How science benefits governments: Conversations with Dirce Madeira and Edson Faria, Mozambique

Partnerships strengthen sustainable funding for African research councils through scientific engagement, according to Mozambique’s National Research Fund (NRF) representatives Dirce Madeira, Head of Projects M&E Department, and Edson Faria, Financial Chief, in a recent interview.

They identified key sustainability factors, including alignment with continental and regional frameworks such as the African Union’s Agenda 2056 and Southern African Development Community (SADC) funding agreements. The pair stressed that synchronizing with these bodies is essential for science councils’ success.

Madeira and Faria emphasized the value of establishing Memoranda of Understanding with fellow science granting councils.

Key NRF partnership drives research

One of their partnerships is with the National Research Foundation (NRF) in South Africa. They are involved in several initiatives with the NRF, including the Oliver Tambo Research Chairs. As part of the Chair, funding is given to researchers both nationally and regionally. They are also participating in the Africa-Japan collaborative research program (AJ-Core).  

While acknowledging challenges in building independent partnerships, the duo maintained that their involvement proves science’s relevance to government and encourages greater investment.

They advocate allocating 1% of GDP to research to create a sustainable ecosystem that fosters African funding independence aligned with regional priorities.

They further discuss how SGCI participation has positioned African SGCs as partners of choice. They note the growing global recognition of the SGCI, with around 17 African countries involved and others, like Angola, expressing interest.

Increased investment

Nationally, the SGCI supports policy discussions and strengthens the research and innovation ecosystem.

Lessons from building partnerships emphasise science’s importance to governments, advocate for increased investment, and push for a target of 1% of GDP for research.

Participation in the SGCI strengthens Mozambique’s visibility in the science ecosystem. The initiative has enabled policy development, enhanced collaboration, and attracted new funding opportunities. It has also improved the country’s standing within regional and global research networks, positioning it as a credible science funding partner. They hope other African countries will join the SGCI to enhance collaboration and have a great impact.

Watch the full interview to hear Madeira and Faria’s insights on positioning one’s country as a credible science partner.