EXCEL Africa: Excellence in Crop Nutrition Research and Outreach

Our EXCEL Africa initiative is aimed at fostering advancements in nutrient management and agronomic practices across the African continent. It seeks to identify, support and celebrate outstanding achievements in crop nutrition research and outreach—acknowledging the pivotal role they play in enhancing food security and sustainable agricultural practices. By spotlighting excellence in this domain, APNI aims to inspire a culture of innovation and collaboration among researchers, agronomists, and other stakeholders to catalyze change and promote effective strategies to address the unique challenges faced by African farmers.

BY THE NUMBERS (2019 to 2026)

1.86 M Funding

171 Rising Researcher Network

19 Countries

67 Institutions & Organizations

70 Post-Graduate Scholarships

26 Applied M.Sc. Research Programs

14 Applied Ph.D. Research Programs

4 Early Career Mentorships

8 APNRF Grantees

46 Research Fellowships

3 Researcher Achievement Awards

Awards and Grants

Projects

Stories

New EXCEL Africa Project Securing Ag. Research Innovation for Ghana and Morocco

On September 10th, APNI welcomed partners from Australia, Ghana, and Morocco for an official project launch event unveiling an international ...

EXCEL Africa News: 2026 Phosphorus Fellowship Recipients Announced

The African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) has announced the 2026 finalists for the African Phosphorus ...

EXCEL Africa News: 2026 Scholar Award Recipients Announced!

The African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) has announced the 2026 finalists of its annual African ...

PH.D. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Also, under the umbrella of Excel Africa, is APNI’s program to develop highly skilled Ph.D. scientists specializing in agronomic R&D in Africa. By integrating Ph.D.-level expertise within our ongoing research programs, we aim to accelerate the use of advanced plant nutrition strategies. Our investment in education and mentorship also helps to cultivate a new generation of leaders in agricultural science. By training and equipping young scientists within Africa, the program strengthens the capacity to conduct locally relevant agricultural research to address our biggest food security and sustainability concerns for the continent. Our graduates can lead efforts to optimize fertilizer use, improve soil health, and develop farmer friendly agricultural practices.

APNI’s program to develop Ph.D.-level expertise in R&D is a strategic investment in Africa’s agricultural future.

OUR PH.D. STUDENTS

Aboubacar Mariko

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: UM6P, Benguérir, Morocco

Angela Gitonga

Agronomist
  • LOCATION: University of Nairobi, Kenya

Anna Nowembabazi

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: Makerere University, Uganda

Aziza Tangi

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: UM6P, Benguérir, Morocco

Bright Laboan

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: Soil Research Institute, Ghana / Cranfield University, UK

Elongne M. N’douba

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: INP-HB, Côte d’Ivoire

Emmanuel Odoom

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: University of Cape Coast, Ghana

Intissare Mouamine

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: UM6P, Benguérir, Morocco

Jerome A. Dogbatse

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: University of Ghana, Ghana

Joses Muthamia

Agronomist
  • LOCATION: University of Embu, Kenya

Martin Maku

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: Makerere University, Uganda

Rabii Lanwer

Doctoral Student
  • LOCATION: Olive Institute / Tunis El Manar, Tunisia