Institutionalisation of Evidence Use in Decision Making in Africa

In our relentless pursuit to enhance evidence-informed decision making (EIDM) in Africa through our innovative approach known as Utafiti Sera (Swahili word for Research policy), that addresses gaps in evidence use through instituting communities of practice as a vehicle for enhancing evidence generation and uptake across the continent. To show case this approach, PASGR embarked on an eventful journey throughout September.

Here are some major highlights:

From the 13^th -15^th September, 2023, PASGR played a pivotal role in the Africa Evidence Network forum in Uganda. This high-level EIDM stakeholder engagement convened visionaries from across 53 countries in Africa. The event fostered a conducive environment for learning, sharing, and forging valuable connections. Our own Jim Kaketch took the stage in a thought-provoking Panel Discussion on African approaches to fostering connections and collaborations, illuminating African strategies for cultivating robust connections and collaborations within the evidence Ecosystem. In the EIDM Incubator, a session pulsating with innovation, Kaketch showcased PASGR’s innovative approach (Utafiti Sera), for influencing policy, practice, and decision-making through evidence in Africa. The approach is built around the concept of ‘house’ that denotes the platform/forum/vehicle or space where both research and policy communities come together to discuss, access, and appraise evidence with aim of addressing specific national policy questions.

The launch of the Africa Evidence Youth League was another hallmark. This initiative provided a platform for young emerging leaders, to exchange ideas, form enduring connections, and engage in mentorship and capacity-building activities. The AEYL’s maiden focus on education is poised to assemble budding education leaders from every corner of the continent, fostering a dynamic community of practice and an in-depth EIDM mentoring program. The AEYL envisions a more effective and equitable practice of EIDM in Africa, arming the next generation of leaders with the inspiration, networks, and support needed to innovate and champion EIDM in the continent.

From the 17th to the 21st of September, PASGR contributed to the curriculum review for the University of Nairobi’s Department of Economics and Development Studies. As a key stakeholder in African higher education, our insights and experiences were invaluable in enhancing the draft. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders culminated in an impressive revised curriculum, a testament to the power of collective expertise.

On September 20th, PASGR was privileged to partake in the commemoration of the DAAD regional office for Africa’s 50th anniversary of German-East African Science and Research Cooperation, held at the University of Nairobi. Two dedicated PASGR representatives were in attendance, and our esteemed Board Member, Professor Karuti Kanyinga, skillfully moderated a panel discussion centered on the Perspectives for Eastern-African-German relations. The enduring collaboration with DAAD has yielded significant results, with recent milestones including the awarding of 11 scholarships for Master of Research and Public Policy students spread across three universities within our network. This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to nurturing the next generation of adept researchers and policy leaders in Africa. In each endeavor, PASGR reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing EIDM ecosystem, fostering collaborations, connections, and shaping a future where African social science stands at the forefront of global policy discourse. The journey continues, and we can’t wait to see what lies ahead!