Science as a Driver for Sustainable Development: Africa's Role in Global Progress

At the UN Financing for Development Summit (FfD4) session, hosted under the auspices of the 2024 Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) on 02 December 2024, Dr Thandi Mgwebi, Group Executive for Business Advancement at the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa, delivered a powerful keynote on Harnessing Science for Sustainable Development.

She highlighted Africa’s pivotal role in leveraging science and innovation as engines of growth; addressing challenges from climate change to food insecurity, and positioning the continent as a key player in the global knowledge economy.

Dr Mgwebi discussed several critical aspects:

1. Resource Mobilisation & Leadership: African scientific leadership has shaped initiatives like the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) in Sub-Saharan Africa, fostering collaborations that fund research, build human capital, and drive socio-economic development.

2. Global Collaborations: Africa is at the forefront of transformative projects such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), revolutionising fields like astrophysics and producing positive economic and social impacts.

3. Health & Climate Innovation: African scientists led efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, driving vaccine research and establishing vaccine manufacturing hubs. Similarly, African climate scientists continue advocating for vital adaptation and financing solutions to address the continent’s challenges.

4. Shaping Policy Dialogues: As we approach FfD4, African scientists are uniquely positioned to shape global policy, from advocating for equitable financing to driving innovative solutions and ensuring accountability in global funding strategies.

Dr Mgwebi’s message was clear: “Africa’s scientific leadership is essential in shaping a sustainable future, driving innovation, and ensuring the continent’s priorities are represented on the global stage. As we move forward, we must invest in the next generation of scientists, foster stronger partnerships, and amplify our collective voice in global science and financing forums”.

Let’s continue advancing science as a force for good.