Opportunity to Join FAO's Reference Centres in Animal Nutrition and Feed

News in brief:

-FAO is inviting qualified institutions to become Reference Centres for Animal Nutrition and Feed, offering global recognition and collaboration opportunities.

-Selected organisations will support research, capacity building, and innovation in livestock systems while leveraging FAO’s networks and expertise.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has opened a major opportunity for African institutions, agribusinesses, and research bodies to gain global recognition by becoming designated Reference Centres for Animal Nutrition and Feed.

The call targets qualified institutions with expertise in livestock nutrition, feed production, and related value chains, offering a pathway to collaborate directly with FAO and support member countries in strengthening animal health, food safety, and sustainable agriculture.

A Strategic Opportunity for Growth and Visibility

Animal nutrition and feed quality are central to modern livestock production, influencing everything from disease resistance and food safety to environmental sustainability. With demand for animal protein rising across Africa, FAO’s initiative presents a timely opportunity for local players to position themselves at the forefront of innovation and policy influence.

Selected institutions will gain international recognition, access to FAO’s global networks, and opportunities to participate in joint research, training, and resource mobilisation. For agribusinesses and research centres, this could unlock new partnerships, enhance credibility, and expand market reach.

Who Should Apply?

FAO is seeking institutions that can provide technical expertise, research support, and capacity development in areas such as animal nutrition, feed safety, ration formulation, feed production, and sustainability.

Eligible applicants include universities, research institutes, feed companies, laboratories, and agricultural organisations that have:

Proven expertise in animal nutrition and feed systems

Capacity to deliver training, research, or advisory services

Experience in data management, feed analysis, or technology development

A track record of collaboration with FAO or similar bodies (ideally at least two years)

Institutions must also demonstrate the ability to fund their own participation, as FAO does not provide direct financial support.

Key Benefits of Becoming a Reference Centre

Successful applicants will:

Gain global recognition and association with a United Nations agency

Access FAO’s technical knowledge, data, and policy resources

Collaborate on international research and training programmes

Join a global network of scientific and technical partners

Strengthen their influence in shaping livestock and feed systems

The designation is valid for four years, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and collaboration outcomes.

Application Requirements

Interested institutions must submit an application detailing their expertise, capabilities, and proposed areas of collaboration. A government endorsement, typically from the Ministry of Agriculture, is also required.

As Africa’s livestock sector continues to expand, this initiative offers a valuable opportunity for forward-thinking organisations to lead in innovation, sustainability, and food security across the continent.