innovations
through incubation.

The AU-EU-AAIN agreed in one voice to drive theagribusiness agenda in the continent; they reiterated
on the importance of creating job opportunities forboth women and youth through agribusiness.
ATPS recently signed an MoU with AAIN to accelerate Africa’s quest to eradicate poverty, hunger andmalnutrition and improve the general well-being of
its people.
Both parties will contribute to the implementationof mutually beneficial activities that include technology transfer through integrating Science, Technology
and Innovation, research capacity building, Agribusiness innovation incubation training and sensitization, stakeholder dialogue (policy analysis and advocacy) and the start-up of SME programmes than canempower enhanced benefits of poverty eradication,
hunger and malnutrition through STI for sustainable
development in Africa.
AAIN incubates agribusiness-incubators throughadvancing entrepreneurial talent, networking, integrating science and technology for job and wealthcreation in Africa while ATPS is a trans-disciplinary
network of researchers, policymakers, private sectors and the civil society that promotes the generation, dissemination, use and mastery of science,technology and innovation for sustainable development in Africa.

The programme will be used to facilitate and financeagribusiness incubation activities in 54 African Union Member States in the next five years with an26

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STI

WHY AFRICA SHOULD PUT MUCH EMPHASIS ON
SCIENCE,TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

harnessed and applied to increase food production,fight diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS so as to increase economic competitiveness ofthe continent.

A

By Arnold Ominde
frica has many grand opportunities for
economic transformation and development through Science, Technology andInnovation (STI) with a competitive advantage of being the World’s youngest region as 60% of
its population is below 35 years.
Over the decades, Africa has made bold attemptsof enhancing STI to turn around their development
fortunes by adopting the Monrovia Strategy of July
1979, alongside the Lagos Plan of Action (LPA) for
the Economic Development of Africa in April 1980.
This is followed the African Union Commission’s establishment of a Conference of Ministers in chargeof Science and Technology (AMCOST) that would
enable the Union to periodically deliberate andhave a collective voice on science and technologicalissues in African Countries. The LPA was a visionary, far-reaching and unprecedented blueprint on
how to foster collective self-reliance and sustainable
development in the continent. Subsequent attempts
at chanting Africa’s development have drawn inspiration from that visionary framework.
However, the implementation of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) influenced
the important role STI played in Africa’s socio-economic development. These influences were translated into policy instruments at various levels to enable constructive achievement and transformative
goals by building institutions and implementing related programs. Similarly, Africa is exposed to a wide
range of technological opportunities to address its
human development challenges. Technologies suchas information and communication technologies,
biotechnology and nanotechnology can be

Technological innovators who are using mobile
technology to increase agricultural productivity aredemonstrating Africa’s entrepreneurial potential,
even though the opportunities offered by mobile
technology are constrained as people in rural areas
still need to travel long distances to get their mobile
phones recharged because of poor accessibility toelectricity.
Africa still remains the poorest and most economically marginalized continent in the World. The
politics of globalization, internationalization andregionalization of STI have defined and shaped it inways that effectively exclude the African voice its
knowledge systems and to a large extent the African development agenda. The Kenya Government
for example has been implementing the Economic
Recovery Strategy for Wealth and Employment Creation (ERSWEC) since 2003 as its medium term plan
to address development challenges of economic
growth and poverty alleviation. In its long-term
development strategy outlined in Vision 2030 envisages a nation that is globally competitive and prosperous with a high quality of life by the year 2030.
If we compare traditional societies with those of thepresent, it becomes clear that norms and processesof creating a meaningful environment for living are
currently being heavily transfused with sciencebased knowledge.
Many African leaders and the international community are increasingly recognizing that STI is critical
for the transformation of their economies, reductionof poverty, attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and integration of the continent
into the global knowledge economy. By analyzing
this positive impetus, the concept of national system of innovation with reference to nineteen subSaharan countries namely; Angola, Botswana, DRC,
Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles,
South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia
and Zimbabwe provides insights on the state of STI
in Africa and how African countries and Africa’s
27

www.atpsnet.org
regional bodies are prioritizing STI in their nationaland regional development agendas respectively.
Many approaches used by African countries to set
their R&D priorities exhibit a disorganized national R&D priority setting processes which seemto emerge from socio-political statements. Most
countries R&D priorities are often set by or at thelevel of individual research institutions based on theinstitution’s anticipation of funding from national
governments or international donors. R&D priorities
are also set within sectors such as agriculture andhealth, and at the level of individual departments or

SASA CUE
ministries. There have been efforts to set R&D priorities in specific technology fields such as biotechnology, nanotechnology and nuclear sciences.
African countries and stakeholders should embrace
and implement STI policy and strategy by making ita cornerstone component of their institutional andsectoral strategies. This is only possible by promoting capacity building in STI and infrastructural development through effective networks and linkages forknowledge generation and dissemination.

SASA CUE CONFERENCE
The session included notable presentations by
experienced industry leaders and experts as well asuniversity professors in various fields of research.
The current state of agriculture and agriculturalresearch was highlighted with presentations from
Agriculture Food Authority (AFA), African Women in
Agricultural Research Development (AWARD) andInternational Development Research Centre (IDRC).

A

The conference had other sub-themes that encouraged reflection and discussions in the following
areas:• Promoting STI research and building a globallycompetitive higher education sector in Africa.
• The role of research in policy formulation, national
development and sustainable funding for researchin Africa.
• Quality of postgraduate research training in Africa
and translating academic research into innovation.
• Transforming the academic curriculum for advancing STI.
• Accelerating research infrastructure and humandevelopment.
• Evolution, strides and challenges facing universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres in Kenya.
• Harmonizing variations in science policy and government funding of research in countries.

The conference was organized and sponsored by theCommission for University Education (CUE) as the
local host institution in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, National Commission for Science,
Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), universities
and other stakeholders in the sector. Dr. Nicholas
Ozor, ATPS Executive Director chaired the plenary
session on Agriculture and Food Security which is inline with ATPS new strategic priority area of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition that aims to enhance Africa’s capacity for agricultural sustainability throughscience, technology and innovation.

Kenya has attached great interest in education asa stimulant for economic and social development
since its independence. The growth of the higher
education sector has resulted in both challenges andopportunities and thus the conference was timely toscale up the current status of university education
to meet the ever increasing global market demands.
The conference also showcased many cutting-edge
scientific, educational, technological and medical
presentations aimed at advancing science, technology and education in Africa.

By Hillary Ragen
TPS participated in the 4th Annual International Scientific Conference by the Society
for the Advancement of Science in Africa(SASA) which was held at the Kenyatta
University, Nairobi from 22nd to 26th August. The
major theme of the conference was advancing
Africa’s sustainable development through science,technology and innovation with focus on quality
university research and innovation. This was the firstbiennial conference on the state of higher educationin Kenya.

28

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TICAD

6TH TOKYO INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON
AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT (NAIROBI DECLARATION)

African Heads of States and delegates from across the globe during the 6th Tokyo International Conferenceon African Development in Nairobi, Kenya
By Sharon Anyango
TICAD VI identified three pillars namely;
Pillar 1: Promoting structural economic transformafrica for the first time hosted the 6th Tokyo
tion through economic diversification and industriInternational Conference on African dealization.
velopment (TICAD VI) since its inception in
1993 where it has been serving as a pioneer Pillar 2: Promoting resilient health systems for quality of life.
multilateral forum for international cooperation on
Pillar 3: Promoting social stability for shared prosAfrican development. Kenya hosted TICAD (VI) at
the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) perity.
from 27-28th August 2016; key attendees to the
The first pillar will address economic diversificaconference were African Heads of States and Govtion and industrialization by facilitating solutions toernments and representatives from private sector
urban problems and create markets by linking conand civil society organizations both from Japan andsumers, producers, farmers and economies throughAfrica.
region-wide development that leads to job creationand transfer of expertise to enhance capacity buildThe theme for TICAD VI was, “Advancing Africa’s
ing of African countries and its people especially forsustainable development agenda through partnerwomen and youth.
ships for prosperity.” TICAD VI (Nairobi Declaration)is aimed to address Africa’s emerging development
The second pillar will strive to strengthen health syschallenges and respond strategically to pertinenttems in Africa by increasing the continent’s capaccontinental and global agreements such as the
ity to respond to public health crises such as Ebola,
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, theHIV/AIDS, tropical diseases and non-communicable
2030 Agenda for sustainable development and theParis Agreement on climate change. It is also aligned diseases so as to improve the quality of life. It alsoemphasizes on the importance of sexual and reproto the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and its first ten
year implementation plan (STISA 2024) is relevant to ductive health and family planning, bearing in mind
NEPAD programmes, regional and national develop- the reproductive rights and the rights of women andadolescent girls.
ment plans and strategic priorities.

A

Africa is facing challenges which have impacted its
development landscape since TICAD V in 2001. The
challenges include:- decline of global commodity
prices due to exacerbated fiscal pressure and debt
sustainability of many African countries, Ebola outbreak is a menace due to lack of resilient and sustainable health systems which has led to the loss of
lives and crippled socio-economic activities and therising wave of radicalization, terrorism that impedes
social cohesion.

The third pillar will resolve to promote social stability by responding comprehensively to security
concerns like terrorism and violent extremism which
has undermined international peace and security
by endangering the ongoing efforts to strengthen
regional and global security as well as the economy.
TICAD will also reform UN bodies including the
Security Council in order to maintain a political momentum through enhanced dialogue to find the best
approach.
29

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GrantsGRANTS RECEIVED BY THE ATPS DURING THE QUARTER
S/N Title of the project1
Hosting of African
Climate Change
Fellows andDocumentationof the impacts of
ACCFP Fellows on
climate change
adaptation andmitigation in Africa
since inception
2
Consultancy
Service for Dr.
Nicholas Ozor, ATPS
Executive Director
to draft the 2016
Africa Capacity
Report (ACR 2016)

Donor
African Climate
Change Fellowship
Program (ACCFP),
Institute ofResource
Assessment (IRA),
University of Dar es
Salaam, Tanzania

Project description
Grants received
The study presents an analysis of
US $ 27,586.00
the impact of the ACCFP program
as reported by Fellows in theircontribution to the climate science,education and policy development
for climate change adaptation andmitigation in Africa

African Capacity
Building
Foundation (ACBF)

3

Policy Landscaping
Study onRegulatory
Harmonisationof Veterinary
Products’Registration in East
AfricaImproving
Agricultural
Productivity andClimate Change
Resilience Using
the LandInfo
Mobile App
Technology

Global Alliancefor Livestock
Veterinary
Medicines(GALVmed)To draft the full Africa Capacity
US $ 25,000.00
Report on the theme ‘Capacity
for Science, Technology andInnovation in Africa’ based onown expertise and available
literature, the results obtained
from the survey conducted in 45
African countries, and the findings
from the case studies targeting
individual countries’ experiences.
A policy landscaping study for
US$ 65,000.00
determining the necessary steps
that Partner States of the East
African Community need to take atnational level to actualise mutual
recognition of registration ofveterinary vaccines.

5

ATPS Stakeholders’
Forum 2016 andBoard Meeting

African Economic
Research
Consortium (AERC)

6

ATPS Stakeholders’
Forum 2016 andBoard Meeting

Commercial Bankof Africa Limited
(CBA)

4

African Forum
for Agricultural
Advisory Services(AFAAS)

The project aims to address a
US$ 10,000.00
capacity development need
identified in most Africa’s national
capacity development strategies
by building the individual andinstitutional capacity to use
emerging Information andCommunication Technologies (ICTs)
such as mobile phone technology
as a tool for providing useful
information to enhance effective
decision-making for agricultural
productivity, sustainable land-use
management and climate change
resilience.
Professional association grant to
US$ 10,000.00
enable the hosting of the 25th
session of the Board meeting andStakeholder Forum 2016. ATPS
will be expected to submit anapproved final technical report anda one-page narrative of how the
grant benefitted the organization
thereafter.
Fund support towards the hostingof the 2016 ATPS Stakeholders’
Forum.

30

Kes. 50,000.00

www.atpsnet.org

Appointments

NEW APPOINTMENTS
Ms. Madonna Achieng is the Administration Assistant at ATPS. She
coordinates activities with the ATPS Secretary and ensures that there
is a good working environment at the office. She holds a Diploma in
Early Childhood Development Education and a Diploma in Beauty and
Hairdressing.

Mr. Peter Mwangi Chege is the driver/logistician at ATPS. He holds a
Diploma in Computer Networking Administration and a Certificate
in AutoMechanics. His main duties include: managing the office andthe Executive Director’s transportation, coordinating the receipt
and dispatch of letters, facilitates document processing with various
Government agencies and assists in settling office utility bills. He brings
a wealth of experience from Kenatico Taxi and Serena Hotels where heserved for nine years.

31www.atpsnet.org

Scholarships

SCHOLARSHIPS
Accelerating Digital Innovation In Media 2016
Applications are open for innovateAFRICA Fund, which is run by Code for Africa that aims to accelerate
digital innovation in watchdog media and civic news organizations by funding transformational ideas
and then continuing to support them through a network of peers and advisors. Winners will receive cash
grants of between $12,000 and $100,000 each to kick start their projects.
ELIGIBILITY•
innovateAFRICA is an open and worldwide contest. Anyone anywhere can therefore apply –as long as they have an African partner to help with implementation.
•
There is no other age or geographic restriction.
•
The competition is open to nonprofits, for-profits or individuals of any age, anywhere in theworld.
•
Awards to minors will be made to an intermediary designated by innovateAFRICA.
DEADLINE: December 1 2016
For more information please visit: https://innovateafrica.fund

Catto PhD Scholarships for Sub-Saharan African Students in UK,
2017
The Centre of African Studies at the University of Edinburgh is offering a fully-funded scholarships for SubSaharan African students. These scholarships are available for students starting a doctoral programme in
African Studies in September 2017.
ELIGIBILITY•
Applicants must reside in a country in Sub-Saharan Africa and be studying full-time towards a
PhD in African Studies. At the time of the scholarship deadline, applicants must have alreadyreceived an offer (conditional or unconditional) onto the PhD in African Studies programme.
•
Applicants must be able to demonstrate exceptional academic skills and achievements. Preference
will be given to those proposing a doctoral research project in conflict resolution, elections,peace-building and/or governance in African contexts, although other topics in the field of politics
and international development may be considered.
NATIONALITY: Citizens of Sub-Saharan Africa can apply for this scholarship.
DEADLINE: May 1, 2017.
For more information please visit: http://scholarship-positions.com/catto-phd-scholarship-sub-saharanafrican-students-uk/2016/11/07/32

www.atpsnet.org

Opportunities

OPPORTUNITIES
Africa Energy Forum Off the Grid Summit

The first Africa Energy Forum-Off the Grid will be held in Tanzania from 6-8 December 2016. The forum will
focus on project opportunities for mini and off grid technology providers working in Africa’s energy space.
The Summit will bring together ministries of energy, rural electrification agencies, philanthropic businessfoundations, banks, regulatory bodies, multilateral organisations and off grid businesses to discuss topicalissues concerning rolling out off-grid projects across Africa.
For more information please visit: http://www.energynet.co.uk/event/africa-energy-forum-grid-2016

Science Forum South Africa
The South African Department of Science and Technology will host the second Science Forum in South
Africa from 8-9 December 2016. The Forum will again serve as a large, open, public platform for debating
the science and society interface.
Key characteristics of Science Forum South Africa 2016 (SFSA2016) will include:• A provocative and stimulating forum programme comprising several parallel sessions, addressing a diverse
range of science and science policy orientated themes;• A rich diversity in the background of participants, comprising scientists, students, public and private sector
representatives as well as civil society constituents;• A forum programme not only compiled “top-down” by the organisers but also enabling public input
through a competitive call for proposals for the organisation of sessions; and• A strong international dimension to the event, reflected by the participation of speakers and attendees
from a diverse range of countries, especially from Africa.
For more information please visit: http://www.sfsa.co.za/

33

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Photo Gallery

PHOTO GALLERY - ATPS STAKEHOLDERS’ FORUM

Prof. Arsene Konnan Koauadio, National
Chapter Coordinator Ivory Coast addressing
delegates during the forum.

Dr. Nicholas Ozor (left) and Prof. Michael
Madukwe (right) during the stakeholders’forum.

Dr. Sheila Maina makes her opening remarks todelegates at the forum.

ATPS Stakeholders share insightful ideas during
one of the break-out sessions.

Dr. Nicholas Ozor(left), Dr. Mustafa El Tayed(centre) and Nadia Hassan Sidahmed (right)
share some thoughts during tea break.

Mr. Victor Emeka (left), AYFST Chairperson adressing
various delegates at the forum. On the right: Mrs.
Grace Achiando from Egerton University.
34

www.atpsnet.org

Photo Gallery

PHOTO GALLERY - ATPS BOARD MEMBERS

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak
Board Chair

Prof. Peggy Oti-Boateng
MemberMr. Chuma Ikenze
MemberDr. Mustafa El Tayed
MemberATPS board members during their meeting which
was held on 30th July, 2016 at Silver Springs
Hotel, Nairobi Kenya.

Dr. Nicholas Ozor
Ex-Officio Member
35www.atpsnet.org

ATPS National Chapter Coordinators

ATPS NATIONAL CHAPTER COORDINATORS
Australia
Mr. David Doepel
Chair, Africa Research Group,
Murdoch University
90 South Street
MurdochWestern Australia 6150
Tel: +61418912287
Email: d.doepel@murdoch.edu.au

Cote d’Ivore
Dr. Arsène Kouadio,
Associate Professor, University of
Abidjan-Cocody ; Researcher, CIRES
Director, Laboratoire de croissance
Economique
Executive Director, Institut pour leDéveloppement (IPD),
Coordinator, ATPS Côe d’Ivoire,
Coordinator, RIA Côte d’Ivoire,
Fellow Researcher, AERC, Poverty
Benin
Economic Policy (PEP),
Dr. Roch L. Mongbo
Cocody, Boulelevard Latrille
Senior Lecturer & Researcher
08 B.P. 1295 Abidjan 08, Côte d’Ivoire
Tel : +225 22 44 60 99
Director of LADyD (Lab for Social
Dynamics and Development Studies) Fax: +225 22 48 82 84
Mobile : +225 07 98 46 80 /Universite’ d’Abomey-Calavi,Benin
05 95 97 91
02 BP 778 Gbe’gamey
E-mail: arsene.k@ipd-ci.org
Cotonou, Beninarsenekk@yahoo.fr
Tel: +229-21360126
arsenekouadio@hotmail.com
Cell : +229-95966446 / 97374797
Email: rmongbo@intnet.bj or
Egypt
Rochl_mongbo@yahoo.com
Ms. Manal Moustafa Samra
Focal Point Coordinator
Botswana
45 Noubar Street, Bab El-Louk
Dr. John Mothibi
8th Floor, Apt 29,Cairo
Lecturer, Faculty of Engineering &EgyptTechnology
Tel: +20105005284
University of Botswana
Email: mmsamra@gmail.com
P/Bag 0061
Gaborone, Botswana
Ethiopia
Tel: +267 3554348
Mr. Wondwossen Belete,
Fax: +267 3952309
Ag. National CoordinatorE-mail: mothibij@mopipi.ub.bw
Director of Intellectual Property
Protection and Technology Transfer,
Burkina Faso
Ethiopian Industrial Property
Dr. Benoit Kabore
Organization (EIPO)
Université de Ouagadougou
Email: wondwossenbel@yahoo.com
01 BP 4487
Ouagadougou 01
GambiaBurkina Faso
VacantTel: 226 812008/380715
Email: benkabor2003@yahoo.fr
Ghana
Dr. Fred Amu-Mensah
Cameroon
Senior Research Scientist
Prof. Sylvester Ndeso Atanga
CSIR Water Research InstituteSenior Visiting Lecturer,
P.O. Box M.32
Epidemology & Public HealthAccra, Ghana
Faculty of Health Sciences
Tel: +233-24-4748197
University of Buea
Fax: +233 21 77 7170
P.O. Box 63
Email: assabil@aim.com orSouth West Province
obeyie@gmail.com
Republic of Cameroon
Tel: + 237-653774599/ 243094176
Cell: +237-99841433
Email: silawrence2011@gmail.com
or ndesoatpscamnet@
rocketmail.com

36

Kenya
Mr. Kenneth Williams Aduda
Senior Research Fellow
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University
P.O. Box 201 - 40601
Bondo, Kenya
Tel: +254 057 - 2501804
Fax: +254 057 - 2523851
Email: adudakenwo@gmail.com
Lesotho
Mr. Denis Sekoja Phakisi
Acting National Coordinator
Manufacturing Manager
Loti Brick
P.O. Box 8008, Maseru 100, Lesotho
Tel: +266 5885 3389
Fax: +266 22310071
Email: ds.phakisi@lycos.com
Liberia
Dr. Wollor Emmanuel Topor
National Coordinator
Acting Dean
College of Science and Technology
University of Liberia
Tel: + 231-6875802
Email: wollortopor@yahoo.com
Malawi
Kingdom M. Kwapata
Bunda College, P.O. Box 219,
Lilongwe, Malawi
Tel: +265 999195477
E-mail: kwapata@yahoo.com
Mali
Dr. Sidiki Gabriel Dembele
Agrochimie/Agroforesterie etFertilité des sols
Bureau Ouest-Africain d’Appui
Organisational et de Technologies
Appropiées
B.P. E 3730, Bamako, Mali
Tél. : (223) 226 2012
Fax : (223) 226 2504
Cell : (223) 71 3806
Email: sidikigabriel@hotmail.com
or ousmanenia2000@yahoo.fr

www.atpsnet.org

ATPS National Chapter Coordinators

ATPS NATIONAL CHAPTER COORDINATORS
MoroccoProf. Saïd Boujraf
National Coordinator
Director of the Clinical Neuroscience
Laboratory
Department of Biophysics andClinical MRI Methods
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy,
University of Fez
BP. 1893; Km 2.200, Sidi Hrazem
Road,
Fez 30000, MoroccoTel: +212 667 780 442
Fax: +212 535 619 321
E-mail: sboujraf@gmail.com
MozambiqueEng. Lourino Alberto Chemane
ICT and Planning Advisor
Executive Secretariat, ICT Policy
Commission
Bairro da Coop
Rua Particular Dr. Antonio deAlmeida61 R/C Direito, Maputo
MozambiqueTel: +258 21 309398
Fax: +258 21 302289
Cell : +258 82 3110700
Email: chemane@infopol.gov.mz

Sierra Leone
Mr. Chris Squire
Head, Dept of MechanicalEngineering
Fourah Bay College
University of Sierra Leone
Mount Auroel
PMB Freetown Sierra Leone
Tel: +232 22 227831
Fax: +232 22 227453
Cell: +232 76 610600
Email: squirechris15@yahoo.com
SenegalDr. Papa Alioune Sarr Ndiaye
ESP BP 15475 DAKAR Fann
SénégalTél : Bureau (221) 864 54 18
Fax : (221) 864 21 43
Domicile (221) 820 23 88
Cellulaire (221) 634 58 88
Email : pndiaye@ucad.sn or
papealiounen@yahoo.fr
South Africa
Professor Mark Swilling
Stellenbosch University, Private Bag
X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
Cell: +27(0)83-459 7417
Tel: +27(0)21-881 3196
Fax: +27(0)21 - 881 3294
Email: swilling@sun.ac.za

NigeriaProf. Michael C. Madukwe
Professor, Department of Agricultural Sudan
Extension
Mrs. Nadia Hassan Sidahmed
University of Nigeria
Economic Studies Department
Nsukka, Enugu State
Industrial Research & Consultancy
Nigeria
Centre (IRCC) Sudan
Tel: +234 42 771019
Tel: +249 911449106
Fax: +234 42 771500
Email: nadiahsh@yahoo.co.uk
Cell: +234 803 700 6968
Email: madukwe@hotmail.com or
Swaziland
madukwemichael@yahoo.com
Dr. Musa Dube
Senior Lecturer
Prof. Femi Olokesusi
Faculty of Agriculture
Nigerian Institute for Social andUniversity of Swaziland
Economic Research (NISER)
Luyengo Campus
P.M.B 5 UI Post Office
P. O. Luyengo, Swaziland
Oyo Road, Ojoo, Ibadan, Nigeria
Email: madube@uniswa.sz
Tel: 234-8023322052/ 8073132917
Fax: +234 2 2413121
Email: femioloke@yahoo.com

Tanzania
Dr. Hassan Mshinda
Director General
RwandaTanzania Commission for ScienceDr. Marie-Christine Gasingirwa,
and Technology
Director General, Science,
P.O. Box 4302,
Technology and Research,Dar-es-Salaam Tanzania.
Ministry of Education, Rwanda.
Email: cgasingirwa@mineduc.gov.rw Email: hmshinda@costech.or.tz

37

United Kingdom
Mrs. Martha Ada Ugwu
National Coordinator
59 Highgrove Road
Walderslade, Chatham
Kent, ME5 7SF, UK
Tel: +4401634310389/07985476289
Email: Martha.ugwu@yahoo.co.uk
or Martha@ugwu.fsworld.co.uk
UgandaMr. John Okuonzi
National Coordinator
Kyambogo University
Faculty of Engineering, Department
of Electrical and Electronic
Engineering,
P.O. Box 1, Kyambogo, kampala,ugandaTel: +256 782 353034
Email: jokuonzi@kyu.ac.ug or
okuonzijohnie@yahoo.com
United States of America.
Dr. Anthony C Ikeme
National Coordinator
President & CEO
Clintriad Pharma Services
102 Pickering Way, Suite 200
Exton, PA 19341
Tel: 484.753.3405
Cell: 215.380.9920
Fax: 610.384.5455
Email: aikeme@clintriad.com
ZambiaMs Lilian ZULU
Coordinator, Centre for Energy
Environment and Engineering Zambia(CEEEZ) Ltd, 176 Parirenyatwa Road
Suite B. Fairview, P/B E721
Lusaka, Zambia
Tel/Fax: +260 211 223118
Email: ceeez@zamnet.zm or
lmunyeka@yahoo.com
Zimbabwe
Mr. Benson Zwizwai
Economics Department, Universityof Zimbabwe
P. O. Box 880
Harare, Zimbabwe
Tel: +263 772494902
Fax: +263 4 333345
Cell: +263 912245614
Email: bmutzwizwai@yahoo.com

African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)
8th Floor, Chancery Building, Valley Road
P.O. Box 10081-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: +254 20271 4092; Fax: +254 20 2714028
Email: info@atpsnet.org
Url: http://www.atpsnet.org
Skype: ATPS Network

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