Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF)
10th Anniversary Impact Evaluation 

What was asked? 

Kohlrabi was commissioned by the Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) to undertake a six-month, mixed-method evaluation in the lead-up to the organisation’s 10th anniversary. The evaluation was designed to answer nine overarching questions using a blend of impact evaluation, process evaluation, implementation fidelity, and realist evaluation principles. 

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The purpose of this work was to assess AREF's contribution to strengthening the capacities of African health researchers through its fellowships and training programmes. The evaluation also sought to highlight AREF’s key accomplishments and provide actionable insights into the organisation's effectiveness and long-term sustainability. 

 

What we did 

We conducted a four-stage evaluation process combining qualitative and quantitative methods: 

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• A documentary review of programme records and evaluation data from the last 10 years 

• In-depth interviews with key stakeholders and programme alumni 

• A quantitative survey shared with all past AREF programme participants 

• A live observation and assessment of a current AREF training programme to evaluate real-time delivery and impact 

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This multi-method approach allowed us to capture both the intended and unintended outcomes of AREF’s initiatives, as well as their sustained impact over time. 

 

What we found 

Our findings revealed that AREF has made substantial contributions to building a pipeline of African health researchers, directly supporting nearly 1,000 individuals over the past decade. The evaluation highlighted how AREF has helped to overcome long-standing barriers to research, such as limited funding, infrastructure, and scientific training, leading to measurable successes in: 

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• Grant acquisition 

• Academic publishing 

• Career progression 

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Beyond individual achievement, the research community fostered by AREF has extended its impact through mentorship, institutional capacity building, policy influence, and leadership roles at national and continental levels. 

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The insights generated are helping AREF shape future investment and programming decisions. Our deliverables included a comprehensive final report and eight themed ‘mini reports’ to inform internal planning, fundraising, and broader sector learning. Links to these reports will be shared once available. 

 

Testimonials 

Coming soon!

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