The knowledge of scientists in developed and developing world is an asset which could lead to economic development, jobs (financially and intellectually rewarding positions for top scientists), and needed products for farmers, if translation mechanisms are in place to foster commercialization of research. Establishing the means and mechanisms to develop new agricultural technologies that increase yield or that grow value-added products could benefit small scale farmers, potentially enabling them to move from subsistence to revenue producing farming. The commercialization of the technologies would provide skilled jobs for scientists and engineers, enabling them to earn revenues from their knowledge. Over the long term these opportunities could help provide incentives to retain an educated workforce in Africa, and to stem the brain drain. Public-private partnerships would be essential to achieving these objectives.