SGCI News
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen research and innovation systems across Africa, the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) continues to support collaboration, learning, and capacity development among national…
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen research and innovation systems across Africa, the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) continues to support collaboration, learning, and capacity development among national science funding agencies.
In this spirit, the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) and the West African Research and Innovation Management Association (WARIMA) partnered to support the Fonds National de la Recherche et de l’Innovation pour le Développement (FONRID) during a Technical Assistance Visit held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from 30 September to 2 October 2025.
The three-day in-country programme brought together FONRID staff to explore key aspects of research management, including professionalisation through the International Professional Recognition Council (IPRC), strategies for addressing barriers and promoting sustainable and equitable research funding aligned with national and global priorities, and approaches for strengthening engagement with government and community stakeholders.

Expert facilitation was led by Cheick Oumar Tangara from Mali and Jean Pierre N’Guessan from Senegal, both recognised leaders in research funding and management.
The facilitators guidance fostered dynamic discussions and practical insights aimed at enhancing institutional practices and regional collaboration.
The SGCI extends its warm appreciation to FONRID for their exceptional hospitality and commitment to shared learning.
This engagement highlights the power of regional exchange and the growing momentum toward professionalised research management within Francophone Science Granting Councils, advancing a more resilient, connected, and impactful African research ecosystem.
Please check out the stories and let us know what you think. We would love to hear from you!
Let’s continue the conversation on our social media
Published on 23 October 2025
Related News
STISA-2034: Councils drive access to Africa’s research opportunity
For a continental research opportunity to deliver impact, researchers need to know whether they are eligible, understand how the opportunity fits their work, find the right partners, and navigate the application process. This is where Africa’s Science Granting Councils have a critical role to play….
How Africa’s STI partnerships and co-investment drive lasting impact
Science, technology, and innovation (STI) in Africa are critical to the continent’s future development and growth. From strengthening skills and institutions to applying science in industry, research goals are interconnected and build on one another. Under STISA-2034, no single institution, funder, or country can deliver…
Namibia’s young innovators showcase solutions at Falling Walls Lab
Namibia’s young innovators are developing practical solutions to some of the country’s pressing challenges, from improving mobility for people with visual impairments to finding ways of storing solar energy for use when sunlight is unavailable. These ideas were showcased at the Falling Walls Lab Namibia…
Research and Resources
SGCI funded projects
Rwanda’s integrated approach to sustainable agriculture and nutrition
Project Titles & Institution Areas of Research Number of Projects being funded Project Duration Grant Amount In-Kind Distribution Council Collaboration with other councils



