In an era where global food security is increasingly under threat, innovative partnerships between regions are crucial for sustainable solutions. The INCiTiS-FOOD project is leading the way in promoting collaboration between European and African expertise to revolutionise urban food systems. Recently, the project has been showcased at two major events: the Nigeria-EU Innovation Days and the Cooperation Lounge Africa – Bavaria: Rethinking Collaboration in Research & Innovation. At these events, INCiTiS-FOOD partners emphasised not only the project’s successes but also the broader implications for international collaboration in research and innovation.
Why do you think it is important to highlight the achievements of the INCiTiS-FOOD Project at events like Nigeria-EU Innovation Days and Cooperation Lounge Africa – Bavaria: Rethinking Collaboration in Research & Innovation where the EU-AU cooperation is the topic?
Prof. Oyebola: The INCiTiS-FOOD project represents a highly innovative approach to rethinking urban food systems. As food insecurity continues to impact the world, especially in Africa, showcasing the achievements of this project can motivate wider adoption of these innovations.
Dr. Benjamin: It is crucial to emphasize the achievements of the INCiTiS-FOOD Project at the EU Innovation Days and Cooperation Lounge Africa – Bavaria, as they demonstrate the success of a new approach centered on African ownership, co-design, and co-creation of local agricultural technological solutions. This is because this approach will be instrumental in achieving food and nutritional security, empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
Why are EU-AU partnerships important for the sustainable development of food production? How is this reflected in the INCiTiS-FOOD project?
Prof. Oyebola: The EU-AU partnership represents a mix of cultural and technological diversity, driving inclusivity in sustainable food production. In the face of global challenges like climate change and pandemics, which adversely affect food production, a holistic approach to sustainability is essential. This involves leveraging the expertise of both the highly industrialized European countries and the less industrialized African nations.
The INCiTiS-FOOD project exemplifies this approach, bringing together over twenty consortium members from EU and AU countries, each contributing their unique expertise. This partnership aims to bridge knowledge and technological gaps, fostering a united effort to combat global hunger. Through this collaboration, the project has facilitated the cross-pollination of ideas, networking, co-creation, and teamwork, all geared toward achieving its objectives.
Dr. Benjamin: EU-AU partnerships are essential for the sustainable development of food production, as they facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building, enabling the exchange of valuable lessons. Motivated by the need for sustainable food sufficiency in African (peri-)urban areas, the INCiTiS-FOOD project exemplifies this collaboration. Through these EU-AU partnerships, the project is implementing capacity-building initiatives in local agricultural technological solutions for food security and developing policy instruments to support these efforts.
What is your vision for the long-term impact of the EU-AU cooperation in the INCiTiS-FOOD project, and how will it scale in African communities?
Prof. Oyebola: The EU-AU cooperation within the INCiTiS-FOOD project is envisioned to have a long-term impact on both regions. Despite the consortium’s diverse composition, its members are united in their mission. This synergy has already led to several additional memoranda of association and joint projects, a trend expected to continue as the project evolves and beyond.
Given the project’s relevance to addressing Africa’s food crisis, its climate-smart innovations, and its broad dissemination of information, the impact is anticipated to grow. The ongoing campaigns for utilisation and training at the eight selected living labs in Ibadan and Lagos (Nigeria), Tamale (Ghana), Njala (Sierra Leone), Nakuru and Egerton (Kenya), Bamenda (Cameroon), and Franceville (Gabon), alongside high levels of community engagement and positive responses from government agencies, all contribute to a promising future. The scale of the INCiTiS-FOOD project’s impact is likely to expand significantly within African communities over the long term.
Dr. Benjamin: I envision the long-term impact of the EU-AU cooperation within the INCiTiS-FOOD project leading to enhanced food security, economic growth, and stronger food policy frameworks in both regions. Additionally, it will foster increased innovation and research activities. Over time, the scale of INCiTiS-FOOD in African communities will be immense, driven by the enthusiasm and interest of relevant actors and the recognisable impact of the project.
What has been the most rewarding part of working on this project? What advice would you give to organisations looking to build similar cross-continental partnerships in the food sector?
Prof. Oyebola: The most rewarding aspect of working on this project has been the knowledge sharing, networking, and exposition. This experience has enhanced positive views and participation in international collaboration and sustainable development.
Organisations or initiatives aiming to foster similar cross-continental partnerships in the food sector are on the rightful and highly rewarding path. I encourage them to pursue this noble goal with passion, regardless of potential failures in application or disappointment from colleagues.
Dr. Benjamin: The most rewarding aspect of working on the INCiTiS-FOOD project is witnessing the development and implementation of diverse local agricultural technological prototypes and the cross-learning between partners. My experience with the INCiTiS-FOOD project has positively influenced my perspective on international collaboration and the sustainable development of farming in (peri-) urban areas.
My advice to other organisations or initiatives aiming to foster similar cross-continental partnerships in the food sector is to thoroughly vet partners and ensure they have a genuine passion for the subject matter. This involves conducting detailed background checks, assessing their track record in related projects, and evaluating their commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. It’s crucial to engage with partners who share your vision and are dedicated to achieving common goals. Additionally, fostering open communication and building strong, trusting relationships will enhance collaboration and increase the likelihood of project success. Ensuring alignment in values and objectives from the outset will help create a cohesive and motivated team, driving impactful and sustainable outcomes in the food sector.
Conclusion
The INCiTiS-FOOD project serves as a powerful example of how international collaboration can drive meaningful advancements in food security and sustainability. The insights shared by Prof. Oyediran Olusegun Oyebola and Dr. Emmanuel Benjamin highlight not only the project’s achievements but also its broader implications for global partnerships in research and innovation. The lessons learned from the INCiTiS-FOOD project can inspire other organisations and initiatives aiming to address global challenges through similar cross-continental partnerships. By prioritising genuine collaboration, open communication, and shared goals, these initiatives can also drive impactful and sustainable outcomes in the food sector.
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