- Research capacity is not evenly distributed globally, with Africa being particularly underserved.
- Funding for post-doctoral research in Africa is improving, but opportunities after completion are lacking.
- International research partnerships that use local expertise can help level the playing field.
The world is experiencing unprecedented interconnectedness, bringing both benefits and negative consequences such as the rapid spread of diseases like Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19.
Climate change is creating new health risks and worsening existing challenges, with research playing a critical role in identifying causative agents, developing protective measures, and designing treatment regimens and vaccines.
Despite the importance of health research, capacity is unevenly distributed globally, with Africa having significantly fewer health researchers per million people compared to Europe.
Many post-doctoral African researchers lack access to essential training, mentorship, research networks, and international collaborative opportunities.
Gender inequality and cultural expectations also hinder the research output of women scientists in Africa.
Lack of support structures, gender inequity, and bias towards non-African research contribute to the loss of human capital in Africa and underutilization of local knowledge.
To address these challenges, equitable international and local research partnerships are essential to empower African researchers and combat health issues effectively.
AREF advocates for locally led post-doctoral training, research leadership programs, mentorship, and funding to support African researchers and institutions.
Gender equity initiatives and partnerships with organizations like CCC are crucial to promote women researchers in Africa and enhance their opportunities for success.
This content was originally published by the World Economic Forum.