A global promise to ease hunger for millions has been undermined by financial turmoil and climate change. Meanwhile, fears about global water and food security continue to grow, as does public concern for the health of populations in developing countries.

In this context, the publication of the Africa call from the 7th Research Framework Programme represents a great opportunity for strengthening Africa's base in research areas addressing these complex issues.

The EU-AFRICA Strategic Partnership has paved the way to this call, implemented jointly by the Themes: 'Health', 'Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, and Biotechnology' and 'Environment (including climate change)', which will fund projects aimed at enhancing African socio-economic development and capacity building.

The Africa Call at a glance

The call is structured around two major areas:

• Water and Food Security
• Better Health for Africa

It has a holistic approach involving various scientific and technological research fields, such as food, agriculture, health, land and water resources, including their interaction with climate change and integrating broader socio-economic factors such as migration and resettlement, urbanisation, health care systems and programme interventions.

Research activities are intended to strengthen local capacities. Achieving the expected impact means that the involvement of local stakeholders and regional actors is of paramount importance.

Funded projects will provide innovative management, governance tools and technologies suitable for the relevant authorities and stakeholders, empowering them to reduce poverty, increase food security and enhance public health. Further expected benefits are related to academic training and the setting up of health research networks, efficient water management and the protection of natural ecosystems in Africa.

View the Call topics