NRF Champions Stronger African Research Systems at SGCI Phase 3 Launch
The National Research Fund (NRF), through its Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Dickson Andala, participated in the launch of Phase 3 of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The event brought together 20 national science granting councils from across sub-Saharan Africa to strengthen science, technology, and innovation (STI) systems on the continent.
SGCI Phase 3 is designed to support the African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2034), providing a platform for African research institutions to share expertise, adopt best practices, and collaborate on solutions to pressing challenges including climate change, health threats, food insecurity, and rapid technological transformation.
NRF Kenya’s Strategic Role
Through engagements like this, NRF is able to contribute to shaping stronger, more resilient research systems while advancing its mandate to mobilize, manage, and allocate research funding. Participation allows The Fund to:
- Strengthen research governance and grant management systems
- Enhance transparency, accountability, and impact in publicly funded research
- Expand collaboration opportunities for Kenyan researchers at the regional and continental level
- Align Kenya’s research priorities with broader African STI strategies
By taking an active role, NRF ensures that Kenyan research remains globally competitive, development-focused, and integrated within continental science networks.
Continental and International Support
Phase 3 is supported by CAD 57 million (approximately USD 42 million) from international partners including:
- International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
- Government of Norway
- Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
- Wellcome Trust
- Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)
- National Research Foundation (NRF South Africa)
This builds on a commitment made by SGCI Councils in September 2025 to work with the African Union to strengthen STI systems that drive sustainable development across Africa.
