GHANA – The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) has appointed Dr. Aggrey Agumya as its next Executive Director, making him the third leader to take on this prestigious role.

The appointment comes as the African continent stands at the precipice of transformative advancements in agriculture, science, technology, and innovation.

With its headquarters nestled in the heart of Ghana, FARA is the foremost continental organization driving agricultural research for development, acting as the technical branch of the African Union Commission (AUC) on matters related to agriculture.

This dynamic institution is renowned for its efforts in fostering sustainability and innovation across Africa’s agricultural landscape.

A Ugandan national, Dr. Agumya brings an illustrious academic background and a wealth of experience to his new role. An alumnus of the prestigious University of Melbourne, he holds a doctorate degree in Geo-Information Sciences, a field that promises to play a pivotal role in Africa’s agricultural revolution.

“I sincerely appreciate the support of stakeholders and partners, and look forward to continued cooperation in harnessing science, technology, and innovation for Africa to sustainably feed itself,” expressed Dr. Aggrey with unwavering enthusiasm.

Dr. Agumya’s journey with FARA spans an impressive 17 years, commencing with his tenure as a Programme Officer of the sub-Saharan Africa Challenge Programme (SSA-CP). Over the years, he has earned accolades for his pivotal contributions, demonstrating his passion and commitment to the organization’s mission.

Man of many hats

In 2020, Dr. Agumya assumed the position of Director of Research and Innovation, where he emerged as the de facto Deputy Executive Director.

His extensive experience and intimate understanding of the context, configurations, and corporate philosophy of FARA, coupled with his rich partnerships across Africa’s agricultural research and innovation institutions, make him the ideal candidate to lead FARA into its next chapter.

FARA’s journey has been studded with significant achievements, many of which bear Dr. Agumya’s indelible mark. His previous roles as Technical Advisor to the two Executive Directors provided him with an insider’s perspective on the organization’s workings and aspirations.

He takes over from Dr. Yemi Akinbamijo who concluded his meritorious two-term tenure this month.

With Africa on the brink of a transformative agricultural renaissance, Dr. Agumya’s appointment signals a bright future for FARA.

His vision for the institution revolves around leveraging cutting-edge technologies, fostering collaborations, and empowering the scientific community to pave the way for sustainable food production and economic growth across the continent.

Under Dr. Agumya’s guidance, FARA is set to fortify its position as the vanguard of agricultural research in Africa. His leadership promises to usher in an era of innovation, research-driven solutions, and strategic partnerships that will uplift farmers and communities, driving Africa closer to food self-sufficiency.

As the continent collectively sets its sights on the horizon of progress, Dr. Aggrey Agumya’s journey at FARA, as expressed by the organization, promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

The world awaits with bated breath to witness the impact of this new visionary leader in steering Africa towards a more prosperous, sustainable, and hunger-free future.

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