Building the research talent Africa needs for an evidence-driven future

Africa's future will be shaped by decisions about emerging technologies, a changing climate and persistent health challenges. Those decisions need rigorous research and evidence grounded in African realities.

YARA identifies promising researchers early and gives them rigorous training and sustained mentorship to produce evidence that can inform policy and strengthen institutions.

Learn about YARA

Our Key Areas of Focus

YARA concentrates its research and programmes in three areas where stronger local evidence and research capacity will shape consequential decisions across the continent.

Artificial Intelligence

Useful AI depends on the data, methods and institutions around it. YARA focuses on locally grounded data, AI that can work in resource-constrained settings, and the governance and safeguards needed for responsible use.

Climate

A changing climate is reshaping food systems, water, weather patterns, oceans and livelihoods. YARA supports research that strengthens understanding, adaptation and resilience.

Public Health

Health outcomes are shaped by disease, environmental exposure and the systems responsible for prevention and care. YARA supports research that strengthens prevention, detection and health-system resilience.

Brianna Ama Nyarkowaa Donkoh

YARA Fellow

Research

Brianna is investigating who is most at risk of lead exposure.

In Kintampo, Ghana, Brianna Ama Nyarkowaa Donkoh is analysing blood lead levels alongside factors such as age, occupation, water source and household practices to understand how exposure differs across population groups.

Her research could help identify which groups should be prioritised for lead-exposure prevention and further investigation.

Explore public health research

Meet the inaugural Fellows

Meet the researchers beginning YARA's first Fellowship year.

Ten emerging researchers are pursuing original work across artificial intelligence, climate and public health, supported by structured training and sustained mentorship.

Meet the Fellows

Programmes

STEM Research Fellowship

Our year-long STEM Research Fellowship gives emerging researchers rigorous research training, sustained mentorship and the opportunity to develop an original research project.

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AI, Ethics & Climate Governance Fellowship

As artificial intelligence and climate technologies advance, new questions are emerging about how they should be governed, who benefits and how their risks are managed. This fellowship brings emerging researchers and practitioners into those questions.

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View all programmes

A year of research, brought into public view.

On 30 September 2026, YARA's inaugural Fellows will present the research they have developed over the past year at the Google AI Community Center in Accra.

Through oral presentations and poster sessions, Fellows will share their work with researchers, universities, public institutions, industry and funders, opening it to critique, collaboration and new pathways for use. The Symposium will also recognise outstanding research from the inaugural cohort.

30 September 2026 · 9:00 AM–5:00 PM GMT · Accra