A World Bank Implementation Support Mission (ISM) that started in Lesotho (9–13 December 2024) was concluded in Angola (20–24 January 2025). APPSA is a World Bank-funded initiative that focuses on collaborative agricultural research and the establishment of Regional Centers of Leadership (RCoLs) for key commodities. Angola is developing an RCoL for cassava and cassava-based farming systems, while Lesotho is focusing on horticulture and horticulture-based farming systems. The Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA) is responsible for the coordination function.
Noted key accomplishments under APPSA include the following:
- Technology generation and dissemination: With a target of 100 improved technologies, innovations and management practices (TIMPS) made available to farmers, the programme has reported 117 TIMPS, including 24 from the first phase of APPSA.
- Farmer Engagement: The programme has reached about 44,817 beneficiaries across Angola and Lesotho, including 1,496 lead farmers. The end of programme target is 50,000 beneficiaries.
- Capacity Building: While the majority are yet to complete their studies, the programme has supported over 50 research staff from the two countries for long-term training (BSc, MSc and PhD).
- Infrastructure Development: Both Angola and Lesotho have managed to rehabilitate and construct research facilities, laboratories, office blocks, conference facilities, and irrigation systems in different locations. Both countries have achieved over 95% completion rate in civil works and infrastructure development.
Launched in 2019, APPSA was originally set to end on 31 January 2025. However, the World Bank has agreed to extend the programme closing date to 30 June 2025. The no cost extension will allow completion of key activities in the different sub-projects and infrastructure development. It is worth noting that the programme experienced a slow start and did not commence at the same time in the two countries (Angola and Lesotho). In addition, implementation of research activities and infrastructure development in the two countries was harshly affected by COVID-19 related travel restrictions within and outside national borders.
APPSA continues to drive agricultural innovation in Southern Africa, fostering collaboration between countries. With this extension, the programme is set to deliver on its promises, ensuring long-term benefits for farmers and research institutions alike.
Dr. João da Costa Ferreira Neto, Director General of the Instituto de Investigação Agronómica (IIA), shares key insights on APPSA-supported trials with the Honourable Secretary of State for Agriculture of the Republic of Angola, Dr. Castro Camarada, during a visit to Malanje where the Cassava Regional Center of Leadership (RCoL) is being established.
