SGCI Annual All Partners Forum Held in Windhoek

Hosted by Namibia’s National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST), the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) Annual All Partners Forum was held in Windhoek, Namibia, from 28 September to 2 October 2026.

The Forum was officially opened by Namibian Prime Minister, Hon. Elijah Ngurare, who highlighted the importance of science, technology and innovation (STI) in advancing national and continental development. He emphasised the need to bring research closer to society and policy, ensuring that research responds to real development challenges and informs decision-making, while also calling for increased investment in STI by African governments.

Held under the theme, “From Commitment to Action,” the Forum focused on strengthening Science Granting Councils (SGCs) and translating research investments into greater societal and development impact. Discussions highlighted the importance of stronger institutions, sustainable financing, strategic partnerships, and greater collaboration among African SGCs.

A key milestone was the submission of applications by SGCs from Gambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Benin, Lesotho, and Eswatini to join the SGCI network. Participants also reaffirmed support from the African Union, African governments, and international partners for the continued development and sustainability of the initiative in alignment with the objectives of STISA-2034.

The Forum demonstrated growing momentum towards practical collaboration, including through recently launched joint multilateral research calls that introduce a matched-funding approach involving African SGCs. These initiatives provide an important mechanism for councils to work together around shared priorities while increasing African investment in research.

The NRF delegation was led by Acting CEO, Dr Angus Paterson, who reflected on the evolution of the SGCI from institutional capacity building to research collaboration and, increasingly, towards long-term sustainability, growth and expansion. Dr Sepo Hachigonta, Head: Strategic Partnerships, Networking and Resourcing, who represents the NRF in the SGCI Councils Coordination Group, chaired a panel discussion on “Scaling Investments, Building Partnerships and Strategic Alliances.” The discussion explored how bilateral and multilateral partnerships, including with European partners, can support the SGCI’s growth and long-term sustainability while remaining aligned with African priorities.

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) Deputy Director-General, Mr Daan du Toit, also participated in a high-level dialogue with policymakers, Science Granting Councils, the African Union Commission and AUDA-NEPAD. The dialogue examined the implementation of STISA-2034 and the role of Science Granting Councils and the SGCI in strengthening Africa’s STI systems and policy influence.

The Forum reaffirmed the SGCI’s growing role as a platform for African collaboration, joint investment, resource mobilisation and strategic partnerships. More importantly, it reflected a collective commitment to move beyond dialogue towards concrete action, increased African investment in STI, and stronger links between research, policy and society.

As the SGCI enters its third phase, the focus will be on turning commitment into implementation by strengthening the sustainability of Science Granting Councils, expanding research collaboration, strengthening the link between SGCs and policy, mobilising resources, and ensuring that research delivers tangible benefits for societies across the continent.