Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – October 31, 2025 — African scientists and policy leaders are calling for a transformative shift toward homegrown research ecosystems, emphasizing that the integration of indigenous knowledge with modern science is essential to unlocking sustainable agricultural innovation, food security, and economic resilience across the continent.

Speaking at the China-Africa Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Alliance Conference held in Addis Ababa from October 26–29, experts underscored the strategic value of Africa’s traditional farming wisdom and the urgent need to strengthen regional research institutions.

Bolaji Zuluqurineen Salihu of Nigeria’s National Cereals Research Institute highlighted the persistent challenge of brain drain, noting that many young African scientists seek advanced training in countries like Switzerland and China. While international exposure can enhance individual careers, Salihu stressed that Africa must invest in its own institutions to retain talent, drive innovation, and develop technologies tailored to local needs.

He called for greater continental unity in agricultural development, pointing to Africa’s rich diversity of genetic resources and germplasm as critical assets for collaborative research. “Nobody can progress alone,” he added. “As the African proverb says, we must move forward together.”

Professor Nigussie Dechasa, Director General of the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), echoed this sentiment, noting that Ethiopian farmers have long served as custodians of indigenous agricultural knowledge. He emphasized that traditional practices have historically helped communities adapt to threats such as climate change, pest outbreaks, and soil degradation.

Professor Banyankimbona, Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation at the African Union Commission, reinforced the importance of locally grounded solutions. He urged African nations to draw on traditional practices while engaging global innovations to foster development that aligns with community needs.

As Africa faces mounting climate and food system pressures, the conference served as a rallying point for researchers, policymakers, and institutions to reimagine agricultural innovation through the lens of indigenous knowledge, regional collaboration, and scientific sovereignty.