On 25 November 2015, the Agricultural Research Symposium took place in Nairobi, Kenya. The symposium was co-hosted by AAUN, the Australia Awards, the University of Nairobi and the University of Sydney. The Symposium formed part of the Australia Awards Africa Short Course “Increasing the Development Impact of Agricultural Research” (IDIAR).

Drying of indigenous vegetables for improved food and nutrition security was one of several innovative projects to arise out of the Joint AAUN Australia Awards Agricultural Research Symposium held on 25 November 2015 at the Southern Sun Mayfair Hotel in Nairobi Kenya.  Seventy-one agricultural researchers, extensionists and academics met in Nairobi Kenya for the Symposium, which brought together researchers from both continents.

The Symposium was opened by the Australian High Commissioner to Kenya, HE John Feakes and Prof Charles M. Mulei, who was speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi. Mr Feakes said that Agriculture and Food Security have been a focus of Australia’s engagement in Africa for many years. “This priority is in keeping with our focus on supporting economic growth and trade links to Africa. Further, given the particular role that women play in the agricultural sector, this also supports our efforts to increase gender equality and women’s economic empowerment” he said.

After the opening speeches, three panels of AAUN researchers presented on their research projects. The Symposium was a part of the Australia Awards Africa Short Course “Increasing the Development Impact of Agricultural Research” (IDIAR), funded by the Australian Government and delivered by the University of Sydney, in conjunction with lead partner the University of Nairobi.  A highlight of the day was the 24 Awardee ‘lightening’ presentations with each person given one slide and one minute to present their research ideas.  This gave rise to four working groups developing collaborative research proposals among AAUN partner universities.

Presentations:

– Professor Mavis Mulaudzi – AAUN Public Health Presentation

– Associate Professor Mu Li – Making the connection- Agricultural, Nutrition and Health

– Associate Professor Robyn Alders – Nutrition security: a vital element of food security and sustainable development

– Dr Casper Madakadze & Dr George Abong – AAUN Post-harvest Group Presentation

– Associate Professor Robyn McConchie –  Cropping Interventions for Better Nutrition and Food Security in Central Tanzania

– Dr Peter Johnston – What is Agro Biodiversity?

– Prof Ngugi Robinson Kinuthia – Agro-Biodiversity: Kenya Situation

Event Highlights: