Africa’s 10-year science plan ‘lacked buy-in needed to deliver’

Successor to continent’s Stisa-2024 strategy needs broader support and dedicated resources, says hard-hitting review

A 10-year strategy to drive African advances in science, technology and innovation over the past decade was severely hampered by a lack of buy-in from governments, weak governance structures and inadequate resources, a review has found.

The strategy, which expires this year, was adopted by African heads of state in June 2014. However, its effectiveness has been “negatively influenced” by weak consultation with African states, a lack of clarity about implementation and accountability measures, and the absence of a dedicated funding mechanism, according to the review report, dated 13 December.