Creation of research linkages in Africa by regional bodies
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Date
2012-09Author
Gitao, C G
Akundabweni, L S M
Type
ArticleLanguage
enMetadata
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Agriculture is the mainstay of most African countries and research in the sector is one of the key ways
to make it more efficient and thus beneficial to the rural communities. Establishment of research
linkages is key to enhancing efficiency. A case study of two research projects supported by RUFORUM
was undertaken to analyze the development of these linkages. The first case was for a research project
based in Vihiga Kenya and Jinja in Uganda. The design of the project allowed the MSc students from
the respective country to visit, use public transport, undertake research, learn and exchange views with
communities in the alternate country. This enriched the experience for all stakeholders especially
because the students were both male and female. Undoubtedly, there were higher costs due to travel but
the experience achieved a network output that was beyond the initial expectation. The second case
study involved an investigation of PPR a goat disease that has devastated East African countries. The
research was carried out in both Tanzania and Kenya. Due to challenges of distance, remoteness and the
fact that Simon was pursuing a PhD course, in addition to RUFORUM, leverage funding and support
was obtained from an NGO-Vetworks EA; training skills for participatory research were obtained from
ILRI; Veterinary Government officials were trained by funds from FAO and PCR tests were
performed in the government Vet laboratory with assistance of IAEA. In Tanzania, Mtwara Vet labs
assisted with the PCR diagnosis. In Tanzania, PPR vaccination was commenced by the Government
due to the irrevocable proof by Alex that PPR was the cause of deaths in goats. The two PIs Gitao and
Karimuribo later wrote another proposal to EAPP on dairy in East Africa which was funded. Research
networks can therefore create synergy within the network and achieve more than expected. Research
networks can grow and include other stakeholders which enhance sustainability and impact. They can
also achieve a life of their own and establish a knowledge network
Citation
The 3rd RUFORUM Biennial Conference, 24th – 28th September 2012 EntebbePublisher
Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology & Parasitology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi