Mugwagwa, J; Banda, G; (2021) Science Councils and Financing of Research, Development and Innovation in Africa. In: Hanlin, R and Tigabu, AD and Sheikeldin, G, (eds.) Building Science Systems in Africa: Conceptual Foundations and Empirical Considerations. (pp. 115-134). African Centre for Technology Studies: Kenya.

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Abstract

The African Union’s Agenda 2063, supported by the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2024), advocates for economic development that leverages the knowledge-based economy and especially the potential of STI in upgrading industrial activities. It is incontestable that research is fundamental for contextualized generation of new knowledge, adopting and adapting existing innovations and knowledge, and their application to Africa’s economic and human developmental needs. African countries’ innovation ecosystems that support the aforementioned goals, and the funding of research and STI through science granting councils (SGCs) and other actors, are critical. This chapter discusses three key issues on the funding of STI and research: first – how Africa has historically funded STI and the reasons behind adoption of certain approaches; second, the shortcomings of historical and current funding models; and third, innovative funding models from the continent and elsewhere that can be adopted to accelerate local research and innovation activities. Adopting a historical and contemporary approach, the chapter explores how private and public actors across Africa can play a significant role and imbue resilience in financing research and innovation. The chapter also explores various strategies and measures research organizations use to align their activities with national development policies.

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