In a landmark move to elevate scientific collaboration and innovation between continents, the European Union has unveiled Africa Initiative III, the third flagship programme under its Horizon Europe research framework. The initiative commits over €500 million to strengthening co-created research and innovation (R&I) partnerships between Africa and Europe.
Announced within the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025, Africa Initiative III is set to accelerate Africa’s role in global science leadership, moving beyond traditional donor-driven models. For the first time, African institutions are expected not only to contribute but to lead research consortia, shape agendas, and implement solutions with continental and global relevance.
“This initiative is about co-ownership, not just collaboration,” said a senior official at the European Commission. “Africa Initiative III will amplify African voices in global science and prioritize joint solutions rooted in equity and impact.”
Building on the success of Africa Initiatives I & II, which awarded over €128 million to African partners and mobilised hundreds of institutions across the continent, the new phase marks a strategic deepening of Europe-Africa scientific ties.
The programme is structured around four thematic pillars, with dedicated funding:
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Public Health (€50 million): Boosting epidemic preparedness, health system resilience, and equitable access to health innovations.
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Green Transition (€241 million): Advancing climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity, renewable energy, and sustainable water systems.
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Innovation & Technology (€186.5 million): Supporting inclusive digital growth, AI applications, fintech, mobility, and data governance.
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Capacities for Science (€3.5 million): Strengthening African institutional research infrastructure, mobility of scholars, and science-policy dialogue.
An additional €19.5 million will support cross-cutting themes, including gender equity, youth empowerment, and ethical governance of research.
Aligned with the African Union’s Decade of Education Transformation and Youth Innovation (2025–2034), the initiative seeks to foster a generation of African-led innovators while supporting the continent’s transition toward a knowledge-driven economy.
More than a funding mechanism, Africa Initiative III is being touted as a tool for scientific diplomacy and geopolitical resilience, designed to strengthen Africa’s position in the global innovation ecosystem.
African and European universities, NGOs, startups, public agencies, and research institutions are encouraged to participate. Application details and eligibility criteria are now available on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
This strategic rollout signals a new era where African scientific excellence is not only acknowledged but positioned to lead solutions for shared global challenges—from climate and health to inclusive digital futures.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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