Archive for January 2025
Solar-powered device seeks to solve Nigeria’s water problems
[LAGOS] Researchers in Nigeria have developed a solar-powered biosensor filtration device that detects and removes killer germs in water, making it safe to drink. Nigeria faces a severe water crisis, with an estimated 70 per cent of water at the point of consumption contaminated, according to UNICEF. The UN children’s agency says 117, 000 children…
Read MoreRwandan scientists develop local yeast for banana wine-makers
[KIGALI] For years, Augusti Ntivuguruzwa struggled to perfect his banana wine in Rwanda. As for many traditional wine-makers in the country, each batch brought uncertainty about whether regulators would approve his product. “Before now, we did not have any yeast specifically made for banana wine and it has been difficult for regulators to approve of…
Read MoreNew Research Agendas to Strengthen African Health Systems
The initiative to build new research agendas to strengthen African health systems began with a pilot phase consisting of a 4.5-year, CAD1-million investment from IDRC. This initiative funds two national science granting councils (SGCs) in West Africa to develop and implement impactful research programs focused on strengthening health systems. It has two interconnected aims: to…
Read MoreHow language barriers are impeding science learning
Language plays a crucial role in education, shaping how students learn and connect with the world. Yet, according to UNESCO, 40 per cent of the global population does not have access to education in a language they speak or understand. This gap presents a significant barrier to effective learning, particularly in science education, where technical terms and…
Read MoreQ&A: Partnerships key to collaborating for impactful outcomes
African scientists are trying to elevate their global presence through innovative partnerships. Copyright: Image by Freepik Abraham Mathodi – Acting Deputy Director, Ministry of Communications, Knowledge and Technology, Botswana speaks to SciDev.Net during the 2024 Annual African Science Granting Councils Meeting in Gaborone, Botswana. How can partnerships – such as those within the SGCI – can…
Read More