Lessons from Research-Based Public-Private Partnerships in Africa: What Science Granting Councils Can Learn

This report explores how science and innovation in Africa can benefit from stronger public-private partnerships.

The study was led by experts from across Africa and Europe – including UNU-MERIT and African Development Bank – and funded through the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI). It focuses on public-private partnerships (PPPs), long-term collaborations between the public and private sectors that work together to develop new technologies, services, or infrastructure.

What the Report Covers

The authors reviewed:

• Over 50 academic studies on public-private partnerships
• Interviews with leaders from 12 African Science Granting Councils (SGCs)

Together, these sources helped them identify the main challenges that African countries face when implementing PPPs, especially in science, technology, and innovation (STI).

Key Findings on Public-Private Partnerships

The report outlines several common obstacles to successful PPPs in Africa:

• Limited funding options: Local firms struggle to access affordable loans, while over-reliance on foreign donors can skew national priorities.
• Inexperience in managing partnerships: Many public institutions lack the skills needed to select partners, negotiate contracts, or manage projects effectively.
• Weak local industries and skills: The shortage of trained workers and reliable local businesses often leads to dependence on foreign companies.
• Poor stakeholder engagement: Limited communication and transparency between partners cause mistrust and missed opportunities.
• Ineffective regulations: Complex or missing legal frameworks make it hard to hold partners accountable and manage risks.

Recommendations for SGCs

To help improve public-private partnerships in Africa, the report recommends that Science Granting Councils:

• Build internal capacity to manage and support PPPs
• Improve collaboration with ministries, universities, and businesses
• Push for better legal and financial frameworks
• Invest in training and mentorship for local innovators