African Food Research Accelerator Programme (AFRAP)

Deadline:30Th June 2026

The African Food Research Accelerator Programme (AFRAP) is a six-month structured fellowship designed by the Centre for African Food Research and Innovation (CAFRI). It equips early-career food scientists with the practical skills needed to design, execute, and publish original research.

Fellows receive hands-on mentorship, attend workshops on research methodology and data analysis, and work toward a publishable manuscript as their primary deliverable. The program is fully virtual, free to participate in, and open to applicants from every African country.

Program Pillars

• Research Design – Learn to frame strong research questions, define objectives, choose methodologies, and write a proposal that stands up to scrutiny.
• Literature Mastery – Conduct comprehensive literature reviews, identify gaps in existing research, and position your study within the broader field.
• Data & Analysis – Get trained in data collection tools, quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques, and research documentation best practices.
• Manuscript Writing – Structure a scientific paper, learn the publishing landscape, and submit your work for peer review with mentor support.

Benefits 

• Research methodology & design skills
• Expert mentorship & peer community
• Publication-ready manuscript

Eligibility

• African Origin – You are a citizen or resident of any African country.
• Academic Stage – Final-year undergraduate, master’s student, or early-career professional in a food-related discipline.
• Food Research Interest – You have genuine curiosity about food science, safety, nutrition, or food systems research.
• Full Commitment – You can dedicate 4–6 hours per week for six months and actively engage with your mentor and cohort.
• Computer & Internet Access – You have access to a desktop computer or laptop and reliable broadband internet for the duration of the programme.

For more information and application.