A major new initiative led by Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research is empowering more than 100 African women scientists to lead climate action in agriculture, strengthening resilience across the continent’s food systems.

The program, funded through the Africa-Australia Partnership for Climate Responsive Agriculture, aims to extend its impact beyond research institutions and into the daily realities of smallholder farmers.

Advancing Women’s Leadership in Agriculture

The Women in Agriculture Leadership Program, implemented by African Women in Agricultural Research and Development, will support two cohorts of female researchers from Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.

Backed by an investment of A$3.8 million, the initiative is designed to reshape how agricultural research is developed, communicated, and applied in climate-stressed environments.

Building Skills for Climate Action

Participants will undergo a structured, multi-year program combining leadership training, mentorship, and technical development. Key focus areas include:

• Climate change adaptation
• Gender integration in agriculture
• Science communication
• Proposal writing and leadership development

The program also incorporates storytelling training to help researchers effectively communicate their work to policymakers, investors, and farming communities.

A Strong Mentorship Model

Mentorship forms the foundation of the initiative. Each participant is paired with a senior expert while also mentoring an early-career researcher, creating a three-tier knowledge-sharing system.

Across two cohorts, the program is expected to directly and indirectly benefit more than 300 professionals, strengthening capacity across Africa’s agricultural research landscape.

Driving Systemic Change in Agriculture

The fellowship comes at a critical time, as climate-related shocks continue to impact food systems across Africa. Despite playing a central role in agriculture, women remain underrepresented in decision-making processes that shape research priorities and funding.

By equipping women scientists with leadership skills and influence, the program aims to ensure that agricultural solutions are more inclusive, practical, and aligned with the realities faced by farmers.

Strengthening Institutions and Collaboration

Beyond individual development, the initiative targets broader institutional impact by engaging national agricultural research organisations. Training for senior leaders and policy-focused workshops will support better integration of gender considerations into agrifood systems.

The program will also foster collaboration between African researchers and Australian scientists, promoting knowledge exchange and innovation.