REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DEVELOPMENT - ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES IN AFRICA (AAASA)

Proj purpose was to assist in the devel of AAASA. AAASA objectives are to: 1) foster & devel agr sciences in Africa; 2) provide medium of exchange between scientists & professionals engaged in agr research; 3) encourage African agr trng; and 4) cooperate with other organizatns interested in African agr devel. Evaluatn based on Mission files & interviews. USAID assist has been vital to AAASA survival. Although not as extensive as estimated or desired, some African support has also been received from Govts of Ethiopia, Nigeria, Senegal, and Libya. Other donors were Rockefeller, Ford, AIC/CIDA, IDRC, and ODM. Copies of the Associatn"s scientific journal & newsletters have been produced & circulated among all members, selected scientists, and other officials. It is hoped such exchanges of papers among African & internatl scientists will have a positive influence on African agr devel. AAASA membership has increased from 457 in 1975 to 883 in 1978. AAASA has drafted its constitutn, devel its membership program & progress activities, prepared budget requirements, and solicited & obtained financial support. Also, 2 general conferences have been held. Mgmt and financial probs have occurred due to poor staffing & lack of support by other agencies. Numerous recommendatns are made. USAID/Ethiopia should continue to maintain AID assist & be the liaison between AAASA & USAID. AAASA should: 1) seek paymt of memberships dues and drop non-paying members; 2) continue to seek African donor & other support; 3) seek more econ instit relationships; 4) be subject to available resources; 5) consider expanding its chapters & sectns; and 6) consider conducting both regional & internatl studies as funds become available. Effort should be made to devel close & harmonious working relationships between AAASA, Assoc of Faculties of Agr in Africa (AFAA) & Assoc of African Universities (AAU). A joint secretariat for AAASA & AFAA should be considered. A computer facility should also be considered.