Knowledge is at the heart of Sustainable Development. Today’s societies are characterized by a predominant and still growing share of knowledge work at all levels of institutions. Knowledge is essential because it supports decision making, evidence-based planning and increases institutional credibility.  Knowledge is critical for research organisations because research is an essential component in generating knowledge. The role of AR&D institutions in knowledge generation towards Africa’s agenda in halving poverty by 2025 through the CAADP Malabo commitment as well as contributing to the SDGs 2030 cannot be overemphasized.

According to Knowledge for Development Partnership (K4DP), understanding the nature of knowledge, knowing how to manage knowledge professionally, and continuously advancing knowledge is essential for agricultural growth and development at the individual, organizational, and societal levels. Knowledge is a primary resource of societies – dynamically changing through several drivers like globalization, digitalization, specialization, and more ( (K4DP, 2018). A competent, targeted, and integrated approach to knowledge in societies is necessary to achieve the CAADP commitments, the SDGs and National Development Plans. Unfortunately, many countries and institutions are still struggling to manage huge amounts of knowledge to demonstrate evidence of progress towards the Malabo Targets and the SDGs.