Covid-19 Africa Rapid Grant Fund: Science advice project abstracts

These project abstracts are part of the COVID-19 Africa Rapid Grant Fund, which include science-focused COVID-10 response projects across Africa. The aim of the projects is to provide evidence-based science advice for effective policy making during the pandemic.

The COVID-19 science advice project abstracts

Dr. Aliyu Muhammad, Nigerian Young Academy (Nigeria)

The aim of this research is to bridge the science-policy gap in Africa. Focusing on Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon and Senegal, the project would involve collecting and sharing research and policy recommendations. This will help build an information sharing network to improve disease response.

The key outputs from this research include infographics, policy briefs, technical reports and scientific articles, amongst others.

Dr. Pacifique Ndishimye, University of Rwanda (Rwanda)

The goal of this project is to form a multilateral science advisory network, addressing the lack of coordination between researchers and policymakers. The project would involve different groups, including government, civil society, youth and vulnerable populations.

This project would result in network recommendations, local and international events, future research plans and more.

Prof. Jerome Amir Singh, SAYAS (South Africa)

Emphasising the need for credible and fast science advice during crises, this project focuses on delivering effective and correct information to the public. It highlights the importance of public trust and fighting misinformation. It also supports collaboration through regional bodies.

Technical toolkits, scientific articles and advice pieces are some of the outputs from this research.

Prof. Peter Mugyenyi, Uganda National Academy of Sciences (Uganda)

This project aims to guide decision making under uncertainty. By using case studies to inform best practices, the guide will focus on mental health, science communication and public trust.

This will result in a detail guide, ‘The pandemic playbook’ being created which includes data collection methods, cultural transmission insights and future action plans.

Dr. Renee Street, MRC (South Africa)

This project would focus on building the science-policy interface across Africa by developing an online portal to track COVID-19 research. Work will be completed with the NASAC to strengthen national science academies’ advisory roles and will target 28 national academies for capacity enhancement.

In summary

These COVID-19 science advice projects collectively aim to enhance Africa’s response to current and future public health emergencies through informed, collaborative, and trusted scientific input.