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Introduction
The purpose of this Request for Concept Notes (RfCN) is to invite concept notes from
researchers within organizations based in Kenya and Nigeria to conduct innovative and
feasible action research under the Climate Adaptation in Agriculture (ARCAA) program.
ARCAA supports locally led climate-adaptation action research aimed at informing
climate-smart agricultural innovations and accelerating their adoption and scaling in Kenya
and Nigeria. This RfCN is jointly issued by RTI International and RUFORUM, with funding
from the Gates Foundation.
About RTI
RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the
human condition by turning knowledge into practice. RTI publishes more than 1,000 peerreviewed journal articles annually, often in collaboration with global research partners, with a
focus on informing decision-making and public policy. RTI also implements international
development programs, with experience in more than 100 countries around the world. RTI's
agriculture and food systems practice conducts research and implements programs that
sustain the environment and support equitable, thriving communities. RTI has worked with
clients across the public, private, foundation, and nonprofit sectors globally.
About RUFORUM
Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) is a network of
universities across 40 countries in Africa. RUFORUM collaborates globally with other
university networks, development partners, policymakers, and leaders to leverage synergies
and work towards shared objectives in delivering science solutions for development, human
capital development, and institutional reform in the African Higher Agricultural Education
system. The network is African owned, aligned with country goals, and thrives in multistakeholder engagement that promotes equity and implements gender responsive
interventions. RUFORUM is nested within continental and global frameworks, including the
Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), Africa’s Agenda
2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We recognize that youth are
the driving force behind change and are leading the charge for a better Africa.
Background on ARCAA
Africa is disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, yet most climate
research on the continent is led by scientists based outside Africa.1 This imbalance limits
representation of local perspectives and perpetuates dependency on external solutions.
To address this gap, RTI and RUFORUM, with funding from the Gates Foundation, have
launched the ARCAA program. ARCAA aims to support locally led action research that
increases adoption and scaling of innovations and technologies to strengthen farmers’
adaptation to climate change in Kenya and Nigeria. Ultimately, the results of the action
research funded through ARCAA are expected to meet the needs of small-scale producers
by enhancing their productivity, income, and nutrition in the face of climate shocks and
environmental stresses.
The program takes an “action research” approach. ARCAA expects funded action research
to be guided by the following principles set out by the Adaptation Research Alliance: