The African Union Commission (AUC), with support from the World Bank, has launched a groundbreaking $50 million initiative aimed at transforming how policy research is generated and applied across Africa. The Africa Think Tank Platform (ATTP) will provide grant funding of up to $10 million per regional consortium, empowering African institutions to collaboratively conduct research on urgent development challenges such as climate change, food security, trade integration, governance, and digital transformation.
Announced at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, the initiative seeks to reposition African think tanks at the centre of policy influence, shifting away from reliance on external consultants.
“This is not just a program—it’s a continental reawakening around policy ownership and intellectual sovereignty,” said Selma Malika Haddadi, AUC Deputy Chairperson.
Each funded consortium will consist of three to five African research institutions, enabling cross-border collaboration on complex, multi-country issues. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with AUDA-NEPAD and the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), and is the most significant investment in African policy research since a similar World Bank program ended in 2017.
“This goes beyond support—it empowers African think tanks to lead, not just advise,” said Abdrahmane Dicko, Director of Programs at ACBF.
The research will align with Agenda 2063 and inform both national policies and regional frameworks. The Call for Proposals is now open, with a submission deadline of September 24, 2025. Award announcements are expected in November, with disbursements starting December 19. Selected consortia will have 2.5 years to implement their programs.
With a focus on African-led collaboration, the ATTP aims to build a lasting platform that enhances research excellence, fosters inter-institutional cooperation, and strengthens the continent’s voice in global policy discourse.
Article by RB Correspondent
Photo/Google
Comment