The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) is the apex continental organization responsible for coordinating and advocating for agricultural research for development across Africa.

FARA serves as the technical arm of the African Union Commission on agricultural science, technology, and innovation. It works to strengthen Africa’s agricultural research systems and promote the use of science, technology, and innovation to improve food security, agricultural productivity, and sustainable development.

Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, FARA connects governments, research institutions, development partners, and private sector stakeholders to advance agricultural transformation across the continent.

FARA was established in 1997 by sub-regional agricultural research organizations and partners to provide a unified platform for coordinating agricultural research across Africa.

Its formation was driven by the need to harmonize fragmented research efforts and ensure that agricultural innovation contributes meaningfully to poverty reduction, food security, and rural development.

Vision

An Africa where agriculture is transformed through science, technology, and innovation to ensure food and nutrition security and improved livelihoods for all.

Mission

To strengthen and coordinate agricultural research systems in Africa through partnerships, innovation, and capacity development that drive sustainable agricultural transformation.

Core Mandate

FARA’s core mandate includes:

• Coordinating agricultural research for development across Africa
• Strengthening national and regional agricultural research systems
• Promoting innovation in agriculture through science and technology
• Facilitating partnerships among research, policy, and development actors
• Supporting evidence-based policy formulation and implementation

Strategic Focus Areas

• Agricultural innovation systems development
• Knowledge sharing and information management
• Capacity building and institutional strengthening
• Climate-smart agriculture and resilience
• Agricultural policy support and advisory services
• Food systems transformation

Key Programs & Initiatives

• DONATA – Dissemination of New Agricultural Technologies in Africa
• PAEPARD – Agricultural Research Partnership Platform
• RAILS – Regional Agricultural Information and Learning Systems
• Sub-Saharan Africa Challenge Program
• UniBRAIN – University–Business–Research Innovation Initiative
• Soil Initiative for Africa (SIA)
• Agricultural science, technology, and innovation policy frameworks

Career & Employment Opportunities

FARA provides opportunities in the following areas:

• Agricultural Research & Development
• Project Management
• Policy Analysis & Advocacy
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL)
• Data Systems & ICT for Agriculture
• Finance & Administration
• Communications & Knowledge Management

Available job vacancies at Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) are published on GhanaCareers.com. Job seekers are encouraged to check back regularly for new openings.

Company Information

• Industry: Agricultural Research / Development / Policy / Science & Innovation
• Organization Type: Continental Agricultural Research Coordination Body
• Headquarters: No. 7 Flower Avenue, New Achimota Mile 7, Accra, Ghana
• Founded: 1997
• Affiliation: African Union Commission (Technical Arm on Agriculture Science & Innovation)
• Email: info@faraafrica.org
• Phone: +233 302 744 888
• Website: https://faraafrica.org/
• Coverage: Africa (Continental Operations