Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a partnership agreement to bolster scientific collaboration between Japan and Africa. The agreement covering December 2025 to November 2029 period, falls under the Japan-Africa Research Networking Project, which aims to advance science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development in the continent.
The partnership seeks to create a sustainable network linking African and Japanese universities and private sectors, with JKUAT/PAUSTI positioned as the central hub. By fostering joint research initiatives, the collaboration will generate solutions to Africa’s socio-economic challenges, ensuring that outcomes are developed and implemented within African institutions to drive locally relevant and impactful development.
The agreement will further prioritize the advancement of gender equality and the empowerment of women as a fundamental element of its mission.
On Monday, February 3, 2024, a JICA delegation, led by Mr. Mochizuki Hiroshi, visited JKUAT to discuss strategies for enhancing research networks and building long lasting academic partnerships. During the meeting, both parties finalized the project design matrix, outlining key deliverables such as academic exchanges, joint research programs, and capacity-building initiatives.
Mr. Mochizuki stated that the partnership aims to combine Japan’s technological expertise with Africa’s vast research potential to address global challenges.
Acting JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ikua, hailed the project as a transformative step in advancing interdisciplinary research and fostering global cooperation. He highlighted its potential to strengthen academic and scientific ties, drive innovation, and tackle pressing challenges through collaborative efforts.
“This partnership offers a unique opportunity to bridge knowledge gaps, spur innovation, and create a lasting impact on Africa’s research landscape,” said Prof. Ikua.
The Project Manager and Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua, emphasized the initiative’s potential to nurture young researchers and drive technological advancements across Africa.
Africa-ai-Japan, Project Advisor, Prof. Hiroshi Koaze pledged his full support to the project while thanking the university management for fostering a long-lasting partnership with Japanese universities.
