CWISA, the Centre for Weed and Invasive Species Africa, is an organization focused on protecting biodiversity, strengthening food security, and restoring natural capital across Africa. It approaches invasive weeds not only as threats to agriculture and ecosystems, but also as underused resources with potential to support rural livelihoods and sustainable production.

The centre conducts applied and strategic research into weed ecology, invasion pathways, plant–pest interactions, and ecosystem impacts. Its research draws on field experiments, greenhouse trials, and molecular approaches to inform practical, ecologically grounded management. CWISA also provides ecological assessments and surveillance, including weed inventories, invasive species mapping, habitat assessments, and long-term monitoring. GIS tools and ecological sampling help generate evidence for restoration, early warning systems, and policy planning.

Alongside management research, CWISA develops bio-innovation and circular bioeconomy solutions that turn invasive plant biomass into useful products. Its work includes biochar production, biostimulant extraction, livestock feed evaluation, and identifying species with medicinal or valuable metabolites. These efforts connect ecological restoration with potential benefits for soil fertility, livestock, and community enterprises.