Investing in Africa's scientific future

Abstract

Africa bears a disproportionate burden of infectious diseases, accounting for a substantial percentage of global cases. Malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, cholera, Ebola, Lassa fever, and other tropical diseases, such as dengue and chikungunya, have had a profound impact on morbidity and mortality. Various factors contribute to the higher prevalence and incidence of infectious diseases in Africa, including socioeconomic challenges, limited access to health care, inadequate sanitation and hygiene infrastructure, climate-related factors, and endemicity of certain diseases in specific regions. A skilled workforce is crucial to addressing these challenges. Unfortunately, many countries in Africa often lack the required resources, and aspiring scientists frequently seek educational and career opportunities abroad, leading to a substantial loss of talent and expertise from the continent. This talent migration, referred to as "brain drain," exacerbates the existing training gaps and hampers the sustainability of research within Africa.