The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) is pleased to announce the official inauguration of the Resource Mobilization Committee, a strategic initiative established by the AAS Governing Council to strengthen and diversify the Academy's resource base in support of its mission to leverage on science, technology and innovation for Africa's sustainable development

The Committee will be chaired by Professor Hippolyte Fofack, an accomplished economist and development strategist, and brings together a distinguished group of AAS Fellows and experts with extensive experience across academia, research, development, philanthropy, and public policy.

As the landscape for research funding continues to evolve, the Committee will play a critical role in helping position the AAS for long-term financial sustainability, enabling the Academy to continue championing scientific excellence, evidence-informed policymaking, research leadership, and innovation across the continent.

Mandate of the Committee

The Resource Mobilization Committee has been established to provide strategic guidance and support on fundraising and partnership development. Its key responsibilities include:

• Developing a comprehensive fundraising strategy aimed at increasing and diversifying AAS funding sources.
• Identifying and cultivating relationships with potential funders and partners, including governments, development agencies, foundations, private-sector organizations, philanthropists, and individual African supporters.
• Facilitating access to major donors and strategic partners through the networks of AAS Fellows, Governing Council members, and other stakeholders, while encouraging prompt payment of Fellows' annual dues.
• Supporting the development of high-impact, fundable programmes and proposals aligned with the AAS strategic priorities.
• Promoting the growth of the AAS Endowment Fund and other sustainable sources of long-term income.
• Monitoring fundraising performance, including funds secured, proposals submitted, and the value of the funding pipeline.
• Strengthening engagement with existing donors and partners to encourage the renewal and expansion of support.
• Advising the Governing Council on strategic fundraising opportunities and resource mobilization initiatives.
• Promoting transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of resources mobilized for the Academy.

The Committee will report directly to the Governing Council and work closely with the AAS Secretariat through its fundraising function.

Committee Membership

The Resource Mobilization Committee comprises the following members:

• Professor Hippolyte Fofack – Chairperson
• Professor J.J. Cochran
• Professor Sospeter Muhongo
• Professor Hilary Inyang
• Professor Stephen Agong
• Professor Nicholas Ozor
• Professor Elly Sabiti
• Professor Shaukat Abdulrazak
• Professor Kunle Odunsi
• Professor Richard Jia Yinsuo
• Professor Marlene Temmerman
• Dr Stephen Mutwiwa
• Professor O. Jegede

Looking Ahead

The inauguration of the Resource Mobilization Committee marks an important milestone in the Academy's efforts to build a resilient and sustainable funding model that supports Africa's scientific aspirations. Over the coming months, the Committee will refine its workplan and develop a strategic roadmap to guide its tenure, identifying innovative opportunities for resource mobilization and partnership development.

Through the collective expertise, networks, and commitment of its members, the Committee is expected to strengthen the Academy's capacity to mobilize resources, expand strategic partnerships, and secure the investments needed to advance science-driven solutions for Africa's development.

The AAS looks forward to working with the Committee, Fellows, partners, donors, and stakeholders to build a stronger and more sustainable future for African science.