Matchmaking for proposals for the 6th Call

Background Information

In 2023, the Shakahola region in Kilifi County, Kenya, experienced a tragic event involving the discovery of mass graves tied to a religious cult in the nearby Shakahola Forest. The cult allegedly convinced followers, including children, to engage in many days of uninterrupted fasting with promises of salvation, resulting in devastating loss of lives and suffering among the followers. The aftermath of this event left the region in a state of crisis, with significant mental health concerns among the local community, and especially children who witnessed or were indirectly affected by the tragic event in their region.

Post-crisis mental health assessments are crucial in understanding the short- and long-term effects of traumatic events on children. The well-being of school-going children in Shakahola is directly tied to their ability to cope, learn, and develop into healthy adults. However, little is known about the mental health impact of this specific crisis on the children in the region. This study seeks to address this knowledge gap by conducting a post-crisis mental health assessment of school-going children, intending to inform interventions to support their recovery.

Problem Statement

In the aftermath of the crisis in Shakahola, there is an urgent need to assess the mental health of affected children. These children might be experiencing increased emotional distress, yet they live in a community with limited mental health resources. Without prompt intervention, their mental health issues could affect their academic performance, social relationships, and long-term development. The absence of current data on their mental health after the crisis makes it hard to create targeted support programs. This study aims to evaluate the mental health effects of the crisis on school children in Shakahola, identify key contributing factors, and suggest appropriate interventions to promote resilience and recovery.

Study Objectives

• 1. To assess the prevalence and severity of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and behavioral disorders among school-going children in Shakahola following the continuous crisis.

• 2. To identify socio-economic, familial, and environmental factors that have influenced the mental health of children in the region post-crisis.

• 3. To evaluate the availability, accessibility, and effectiveness of mental health support systems for children in Shakahola.

• 4. To develop recommendations for post-crisis mental health interventions in schools and communities

• 5. To work on the socio-economic support recommended to support the children who suffer loss of parents, post-traumatic stress disorders, and school dropout.

Methodology

This study will adopt a mixed-methods approach to comprehensively assess the mental health status of school-going children in the Shakahola region following the recent crisis. The methodology combines quantitative and qualitative techniques to provide both statistical analysis and in-depth insights into the children's mental health conditions.

Study Design

The study will be a cross-sectional, descriptive survey with elements of comparative analysis (with mental health assessments done in schools from other regions in Kilifi) to evaluate the current mental health status of children and examine the impact of the recent crisis. The use of both quantitative and qualitative methods will allow for a deeper understanding of the factors affecting mental health in this population.

Study Population

The study will focus on school-going children aged 6–18 years in the Shakahola region. These children represent a vulnerable group that has experienced the recent crisis and are now coping with its aftermath. Both primary and secondary schools in the region will be included in the study.

Sampling Strategy

The study will involve 400 students from a primary school and 200 students from a secondary school in Shakahola region. These two schools are strategically situated and purposely chosen due to their vicinity to the event site.

Contact: Alice Anika –Pwani University, School of Education, Educational Psychology and Special Needs Department, a.anika@pu.ac.ke

Abstract

Agriculture remains the backbone of livelihoods in Sub-Saharan Africa, yet it is increasingly threatened by climate variability, land degradation, and unsustainable farming practices. Building resilient and sustainable farming systems is therefore critical to achieving food security, poverty reduction, and environmental sustainability in the region. This project, “Building Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Farming Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa through Austria–Africa Partnerships”, seeks to foster joint research, knowledge exchange, and innovation between Austrian and African partner institutions. The initiative will combine Austria’s expertise in sustainable agricultural technologies, agroecological practices, and climate-smart innovations with African partners’ deep knowledge of local farming systems, indigenous practices, and community-based adaptation strategies. Through a multi-stakeholder approach, the project will focus on three core areas: developing and testing climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural practices; strengthening farmers' capacities through participatory training, co-creation, and knowledge transfer; and enhancing policy dialogue and institutional collaboration to scale best practices across Sub-Saharan Africa. By linking research with practice, the project aims to generate context-specific solutions that enhance soil health, improve water management, and promote crop diversification, while reducing vulnerability to climate-related shocks. In doing so, it will contribute to Africa-UniNet’s objectives of fostering equitable Austria–Africa partnerships, advancing scientific cooperation, and supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Contact: Faraja Sanga (PhD), Ruaha Catholic University, Department of Humanities, Iringa, Tanzania, faraja.sanga@rucu.ac.tz
 

Abstract

Access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy remains a critical challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where millions of people still depend on traditional biomass and fossil fuels for daily needs. This dependence exacerbates poverty, increases health risks, and contributes to environmental degradation, while limiting opportunities for inclusive development. At the same time, the region faces urgent climate vulnerabilities that demand a rapid yet just transition to sustainable energy systems. The project, “Accelerating the Transition to Clean Energy for Creating a Just and Equitable Climate Future in Sub-Saharan Africa”, aims to foster Austria–Africa partnerships to drive innovation, capacity building, and policy support for clean energy transitions that leave no community behind. The initiative will integrate Austrian expertise in renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency, and climate policy with African partners’ contextual knowledge, community networks, and indigenous energy practices. Activities will focus on three priority areas: developing and piloting decentralized renewable energy solutions for rural and peri-urban communities; enhancing knowledge exchange and technical training to build local capacity for clean energy deployment; and supporting inclusive policy frameworks that promote energy justice, gender equity, and community participation in energy planning. By advancing equitable access to clean energy, the project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance livelihoods, and enhance climate resilience in Sub-Saharan Africa. In doing so, it will directly contribute to Africa-UniNet’s goals of fostering collaborative research between Austria and Africa, while supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Contact: Faraja Sanga (PhD), Ruaha Catholic University, Department of Humanities, Iringa, Tanzania, faraja.sanga@rucu.ac.tz

Abstract

Accurate and reliable diagnosis is critical for the effective management of malaria in pregnancy (MiP), yet it remains a major challenge. According to WHO guidelines, malaria diagnosis should be confirmed using either microscopy or rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) before treatment (Makuuchi et al., 2017) . However, these conventional tools often fail to detect low-density parasitaemia, mixed-species infections, and non-falciparum malaria, leaving many cases undiagnosed (Budodo et al., 2025; Tamir et al., 2025). These hidden infections, many of which are asymptomatic, act as silent reservoirs that sustain transmission and contribute to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes such as maternal anaemia, low birth weight, and increased morbidity and mortality (Alemayehu et al., 2024; Beeson & Opi, 2025). 
Advanced molecular tools such as multiplex qPCR provide superior sensitivity and enable differentiation of Plasmodium species, thereby overcoming the limitations of microscopy and RDTs (Dahal et al., 2021; Opoku Afriyie et al., 2023). This study seeks to address the diagnostic gap in Busia County, a high-transmission setting, by detecting malaria parasites in pregnant women at delivery using microscopy, mRDT, and qPCR; estimating the prevalence of MiP, and identifying Plasmodium species. Findings from this study will establish accurate diagnostic tools for MiP, reveal the hidden burden of submicroscopic and non-falciparum malaria, and provide evidence to guide National Malaria Control Programme policies. Ultimately, the study will inform decisions on diagnostic strategies, support timely treatment, and contribute to the reduction of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, advancing progress toward malaria elimination.

Contact: Bartholomew Ondigo, Egerton University, Kenya, ondigo2002@gmail.com

Abstract

The Southern Highlands of Tanzania are critical for national food production, hydropower generation, and water supply for downstream communities. However, the region is facing intensifying water insecurity due to seasonal variability, declining springs and shallow wells, and the degradation of catchments. The key drivers for water insecurity include massive expansion of pine and eucalyptus plantations, which reduce water availability by increasing evapotranspiration and lowering groundwater recharge. The over drivers are agricultural encroachment into fragile catchment areas and poor land-use practices, including unsustainable farming on steep slopes. These pressures have contributed to declining base flows, seasonal drying of streams, contamination of water sources, and increased drought risks. Communities especially women and girls who shoulder the burden of water collection are disproportionately affected. Water insecurity undermines health (SDG 3), food security (SDG 2), gender equality (SDG 5), and livelihoods (SDG 1 and SDG 8). There is urgent need for integrated, climate-smart water management approaches that combine nature-based solutions, community-based governance, and resilient infrastructure to restore water security and safeguard ecosystem services. Goal of the project: To increase water security and climate resilience for vulnerable communities in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania through integrated catchment restoration and climate-smart water management. Specific Objectives of the project:  Restore and protect 3,000–5,000 hectares of degraded upland catchments through reforestation with indigenous species, controlled farming practices, and soil conservation measures, thereby improving base flows and reducing erosion, Rehabilitate and climate-proof small water supply and irrigation systems to ensure reliable, safe, and equitable water access for households and productive use in agriculture, Strengthen local governance and institutional capacity at community and district levels for sustainable and participatory water resource management and promote alternative livelihoods and climate-smart agriculture to reduce pressure on catchments while improving food security and incomes. The project will adopt a participatory, multi-stakeholder approach that integrates scientific knowledge, traditional practices, and local governance structures. Collaboration with Africa-UniNet will enable technical exchange, capacity building, and applied research on water-forest-agriculture interactions.

Contact: Faraja Sanga (PhD),  Ruaha Catholic University, Department of Humanities, Iringa, Tanzania, faraja.sanga@rucu.ac.tz 

Abstract

Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) is a renewable and non-edible by-product of the cashew processing industry. While it has been transformed to many useful products in developed countries, it is majorly a waste product in many African countries where cashew trees are majorly found. CNSL is a promising raw material for different chemistry synthesis and applications due to its unique phenolic composition, biodegradability, and availability. Its three major isolates (anacardic acid, cardol and cardanol) have been transformed into many useful products. Some metal complexes with very good antibacterial properties of these isolates have been established. This research proposes the development of sustainable metal complexes of saturated cardol and cardanol, with possible antimicrobial, anticancer, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic applications.

The study aims to utilize both cardol and cardanol to synthesize these complexes via direct mixing and co-precipitation methods. The research will be a collaborative effort between chemists, biologists and pharmacologists. Some cardanol/cardol-complexes with very good therapeutic applications are expected from this research, which can be further processed for drug discovery and development. It is expected that the success of the research will not only minimize waste but transform waste to wealth, thus achieving double benefits.

Contact: Oke David Gbenga, Bowen University, oke.david@bowen.edu.ng

Abstract

Aquaculture presents a transformative opportunity for rural livelihoods in Kenya by enhancing food security, increasing income, and reducing poverty. However, its expansion is hindered by the reliance on fishmeal—an expensive and ecologically unsustainable protein source for aqua feeds. Concurrently, malnutrition remains a critical challenge, necessitating innovative, nutrition-sensitive interventions. The NutriSaq project proposes integrating Spirulina (Arthrospira fusiformis) farming into small-scale aquaculture systems as a sustainable solution to enhance feed availability, improve nutrition, and create economic opportunities. Spirulina, a nutrient-rich microalga, offers a high-protein, essential amino acid, and micronutrient profile while promoting circular economy principles through resource-efficient production and reduced environmental impacts. This project pursues three key objectives: (i) integrating Spirulina farming within smallholder aquaculture to enhance cost-effective, high-quality fish feed production; (ii) improving household nutrition by evaluating the dietary impact of Spirulina-enriched aquaculture products in mitigating malnutrition; and (iii) assessing economic benefits, and gender-inclusive livelihood opportunities associated with integrated aqua-spirulina farming. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, including participatory training, demonstration plots at Maseno University, and technical support to facilitate adoption. Adoption rates and system performance will be monitored through surveys and field observations. Nutritional benefits will be assessed via laboratory analysis of Spirulina-enriched fish for protein, omega-3, and micronutrient content.  Economic and social impacts will be evaluated using cost-benefit analysis, econometric modeling, and qualitative assessments. Environmental sustainability will be monitored through water quality testing and life cycle assessments. NutriSaq will foster resilient livelihoods and enhance food and nutrition security for rural Kenyan communities by addressing key constraints in feed costs and malnutrition.

Contact: Oscar Ouma, Maseno University, Kenya, kaudo2015@gmail.com

Abstract

The Lake Victoria Basin (LVB) is an important regional socio-ecological system that supports multiple economic activities including tourism. However, the ecosystem faces a myriad of threats to their functions; climate change being the most prominent. Climate change has negatively affected sustainability of the tourism sector in the LVB since the industry is highly dependent on natural resources. Thus necessitates the tourism sector in the LVB to adapt to a changing climate. This project will adopt ecosystem-based adaptation approaches to climate change impacts on tourism in LVB, Kenya; which is currently limited. The project  will investigate the application of ecosystem-based adaptation approaches to overcome impacts of climate change on the tourism sector in LVB, Kenya. The partnership aims at mutual transfer of knowledge, research expertise and skills that will aid in addressing development gaps of the partnered countries. The study will address the following research questions: (i) what are the perceived impacts of climate change on tourism in the LVB, East Africa ? (ii) Which ecosystem-based adaptation approaches to climate change have been implemented by the tourism sector in the LVB, East Africa? (iii) What trade-offs and synergies result from the implementation of ecosystem-based adaptation strategies in LVB, East Africa? (iv). How does the trade-offs and synergies contribute to the long term sustainability of tourism in the LVB, East Africa ? The study findings will be used to train professionals in tourism on ecosystem-based adaptation approaches to climate change and inform policy makers and host communities on ecosystem-based adaptation approaches that will enhance sustainability of the tourism sector in East Africa.

Contact: Oscar Ouma, Maseno University, Kenya, kaudo2015@gmail.com

Abstract

Climate change-induced extremes like droughts and floods disproportionately impact women and men in Kenya’s agro-pastoral communities due to pre-existing gender inequalities. Standard Early Warning Systems (EWS) often overlook these gendered dimensions, leading to ineffective warnings, response and mal-adaptation. The G-REWAS project will addresses this critical gap. The project will use participatory action research to design gender-responsive EWS and adaptation strategies. The project will further intergrate local gendered knowledge with scientific data to enhance community resilience, directly contribute to SDGs 5 (Gender Equality), 13 (Climate Action), and 2 (Zero Hunger) to establish a sustainable framework for gender inclusive climate risk management.

Contact: Prof. Nelson Obange (PhD), Maseno University, Kenya, nelson.obange@gmail.com; nobange@maseno.ac.ke

Abstract

The population of countries in Africa is growing at an alarming rate engendering massive turnout of wastes in liquid and solid forms. This in turn have resulted in the ugly waste accumulation and environmental degradation scenario currently experienced in most African countries to which a sustainable solution is yet to be provided. To address this trend in waste generation and improper management, it is imperative to develop sustainable solutions via the deployment of microbial-based biorefineries in order to achieve a circular bioeconomy for the continent. Biorefineries offers efficient and environmentally-friendly solutions geared towards the generation of multiple products from a single waste stream. In this regard, this grant will be deployed in the creation of awareness of biorefineries and circular bioeconomy across Africa as a pioneering initiative. The target audience will be undergraduate students in selected Universities in Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and Rwanda. These students will be formed into special campaign groups and will be coordinated by partnering lecturers and mentors from across the Universities. Awareness will take the form of town hall meetings, print and online media and inter-university visitations. It is hoped that these students who will imbibe the culture of sustainable management will become ambassadors to further spread the knowledge and create enabling influences on the society in form of trainings after graduation. It is hoped that the project will help create a new wave of research, awareness, knowledge transfer and sustainable industry partnerships on the need to establish biorefineries in Africa towards the creation of a circular bioeconomy for the continent. The horizon of the project will widen with more funding from others sources afterwards.

Contact: Olatunde Samuel Dahunsi, Bowen University, Nigeria, olatunde.dahunsi@bowen.edu.ng 

Abstract

Soil nutrient depletion is a recurrent scenario across African countries and has caused enormous nutrient loss and have contributed immensely to food insecurity and climate adaptation. Chief among the nutrients is Nitrogen, a macroelement and an essential component of amino acids is one of the major constituents of the atmosphere, comprising 78% of the total atmospheric gas. However, this important element cannot be fixed directly by both plants and animals but could be obtained from other organic sources. Nature has devised a means to balancing this deficit in nitrogen utilization by equipping microbes with the capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen directly to plants either as free-living fixers or as symbiotic fixers. Biological nitrogen fixation is an environment-friendly process that is reported to the ammonium form of nitrogen which can be converted to other forms of nitrogen. The roots of vegetables like legume (cowpea) are noted for developing symbiotic relationship with nitrogen fixing rhizobia thus making atmospheric nitrogen available for legume utilization. Similarly, Azospirillum, an associative nitrogen fixer is extensively reported to be able to fix nitrogen directly to the roots of grasses and cereals through symbiotic association with them. Whereas, Azotobacter are free living nitrogen fixer capable of nitrogen fixation in grasses such as rice, millet, maize etc. It is therefore proposed in this research to explore the possible synergistic effects of combining the nitrogen fixing bacteria as biofertilizers by inoculating them onto a nitrogen-free or poor organic soil structure amender i.e., biochar in order to enhance the modification of soil structure, increase ionic reactions as well supplying ample amount of nitrogen to the soil and the crops planted on it i.e., vegetables and legume. The technological gap to be filled in validating this innovation will be a robust and accurate field measurements of biological nitrogen fixation by deploying novel biosensors, spectral analysis, infra-red and or any other fast and low-cost methodology. This will help to develop strategies to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, fertilizer runoff, and water pollution. Besides, the grant will be use to create awareness and promotion of the newly developed biofertilizer and this will further boost its adoption and application on the industrial scale.

Contact: Olatunde Samuel Dahunsi, Bowen University, Nigeria, olatunde.dahunsi@bowen.edu.ng

Abstract

Green marketing practices is an approach that encompasses various actions and practices such as altering products, changing production processes, adjusting to environmentally sustainable packaging, introducing sustainable distribution channels, and modifying communication, all aimed at reducing negative environmental impact and enhancing sustainability in business dealings (Khandelwal & Yadav, 2014). Majority of the studies (Fraj et al, 2011; Ko & Jeon, 2024; Utama, 2024; Al-Dmour et al, 2023; Choudhury et at, 2019; Zampese et al, 2016; Khaleeli et al, 2021; Mukonza and Swarts, 2020) and Afande, 2015) reviewed on Green marketing practices were from the non-food and beverage manufacturing sub-sector such as non-profit organization, construction industry, service sector, retail sector, etc. Consequently, little is known about the status and the effect of green marketing practices on the sustainable manufacturing of Kenya's food and beverage manufacturing sector.

1.1 Objectives
To examine how gender parity can leverage the sustainable manufacturing of Kenya’s food and beverage sector. To analyze how green marketing practices can leverage the sustainable manufacturing of Kenya’s food and beverage sector.

1.2 Research Questions
How does gender parity leverage the sustainable manufacturing of Kenya’s food and beverage sector? 
How does green marketing practices leverage the sustainable manufacturing of Kenya’s food and beverage sector?

1.3 Proposed Methodology
The study will be conducted in Kenya’s food and beverage sector comprising a KAM membership of about 181 clustered as follows: dairy and meat processing firms, grain milling firms, edible fats and oils processing firms, beverages, fruits, and vegetable processing firms, fish processing firms, wines, and beer and spirits firms. Top directors, managers, and employees of these firms will be targeted. The study will employ a mixed methodology research design, using the pragmatic approach. We will conduct a scoping study of the food and beverage manufacturing sector to appraise the state of the sector. We will identify a representative sample of key industry stakeholders for an inception meeting. Alongside this inception meeting, we will conduct key informant interviews concurrently. Thereafter we will design a quantitative study to collect data in line with the research questions. We will develop and validate an online questionnaire and implement it using Kobo Collect Toolbox. The quantitative data will be summarised, and analysed to test statistical significance using multiple regression models. The output of these results will be presented to a panel of stakeholders at a closing meeting to be validated. We expect stakeholder input in shaping the policy directions regarding outcomes of the project. These will be documented in reports for external policy dialogues.

Contact: Prof. Fredrick Aila, Maseno University, Kenya, faila@maseno.ac.ke

Abstract

Textile-based dye-sensitized solar cells (TDSSCs) are potential energy sources for wearable electronics due to the advantageous characteristics of textile materials. Dyes serve as crucial photosensitizers in the efficiency and functionality of these flexible solar cells. Typically, TDSSCs utilize synthetic dyes that are non-biodegradable and often contain hazardous heavy metals. Nonetheless, substituting synthetic dyes with inexpensive, biodegradable natural dyes can yield TDSSCs that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. Moreover, Nigeria possesses a rich diversity of native flora capable of yielding natural dyes with potentially favourable photochemical characteristics. Consequently, this research will explore various indigenous natural dyes to determine those that exhibit extensive absorption spectra for use as effective photosensitizers in TDSSCs.Metal oxide semiconductors such as TiO2 and ZnO serve as photoanodes in TDSSCs, but they face challenges including prolonged dye absorption times, dye complex formation, and significant charge recombination at the electrolyte interface. These issues may be mitigated by incorporating metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) into photoanodes, thereby enhancing properties such as porosity, surface area, electron transport, and intra-framework functionality.This research will integrate various MOF structures into ZnO photoanodes to improve dye loading capacity and minimize charge recombination losses. Additionally, the implementation of polymer-based gel and MOF-based electrolytes will be demonstrated to enhance the long-term stability of TDSSCs. This project aims to significantly advance the development of low-cost, ecofriendly textile-based DSSCs as sustainable energy sources for Wearable electronic applications in sports and health. Additionally, the project seeks to foster collaborative research between Austrian and African scholars while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #7 (Affordable and clean energy), #13 (Climate action), #3 (Good health and well-being), and #4 (Quality education).

Contact: Dr. Ayodele Soge, Redeemer’s University, Department of Physical Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria, sogea@run.edu.ng

Abstract

Simulated DHR curriculum is essential to provide learners with a safe hands-on environment in which to apply evidence-based guidelines while learning DHR skills, but there aren't a DHR curriculum in faculty of nursing, Damanhour University that teach students how to use them optimally. So, in this project a Sim -DHR curriculum will be established using a DHR training platform identical to the hospital’s DHR system. The academic staff members and internship nursing students, as part of their required work in hospitals, will be trained to complete the simulated DHR curriculum. Learners will use, check and correct a simulated medical chart for a complex virtual patient. 

Objectives:
This project aims to
1. Construct Simulated DHR curriculum in nursing education
2. Train nursing students and academic staff how to use simulated DHR

Methods:
60 academic nursing staff educators and 440 internship nursing students will be involved in an educational program. They will be divided into 25 groups. The educational program will include 3 sessions for 3 consecutive days; each session will take a duration of 5 hours. They will be trained to use simulated DHR in computer and simulation (OSCE) labs. Sim-digital health records software system will be composed of patient personal history, patient admission and discharge, patient personal history, patient physical examination, patient system review, patient numerical pain rating, physician physical restraint order and nurse follow up, patient consultation request, discharge summary, vital signs observational record, fluid balance observational record, medication administration record, patient requested lab investigation record, patient intra operative anesthetic record. Skills demonstration and simulation evaluation, feedback surveys from participants, and continuous monitoring of progress are strategies will be used to evaluate performance of participants.

Contact: Intessar Abdelrahman, Critical care and emergency nursing department, faculty of nursing, Damanhour University, abdelrahman.intessar@gmail.com

Abstract

Soil fertility decline is a barrier to agricultural productivity in Africa, where smallholder farming constitutes a significant part of livelihoods. Among essential nutrients, phosphorus (P) deficiency is severe due to the dominance of highly weathered and acidic soils that strongly fix applied P fertilizers. Conventional synthetic inputs are costly, inefficient, and mostly imported. In Ethiopia, large amounts of agro-industrial waste are generated and often discarded, contributing to pollution and the underutilization of valuable resources. This project proposes the development of waste-derived nanofertilizers and coatings for slow-release phosphorus fertilizers for Ethiopian smallholder farmers. This represents technological innovations for improving sustainable farming in Ethiopia through learning from Austria's experience.

Ethiopia-Austria Africa-Uninet consortium will perform laboratory studies on material characterization and nutrient release kinetics combined with field trials on key Ethiopian crops. Agronomic performance will be assessed alongside environmental safety, including potential heavy-metal co-release and soil-microbiome interactions. Participatory engagement with smallholder farmers will guide adoption strategies, ensuring the formulations are both technically effective and socio-economically feasible. By converting waste into valuable fertilizers, this project promotes a circular economy, reduces reliance on costly imports, and enhances local innovation capacity. The results will directly support Ethiopia’s national goals for food security and sustainable agriculture while aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Contact: Dr Menbere Mekonnen, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, menbere.leul@aastu.edu.et

Abstract

Global food production is increasing, yet over one-third is lost postharvest, threatening food security and fuelling climate change. Low-income, food-deficit countries contribute 22% to global food loss, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups, particularly women engaged in perishable produce trade. Inadequate cold chains are a major driver, causing losses of 526 million tons annually and reducing smallholder incomes by 15%. Uganda lags in cold storage capacity; for instance, in 2024, the bulk refrigerated storage capacity was only 4.5 m3/1,000 inhabitants, despite evidence that refrigeration could save 144 million tons globally. This study aims to (1) assess the magnitude, causes, and costs of postharvest losses in perishable value chains in urban Uganda, (2) co-create and test low-input off-grid preservation technologies using local resources, and (3) train and equip vendors to adopt these innovations. Findings will guide policies and investments for food security, resilience, and SDG 12 achievement.

Contact: Dr. Matia Mukama, Department of Food Science & Technology, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, Uganda. Email: mmatia@kyu.ac.ug

Abstract

High-Entropy Alloys (HEAs) epitomize a transformative class of materials that are characterized by their multi-principal element compositions. They offer exceptional mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. This project focuses on the synthesis and comprehensive characterization of a novel HEA system comprising different elements. The strategic combination of these seven elements is expected to yield alloys with superior strength-to-weight ratios, enhanced corrosion resistance, and remarkable thermal stability properties, which are highly desirable for aerospace, energy, and biomedical applications. The research will employ advanced synthesis techniques such as mechanical alloying, spark plasma sintering, and powder metallurgy, followed by rigorous characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and nanoindentation. Corrosion behaviour of the HEAs samples in two different corrosive media will be investigated using a potentiodynamic polarization device to obtain the open circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) data. The tribological behaviour of the developed HEAs will be examined using the Pin-on-Disc apparatus. The project also aims to investigate the microstructural evolution and mechanical behavior under extreme conditions to assess the alloy’s performance and reliability. This project is in proper alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); by fostering advanced materials development for next-generation technologies (SDG 9), through efficient use of elemental resources and sustainable manufacturing practices (SDG 12), and by enabling materials that improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions in industrial applications (SDG 13). Through the advancement of the frontier of HEA research, this project contributes to the global pursuit of sustainable, high-performance materials that support resilient infrastructure and environmentally conscious innovation.

Contact: Dr. Peter P. Ikubanni, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria, peter.ikubanni@bowen.edu.ng

Abstract

Contamination of staple crops like maize, coffee, and sesame with carcinogenic aflatoxins is a major barrier to food security and economic development in Ethiopia. This project will develop a sustainable, enzyme-based detoxification solution by employing biocatalysts from indigenous microorganisms. Our approach integrates enzyme discovery, protein engineering, and process optimization to achieve efficient aflatoxin degradation under real-world post-harvest conditions. We will employ advanced analytical chemistry (HPLC/MS) to monitor efficiency and characterize non-toxic by-products, validated through rigorous toxicological assessments. The ultimate goal is a scalable, market-ready technology tailored to Ethiopia and adaptable across Africa.

Keywords: Aflatoxin; Food Safety; Enzyme Engineering; Biocatalysis; Post-Harvest Technology; Public Health; Ethiopia

Expertise sought from Austrian partners

We seek partners to form a consortium with complementary expertise in:

• Enzyme Engineering & Bioprocess Development: particularly in protein optimization, heterologous expression, formulation, and scale-up.
• Analytical Chemistry (HPLC/MS): For high-resolution quantification of aflatoxins and precise identification of degradation metabolites.
   

Our contribution
The Ethiopian team will lead critical components of this collaborative project, bringing essential expertise and resources. We will conduct the isolation and screening of indigenous microorganisms, perform preliminary enzymatic assays, and manage all field validation trials under real-world storage conditions in Ethiopia. Furthermore, we provide guidance on local agricultural practices, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring the developed technology is practical, adoptable, and sustainable within the Ethiopian context.

Expected impact and sustainability

• Public health: directly reduces exposure to aflatoxins, lowering the incidence of liver cancer and other related health burdens.
• Economic security: enhances the safety, quality, and marketability of key Ethiopian export commodities, boosting trade.
• Sustainability: the use of indigenous resources ensures the solution is affordable, accessible, and locally owned for the long term.
• SDG alignment: contributes directly to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
  
  Contact: Dr. Ebrahim Mama, ebrahim.mama@aastu.edu.et (Addis Ababa Science and Technology University)
   

Contact: Professor Zuriash Mamo  zuriash.mamo@aastu.edu.et (Assistant Professor in Industrial Biotechnology and early-career principal investigator at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU); or Dr. Anegagregn Gashaw Ferede, Ph.D. ganegagregn@gmail.com

Abstract
Ethiopia is home to diverse medicinal plants that play a central role in traditional healthcare. Despite their potential, their wider use in nutraceuticals is limited by the poor bioavailability of active compounds and a lack of sustainable processing strategies. At the same time, the country’s rich microbial diversity from traditional fermented foods and medicinal plants remains largely untapped for biotechnological applications. This project proposes an innovative approach that combines these two resources to develop sustainable nutraceuticals.
The project will investigate the use of beneficial microbes from traditional foods and medicinal plants to ferment key medicinal plants, including Artemisia annua and Moringa oleifera. The enhancement of bioactivity will be rigorously assessed through in-vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial assays, alongside advanced chemical profiling using HPLC and GC-MS to understand metabolite changes. Participatory engagement with local experts and potential producers will guide the development of the protocol, ensuring the resulting nutraceutical precursors are both scientifically validated and socio-economically viable.  

By establishing a bio-enhancement protocol, the project aims to increase the therapeutic and commercial value of Ethiopian medicinal plants, promote local nutraceutical development, and reduce dependency on imported supplements. Austrian expertise in fermentation biotechnology and advanced analytics complements Ethiopia’s biodiversity and microbial resources, creating a mutually beneficial collaboration. The outcomes will support Ethiopia’s bioeconomy and directly contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals on health and innovation.

Contact: Dr. Ebrahim Mama, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia, ebrahim.mama@aastu.edu.et