AESEDA-Led Team Awarded Seed Grant to Study Climate-Resilient Oil Nut Crops in Kenya

In a significant stride towards fostering sustainable agricultural practices and addressing climate challenges, an interdisciplinary team led by AESEDA (Alliance for Education, Science, Engineering and Design with Africa) has been awarded a seed grant by the Social Science Research Institute (SSRI). The grant aims to explore the potential of climate-resilient oil nut crops in Kenya, with a particular focus on cashew nuts in the coastal region.

The accomplished research team is comprised of Drs. Mare Sarr, Ida Djenontin, Edouard Mensah, Mumbi Kimani of Penn State, and Dr. Simon Wagura, Director of the Nairobi-based Strathmore Business School Agri-Food Innovation Hub. Their diverse expertise in fields such as international affairs, agriculture, geography and economics promises a holistic and robust approach to addressing the challenges in the cashew nuts value chain.

The study’s initial phase concentrates on establishing fruitful partnerships with Kenyan-based research organizations and private sector stakeholders, including farmers, traders, and processors. By collaborating with these key actors along the cashew nuts value chain, the team aims to comprehensively map out the main bottlenecks hindering the crop’s growth and potential in Kenya’s coastal region.

The project’s ultimate goal is to promote climate-resilient oil nut crops that can thrive in the face of environmental adversities. By identifying and addressing the obstacles within the cashew nuts value chain, the team endeavors to enhance agricultural productivity and uplift the livelihoods of the local communities dependent on this industry.

The Social Science Research Institute’s decision to award the seed grant to this esteemed team reflects their confidence in their expertise and commitment to research excellence. Through this funding, the team will have the resources and support needed to conduct exploratory research, collaborate with stakeholders, and devise sustainable solutions that can significantly impact Kenya’s agricultural landscape.

We congratulate the AESEDA-led team on receiving this well-deserved seed grant and commend their dedication to advancing knowledge, fostering resilience, and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture. As the team embarks on this important journey, we look forward to witnessing the positive outcomes and lasting benefits that their research and efforts will bring to Kenya’s coastal region and beyond.