The Eastern Africa Research and Innovation Management Association has announced a call for abstracts ahead of its 8th International Conference, set to take place in Kigali, Rwanda from 26–28 August 2026.
The conference will convene researchers, policymakers, innovation managers, and industry stakeholders from across Eastern Africa and beyond to examine how research and innovation can better drive socio-economic transformation on the continent. This year’s theme, “Advancing Research and Innovation for African Socio-economic Transformation,” reflects growing urgency to align scientific output with development priorities. Six sub-themes for the conference are:
1. Strengthening Research and Innovation in Bio-manufacturing
2. Up-checking Research and Innovation in the Era of AI
3. Advancing Technology Transfer for Industrial Development 4.
Upgrading the Role of Research and Innovation in the Humanities
5. Managing Research and Innovation Grants
6. Amplifying Research and Innovation Ethics
In a notable milestone for the association, the Kigali meeting will also mark the establishment of the Rwanda EARIMA Chapter, expanding the organization’s footprint within its regional network, which includes Burundi, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda.
The three-day conference is expected to serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and policy dialogue, with a strong focus on practical approaches to strengthening research and innovation systems. Discussions will span a range of thematic areas, including bio-manufacturing, artificial intelligence, technology transfer, humanities research, grant management, and research ethics.
By opening the call for abstracts, EARIMA is inviting contributions that address both the technical and institutional dimensions of research and innovation. Submissions are expected to engage with the conference sub-themes while offering practical insights, case studies, or policy perspectives that can inform implementation across the region.
The deadline for abstract submissions has been set for 30 June 2026, with opportunities also available for stakeholders to propose special sessions and panel discussions.
Photo courtesy / EARIMA
Article by Jed Mwangi
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