BAORULA extended its networks

Prof. Joyce Lepetu, from the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), was invited as a resource person to the Workshop on Transformative Teaching of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) convened by  Global Forum on Agricultural Innovation and Research (GFAiR)  and Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) in Nairobi, Kenya, 11–12 December 2025. The workshop brought together lecturers, researchers, youth innovators, agri-food entrepreneurs, and partners from Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean to co-design systems-based curriculum modules and strengthen links between teaching, innovation, enterprise development, and policy around NUS. Prof. Lepetu’s recognised work on Baobab (Adansonia digitata) and Morula/Marula (Sclerocarya birrea) contributed directly to discussions on how universities can integrate indigenous trees into teaching and research, connect curricula with community practice, and support policy-relevant innovation across southern Africa and beyond.

Through Prof. Lepetu’s participation, the BAORULA Network advanced its mission to reposition neglected and underutilised indigenous trees at the centre of resilient, nutritious, and culturally grounded agri-food systems. Baobab and morula exemplify the untapped potential of NUS—offering nutrient-dense foods, climate resilience, livelihood opportunities, and strong socio-cultural value—yet they remain marginal in many university curricula.

As part of this engagement, BAORULA donated 15 copies of its flagship Baobab and Marula publications to selected workshop participants, strengthening knowledge exchange, expanding collaboration and networking opportunities, and fostering long-term partnerships among universities, research organisations, and innovation actors committed to transforming indigenous trees into drivers of sustainable agri-food systems and green economies.

Photo: Mr Francois Stepman of GFAiR and Prof. Joyce Lepetu.