1st May 2026
By Peace Ahovi
Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WASCAL and Lancaster University, both institutions have moved decisively into the implementation phase of their collaboration, reaffirming a shared commitment to transforming partnerships into impactful actions.
This is evidence, as WASCAL hosts a high-level Africa Research and Innovation Partnership (ARIP) Workshop on developing a competitive Horizon Europe Proposal at its headquarters in Accra, Ghana. The workshop formed part of efforts to strengthen Africa-Europe research and innovation collaboration and position African institutions for competitive international funding opportunities.
Delivering the welcome address, Prof. Emmanuel Wendsongré Ramdé, Executive Director of WASCAL, reaffirmed WASCAL’s commitment to building impactful international partnerships that strengthen climate research, innovation, and sustainable development across Africa. He stressed the importance of translating institutional partnerships into practical outcomes that benefit African communities and research ecosystems.
The workshop featured Professor Kirk T. Semple, University Director of International Research at Lancaster University, who provided an overview of the Horizon Europe Africa Initiative programmes and opportunities for African institutions, highlighting pathways for stronger Africa-Europe research collaboration.
A key highlight of the engagement was the high-level technical discussions led by Dr. Akanimo Odon, Head of Africa Strategic Partnerships at Lancaster University, who guided participants through Horizon Europe funding opportunities, proposal development approaches, and strategic areas for competitive collaboration. Discussions focused on climate-smart agriculture, sustainable management of the water-nutrient-energy nexus, food security, circular bioeconomy, and innovative pathways to climate resilience in Africa.
Participants engaged in collaborative sessions to identify research priorities, business opportunities, strategic European partnerships, and innovative solutions aligned with Horizon Europe expectations.
The workshop further demonstrated the strength of the Africa Research and Innovation Partnership (ARIP) in connecting academia, policymakers, private sector actors, and communities to address global challenges through locally relevant and measurable solutions.
As WASCAL continues to strengthen its global partnerships, this engagement reflects a clear institutional approach. It is to demonstrate that “WASCAL not only signs MoUs, but it also actively implements collaborations to deliver meaningful outcomes for climate resilience, research excellence, and sustainable development across Africa.”
