Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian universities and research institutions have an opportunity to translate knowledge into action following the launch of a €500.5 million (about Sh1.5 trillion) European Union (EU) fund.
The fund aimed at strengthening science, technology and innovation (STI) partnerships with Africa.
Unveiled in May 2025, under the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025 through Africa Initiative III, the fund represents the EU’s largest Africa-focused research support package to date.
It includes 24 calls for proposals across five strategic areas: public health, green transition, innovation and technology, scientific capacity, and cross-cutting priorities.
This presents a timely opportunity for Tanzania—where institutions such as the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and others continue to face funding constraints.
“This is a significant opportunity for African scientists, and Tanzania must not be left behind,” said a senior research fellow at the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), Ms Amina Mwinjuma.
“Our universities should apply assertively, especially in green transition and public health, where we face major challenges,” she added.
Locally, the UDSM has already taken deliberate steps to address funding shortfalls by allocating Sh10.5 billion over five years, including Sh3.1 billion in 2025 alone.
According to the UDSM’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Prof Nelson Boniface, this commitment underlines the importance of domestic investment in research.
“We believe local ownership of research is essential,” Prof Boniface told The Citizen in an interview.
“External funding is strategic and welcome, but it should complement — not replace — our own efforts. That is why we allocate our resources to ensure continuity and maintain control,” he added.
Prof Boniface cautioned that over-reliance on foreign funding can shift research priorities away from national needs. “With local investment, we can shape our research agenda and ensure it addresses what Tanzanians need. But pursuing international funding opportunities remains vital,” he insisted.
Despite these concerns, experts agree that the Horizon Europe fund—especially its collaborative approach—presents a unique opportunity to raise Tanzanian research on the global stage.
“This isn’t just about the money—it’s about access to networks, data, and policy influence,” said a regional innovation policy advisor, Prof Fatuma Rweyemamu.
“We must build consortiums with both African and European institutions. That’s where meaningful innovation occurs,” she said.
Africa Initiative III calls are open to universities, NGOs, innovation hubs, and research institutions, with cross-border collaboration, social sciences, gender equity, and evidence-based policymaking highlighted as areas of emphasis.
The Tanzanian government has also prioritised research in its upcoming 2025/26 budget, with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology allocating Sh1.44 trillion. The EU fund is viewed as a complementary boost to this national agenda.
“The EU package aligns well with our current priorities. Institutions stand a good chance, if they can align their proposals with EU and national development strategies,” said a science advisor, Dr Edwin Mbise.
The Horizon calls—especially in public health and sustainable agriculture—closely mirror issues Tanzania is actively working to address.
They include antimicrobial resistance, climate-resilient agriculture, and digital transformation in rural areas.
Competitive proposals
However, securing funding will not be automatic. Applicants must meet rigorous eligibility and quality benchmarks.
“Success is not based on nationality—it depends on having a strong, relevant proposal,” said an EU research consultant familiar with Horizon Europe, Ms Lidia Lorusso.
“Proposals must demonstrate real impact, clear policy relevance, and diversity in expertise,” she added.
She noted that many African institutions fall short not due to poor science, but because of weak consortium formation and inadequate demonstration of societal impact.
With deadlines falling between September and December 2025, Tanzanian researchers are being urged to start preparing now.
UDSM, Ardhi University, Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), and Sokoine University of Agriculture are all seen as well-placed to lead or participate in proposals, particularly in green technologies and food systems.
“This is a test of our readiness. Can we mobilise, draft, and submit top-quality proposals that deliver real value? If we can, then this could be transformative—not just for labs and universities, but for farmers, doctors, and entrepreneurs across Tanzania,” said Ms Mwinjuma.
Nonetheless, Prof Boniface reiterated that while international partnerships are crucial, long-term research advancement must be grounded in domestic commitment.
“Ultimately, we must finance our knowledge economy. Let’s embrace these opportunities wisely—but let’s not build our future solely on donor goodwill,” Prof Boniface insisted.
