|
|
01/2026
Welcome to our first Bavaria-Africa Bulletin in 2026.
At the Scientific Coordination Office Bavaria-Africa (WKS Bavaria-Africa), which is part of the Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR),
our mission is to foster and deepen collaboration between stakeholders
in Bavaria and Africa within research and innovation. We are dedicated
to offering comprehensive support in identifying suitable funding
opportunities and preparing project proposals for European and
(inter)national funding programmes that encourage the involvement of
Bavarian, European, and African stakeholders in the research and
innovation ecosystem.
In this edition of the
Bavaria-Africa Bulletin, we highlight a curated selection of
open calls, upcoming events, and recent activities of the WKS
Bavaria-Africa team and the Bavarian Office for Africa. As a
special feature, we also introduce the “Bavaria meets Africa” project,
implemented by UnternehmerTUM.
Stay inspired, explore new opportunities, and enjoy reading!
If
you have any suggestions or questions, please do not hesitate to
contact us. We encourage you to share our newsletter with your network.
Interested persons can subscribe to our Bavaria-Africa Bulletin here.
Sincerely,
Your team of the Scientific Coordination Office Bavaria-Africa
|
|
If this message is not displayed correctly, please click here. |
|
EIC 2026 Pathfinder Open EIC
Pathfinder supports bold, high‑risk ideas that can spark breakthrough
technologies across Europe and associated countries. Teams from EU
Member States and associated African countries such as Egypt, Morocco
and Tunisia can join ambitious deep‑tech projects exploring radically
new scientific directions. Deadline: 12/05/2026 Read more |
EIC 2026 Pathfinder Challenge
EIC
Pathfinder Challenges 2026 are
top-town calls to fund visionary teams developing
breakthrough deep‑tech solutions in three predefined thematic
areas: Advanced Materials for Miniaturised Energy
Harvesting Systems, Biotechnology for Healthy Ageing
and DeepRAP – Deep Reasoning, Abstraction & Planning
towards trustworthy Cognitive AI Systems. Deadline: 28/10/2026 Read more |
|
|
Training
and innovation networks for sustained capacity development related to
ethics, regulatory, pharmacovigi-lance,and related digital regulatory
platformsHORIZON-JU-GH-EDCTP3-2026-03-SERP-01 The
Global Health EDCTP Work Programme 2026 still offers two open funding
opportunities. This Coordination and Support Actions
(CSA) focus on training and networks to contribute to
establishing a resilient and future-ready ethics, regulatory and PV
environment in Sub-Saharan Africa. Deadline: 02/09/2026 Read more |
Enhancing integrated research and healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa through digital innovation and Artificial Intelligence HORIZON-JU-GH-EDCTP3-2026-03-DIGIT-02 The
second CSA call under the Global Health EDCTP promotes
digital innovation and AI to better integrate research and healthcare in
sub-Saharan Africa, boosting talent retention, scaling proven
solutions, and enabling coordinated, resilient health systems. Deadline: 02/09/2026 Read more |
|
|
Creative alliances: Fostering global partnerships in cultural policies and CCI innovation
HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-HERITAGE-05
This
call topic supports global creative alliances advancing
cultural policy innovation and creative industry collaboration. It
targets two focus areas: CCI innovation beyond borders and international
cultural relations for global resilience.
Deadline: 23/09/2026
Read more
|
Understanding the forms of local democracy in low-income and low-middle income countries
HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-DEMOCRACY-02 This
call topic strengthens understanding of local democracy in
low- and lower‑middle‑income countries. It supports science‑based tools,
good practices, and insights into decentralisation to promote human
rights, reduce inequalities, and reinforce democratic engagement. Deadline: 23/09/2026 Read more |
|
|
Supporting post-conflict democracy and reconstruction
HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-DEMOCRACY-07
This
call topic supports post-conflict democracy and sustainable
reconstruction. It advances evidence-based strategies for peacebuilding,
strengthens local civil society, and promotes inclusive reintegration,
accountability, and resilient democratic recovery.
Deadline: 23/09/2026
Read more
|
Scientific analysis and exploitation of space data
HORIZON-CL4-2026-SPACE-03-61 This
call supports projects that unlock new scientific discoveries through
advanced analysis of European space mission data. It aims to boost
high‑quality publications, strengthen international research
collaboration, and drive European excellence in cutting‑edge space
science and exploration. Deadline: 03/09/2026 Read more |
|
|
Targeted
innovative capabilities for the resilience of critical entities to
natural and human-induced disasters, including hybrid scenarios
HORIZON-CL3-2026-01-INFRA-03
This
call topic boosts innovative capabilities to strengthen the
resilience of critical entities against natural, human‑made and hybrid
disasters. It advances risk understanding, enhances multi‑hazard
preparedness, and supports coordinated response and recovery across
sectors and borders. Deadline: 05/11/2026 Read more |
Leveraging
long-term field experiments and other datasets to develop AI-ready
decision support systems for sustainable soil management
HORIZON-MISS-2026-05-SOIL-04 This
call topic targets AI-ready decision support systems for
sustainable soil management by integrating long-term field data across
Europe and associated countries. It strengthens harmonised soil data,
boosts AI-driven insights, and encourages strong involvement of African
organisations. Deadline: 23/09/2026 Read more |
|
|
Understanding and tackling the decline of insects
HORIZON-CL6-2026-01-BIODIV-01
This
call topic supports international research that deepens
understanding of insect populations and the drivers behind their
decline. By generating knowledge for policymakers,
land managers and society, it aims to highlight the ecological
and socioeconomic value of insects and to equip stakeholders
with the tools needed to protect these vital contributors to healthy
ecosystems and climate action. Deadline: 17/09/2026 Read more |
Developing methods to assess the presence, functions and sensitivity of groundwater ecosystems
HORIZON-CL6-2026-01-BIODIV-02 This
call topic aims to advance innovative methods to assess
groundwater ecosystems, strengthening evidence for EU water policy and
biodiversity protection. It highlights the importance of involving
Mediterranean countries to address pollution risks and safeguard vital
groundwater resources. Deadline: 17/09/2026 Read more |
|
|
Pushing the frontier of knowledge and conservation action for deep sea ecosystems
HORIZON-CL6-2026-01-BIODIV-03
This
call topic supports research that expands knowledge of
deep‑sea biodiversity and ecosystem functioning to guide global
conservation efforts. By improving species inventories,
mapping habitats and assessing climate and human impacts, it
helps authorities prioritise protection, strengthen marine governance
and advance science‑based management of vulnerable deep‑sea
regions. Deadline: 17/09/2026 Read more |
Ensuring
continuous effectiveness of protected areas in conserving habitats and
species while facing intensifying drivers of biodiversity loss
HORIZON-CL6-2026-01-BIODIV-04 This
funding opportunity supports research that strengthens the long‑term
resilience of protected areas by analysing future biodiversity pressures
and developing innovative, adaptive management approaches. It equips
authorities with tools to safeguard habitats across land, freshwater and
marine ecosystems, with international cooperation strongly
encouraged. Deadline: 17/09/2026 Read more |
|
|
Boosting agrobiodiversity for food security and sustainable competitiveness
HORIZON-CL6-2026-01-BIODIV-06
This call topic strongly encourages international
cooperation, while supporting research that boosts agrobiodiversity by
helping farmers and land managers adopt more diverse and resilient
production systems. It aims to demonstrate economic and
ecological benefits, improve market access for diverse products and
develop tools that reduce risk. Deadline: 17/09/2026 Read more |
Africa-Europe Digital & Climate Innovation Funding Programme –
Joint Innovation Facility
A
new Africa–Europe initiative supports digital and climate-focused
innovations by funding cross‑border partnerships. It empowers
organisations to scale tech solutions, strengthen resilience, and drive
sustainable impact through collaborative, market-ready projects. With a
consortium with at least two partners from different countries, and the
leading partner being an African entity. Deadline: 30/04/2026 Read more |
|
|
Eureka Biotech Call
The
Eureka Biotech Call supports small, innovation‑driven projects in
biotechnology, from medicine and bioinformatics to life sciences and
bioprocessing. Partners from participating countries, including South
Africa and Germany can form consortia to co‑develop biotech
solutions with clear implementation plans and mutual benefit. Deadline: 25/09/2026 Read more |
PRIMA Calls 2026
This
years PRIMA Work Programme features again three nexus themes, as
Innovation Actions plus a CSA to scale the WEFE Nexus community.
Additional RIAs are available depending on national funders,
including Egypt, Germany, Morocco and Tunisia. Deadline (1. Stage): 15/05/2026 (RIA, IA) Deadline CSA: 11/06/2026 Read more |
|
|
DAAD HAW.international (2027-29)The
DAAD published the new call for Universities of Applied Sciences Short
Measures. The programme supports universities of applied sciences in
strengthening international partnerships, launching short strategic
initiatives, and expanding global mobility through flexible six‑month
measures such as summer schools, workshops, and capacity‑building
activities. Deadline: 07/07/2026 Read more |
DAAD HAW.Short Measures
The HAW.Short Measures
supports universities of applied sciences in strengthening
international partnerships, launching short strategic initiatives, and
expanding global mobility through flexible six‑month measures such as
summer schools, workshops, and capacity‑building
activities. Deadline: 02/06/2026 Read more |
|
|
|
GROW – Global Research Opportunities for the South The
new DAAD programme supports early‑career and experienced researchers
with short research stays, networking and collaboration visits
in Germany. Aligned with the UN SDGs, it funds projects with clear
development impact helping advance global challenges through strong
international research partnerships. Deadline: 30/04/2026 Read more |
TWAS
& BMFTR: Grants for Transformative and Collaborative Research in
the Middle East and North Africa (GTCR-MENA) Region
This
new TWAS programme, supported by Germany’s BMFTR, boosts research
capacity in selected MENA countries and their diaspora. It focuses on
capacity building in science and education. Young scientists can apply
for funding for innovative projects in fields relevant to
Germany’s “High-Tech Agenda”. Deadline: 14/05/2026 Read more |
|
|
|
|
|
NewSpace in Africa Conference Africa’s
leading platform for space and satellite innovation brings together
industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators to drive the
continent’s growing space economy. The 2026 edition will spark new
collaborations, accelerate space‑driven solutions, and strengthen
Africa’s position in the global space landscape. Date: 20-23/04/2026 Location: Libreville, Gabon Read more |
|
|
|
13th AERAP Forum 2026 The
Forum comes at a pivotal moment for Africa–Europe cooperation,
science diplomacy and future research funding. As the EU
shapes its next budget and FP10, the event highlights the
growing importance of research, innovation and investment in
advancing EU–Africa science partnerships. Date: 20-23/04/2026 Location: Brussels & online Read more |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Afrikaforum Bavaria 2026 This
forum examines how Bavaria and Africa shape each other’s future.
Participants will explore economic trends, market access and
cooperation opportunities across key African markets. Experts offer
practical insights and guidance, especially for SMEs aiming to enter new
markets or expand their activities. Date: 07/05/2026 Location: Bayreuth, Germany Read more |
|
|
|
AI EVERYTHING x GITEX Kenya This
event brings together key public‑ and private‑sector leaders to advance
AI adoption, digital policy, and innovation across sectors. With
support from the Bavarian East Africa Office, Bavarian companies gain
tailored guidance on exhibition logistics, networking, and
potential partnerships in Kenya and the wider region. Date: 19-21/05/2026 Location: Nairobi, Kenya Read more |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Swiss Biotech Day This
leading international biotech conference continues to grow,
bringing together thousands of global life‑science professionals for
high‑level networking and collaboration. Participants can explore
advances in R&D, manufacturing, data, AI, and financing. It provides
a platform to deepen connections and partnerships in
the biotech ecosystem. Date: 04-05/05/2026 Location: Basel, Switzerland Read more |
|
|
|
Global Innovation Summit This
leading global gathering brings together innovators, industry experts,
and policymakers to advance biotech and its enabling technologies, from
digitalisation and translational R&D to manufacturing, chemistry,
and quality control. With inspiring keynotes, international matchmaking
opportunities, and a strong focus on collaborative project development,
the 2026 edition offers a unique chance to turn breakthrough ideas into
impactful solutions on a global scale. Date: 06/05/2026 Location: Basel, Switzerland Read more |
|
|
|
|
|
|
CCSE Stakeholder Forum 2026 The
Climate Change and Sustainable Energy (CCSE) Partnership
is convining a hybrid event bringing together researchers,
innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance climate action
and sustainable energy from Africa and Europe. Building on
LEAP‑RE, LEAP‑SE, and Horizon Europe, the event marks an important
step in strengthening long‑term AU–EU collaboration for a greener
future. Date: 18-20/05/2026 Location: Brussels, Belgium & online Read more |
|
|
|
AI EVERYTHING x GITEX Nigeria Bringing
together leading global tech players, this major event offers direct
access to cutting‑edge solutions driving West Africa’s digital
transformation, from AI and cybersecurity to connectivity and digital
infrastructure. Alongside the expo, the country’s largest startup
festival unites entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, creating a
powerful launchpad for Nigeria’s next generation of tech
disruptors. Date: 07-10/09/2026 Location: Lagos, Nigeria Read more |
|
|
|
|
News from the Bavarian Office for Africa
|
|
|
|
Greetings from Würzburg: A Startup Delegation Visit to Ethiopia The
Bavarian Office for Africa coordinated a four-day delegation visit from
Würzburg to Addis Ababa for a group of Bavarian companies. Through
strategic engagements with GIZ PSD-E, the Ethiopian Investment
Commission, and hubs like Iceaddis, participants gained a practical
understanding of Ethiopia’s startup ecosystem and regulatory
environment. A central roundtable with local
startups facilitated direct knowledge exchange and explored
future collaboration between Würzburg’s innovation actors and Ethiopian
entrepreneurs. The visit concluded with the delegation establishing key
institutional contacts and identifying concrete entry points
for potential market engagement. Read more |
|
|
|
Education as the Key to the Future: Inauguration of Two Education Projects in Ethiopia In
early 2026, the Bavarian State Chancellery and Menschen für Menschen
inaugurated two major educational projects in Ethiopia. From a high-tech
vocational center in Bure to a boarding school for girls in
the remote Dasenech region, these projects are dismantling
systemic barriers and equipping the next generation with the practical
skills and safe environments needed for a self-determined future. Read more |
|
|
|
News from the WKS Bavaria-Africa |
|
|
|
Biotech Initiative Kick-Off
A
new chapter in transcontinental research begins with the launch of the
Bavaria–Western Cape Biotechnology Initiative. Connecting leading
Bavarian universities and institutions with top research partners in
South Africa, the initiative strengthens joint innovation in health,
agriculture, environmental sciences, and the bioeconomy. The kick‑off
event on 13 March 2026 brought together representatives from the
participating organisations to set the foundation for future
collaborative solutions. Read more |
|
|
|
GH2 Connect Bavaria-Kenya
The
GH2 Connect Bavaria–Kenya project builds a joint platform linking
business, research, education, and public institutions to advance green
hydrogen collaboration. The aim is to learn from each other, share
experiences, and develop practical solutions for using green hydrogen
together. The WKS Bavaria‑Africa is contributing to
the practical implementation of international research and
innovation cooperation, paving the way for a sustainable,
climate-friendly energy future. Read more |
|
|
|
In each
newsletter issue, we present a research or innovation project from our
Stakeholder Map with Bavarian and African participation. |
|
Bavaria meets Africa - Building Entrepreneurial Bridges
Africa
Meets Bavaria, led by UnternehmerTUM, is a two-year initiative
funded by the Bavarian State Chancellery that connects Bavarian and
African innovation ecosystems to foster entrepreneurial collaboration.
The project includes three core elements: online training in digital
product development, a practical exchange in Bavaria with startups, and a
one-week learning visit to build networks in partner countries. Focused
on Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Kenya, it empowers young tech talents,
strengthens cross-continental partnerships, and addresses sustainability
and digital transformation challenges. More information |
|
|
Interested
in discovering more research and innovation projects between Africa and
Bavaria? Or do you wish to showcase your research and innovation project
between Africa and Bavaria? We invite you to visit our Stakeholder Map
Bavaria-Africa. |
|
|
|
|
Information provided according to Sec. 5 German Telemedia Act (TMG) Bayerische Forschungsallianz
(Bavarian Research Alliance) GmbH
Prinzregentenstr. 52
80538 Munich, Germany
Represented by
Martin Reichel
Director/CEO Register entry
Munich, HRB 163807 Contact Telephone: +49 (0) 89 9901-888-0
Email: bayern-afrika@bayfor.org VAT VAT Id number according to Sec. 27 a German Value Added Tax Act:
DE 814814471 Picture credits You will find the picture credits for the images used on this website here.
If, however, despite our taking the utmost care in our work, you feel
that your rights to an image have been breached, please contact us at
bayern-afrika@bayfor.org. |
| If you don't want to receive any more messages, you can unsubscribe here. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
