Colleagues,
As we look ahead to PABRA’s 30th Anniversary in September 2026, this moment invites reflection on how far the network has come, and the impact it continues to deliver across Africa. If beans could speak, they would tell stories of farmers rebuilding livelihoods in times of crisis, of scientists and innovators pushing boundaries, and of partners who chose collaboration over complexity.
Since its establishment in 1996, PABRA has grown into Africa’s largest bean research and development network, united by a simple but powerful vision: Better Beans for Africa. Over three decades, this vision has translated into hundreds of improved bean varieties, stronger seed systems, resilient value chains, and better nutrition for millions of households. Today, beans are not just a crop; they are a pathway to resilience, income, climate adaptation, and opportunity.
One of the most important achievements this year has been the launch and early progress of the PABRA Academy. Designed to address long-standing capacity gaps along the bean value chain, the Academy is equipping researchers and partners with the skills needed to develop and deliver market-responsive, climate-smart bean technologies. In its first round, postgraduate researchers from DR Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have already been supported, laying the foundation for a new generation of African bean scientists.
At the same time, PABRA’s impact on the ground remains profound. Through initiatives such as Beans for Women Empowerment (B4WE) in Eastern DRC, the network has demonstrated what is possible even in the most fragile contexts. Despite conflict, displacement, and extreme food insecurity, B4WE reached over 75,000 households this year alone, strengthened women-led agribusinesses, supported school nutrition systems, and reinforced seed and market access through deep partnerships with local and humanitarian actors. These efforts have increased food availability, women’s agency, and community resilience where they are needed most.
Innovation beyond breeding has also accelerated. In Tanzania, the Scaling Multi-Crop Threshing Machine initiative has reduced labor drudgery, cut post-harvest losses, improved grain quality, and created jobs for women and youth – showing how inclusive technologies can unlock value across the system.
As we approach this milestone anniversary, the message is clear: PABRA’s strength lies in its people, partnerships, and ability to adapt. The celebration in September 2026 will not only honor the past but also inspire the next generation to carry forward a legacy of science with impact.
Jean Claude Rubyogo – Global Bean Program Leader, Alliance of Bioversity international and CIAT and Director, PABRA