Shows
Africa Science FocusSpace innovation in Africa tackling local problemsAfrica's space sector, while valued at US$22.64 billion in 2024, is still in its early stages—but scientists say it holds significant promise for addressing some of the continent’s development issues.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki explores how space research and innovation are being used across the continent.Mary Makuate, a researcher at Cameroon’s Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation, shares insights from her experience using satellite data to develop digital maps for the humanitarian response to the 2023 earthquake in Morocco.Susan Murabana, CEO of The Travelling Telesc...2025-04-2930 minAfrica Science FocusHow language barriers are impeding science learningLanguage 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 complex concepts are often difficult to understand in unfamiliar languages.In our first podcast episode of 2025, our reporter, Michael Kaloki, explores the importance of teaching science in local languages in Africa where multiple indigenous languages are spoken.2025-01-2430 minAfrica Science FocusScientists harness gene editing for climate-resilient wheatBy 2030, Africa will account for 53 per cent of the world's population living in hunger, primarily due to climate change and worsening food shortages, the UN warns.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki investigates how scientists are tackling the region’s food crisis by exploring gene editing to develop climate-resilient crops, particularly wheat. Cristobal Uauy, a project leader in crop genetics at the John Innes Centre in the UK, tells us how gene editing can be used to strengthen wheat's resistance to diseases and increase its nutritional value.Godwin Mac...2024-11-1635 minAfrica Science FocusWhy researchers should drop the jargon and speak outBy communicating their research, scientists can influence policy and drive meaningful change in society. Findings from scientific research have the power to address pressing challenges in society, from climate change to disease outbreaks.But what happens when important discoveries from these studies are left to gather dust in libraries or academic journals?In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African scientists and researchers about the need for better communication of scientific research. Jackie Opara-Fatoye, a science journalist and deputy coordinator at SciDevNet, Sub-Saharan Africa, h...2024-10-3030 minAfrica Science FocusInclusive policies key to expanding women’s tech accessSystemic barriers and poor support structures are stifling the progress of women in STEMUnderrepresentation of women in science and technology is limiting the continent's access to different perspectives and innovation, educators in the sector tell Africa Science Focus.Women account for only 20 per cent of women in science and engineering in Africa and 32 per cent of research and development scientists, according to research by the UN Economic Commission for Africa.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki talks to women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM...2024-10-0229 minAfrica Science FocusReviving Africa's indigenous science knowledgeAfrica's indigenous knowledge holds untapped potential for scientific innovation.In a continent with so many different cultures and traditions, indigenous knowledge has enormous potential to inform and strengthen scientific research. However, the legacy of colonialism has pushed African indigenous science knowledge to the fringes.In this episode of African Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African scientists and researchers about the importance of incorporating local knowledge in science communication.Ayodele Ibiyemi, a US-based Nigerian culture researcher, notes that while colonial systems affected Africa’s culture and displaced its science knowledge, th...2024-08-0929 minAfrica Science FocusNigerian farmers, scientists divided over GM maizeThe Nigerian government's approval earlier this year of transgenic insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties, also known as TELA maize, has sparked intense debate among farmers, scientists, and the general public.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Jayne Augoye hears out the diverse perspectives on the introduction of TELA maize, a genetically modified (GM) crop, which proponents say will contribute to food and nutrition security.Samuel Agele, professor and researcher in plant ecophysiology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, emphasised the need for public education and the regulation of genetically modified crops in...2024-07-1830 minAfrica Science FocusCitizen science paves the way to policyCitizen science educates the public about science and enhances research for evidence-driven policiesIn this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African scientists who discuss the important role citizen science plays in scientific research. Peter Elias, a geography professor in Nigeria, says communities use storytelling and folklore to document their experiences, providing valuable supplementary knowledge to scientific research.Jaqueline Goldin, a professor of anthropology in South Africa, says a major challenge she faced in her citizen science project was gaining the trust of farmers, but she s...2024-07-1430 minAfrica Science FocusAnti-HIV vagina ring limited by cost, accessThe dapivirine vaginal ring holds promise in the fight against HIV. But for the young women in Africa who need it most, access remains a major challenge. Women aged 15 to 24 are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV infection due to a complex web of factors, including social, cultural, and economic forces. The silicone ring reduces their risk of infection by continually releasing the antiretroviral dapivirine into the vagina. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Bunmi Yekini looks at issues such as access to the ring and the impact the ring has in countries that...2024-06-2830 minAfrica Science FocusScience informed policy could unlock progress in AfricaEffective policymaking in Africa requires collaboration between scientists and policymakers. But, despite the potential for science to drive sustainable development, the relationship between these two groups can be underwhelming. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, scientists highlight the need for scientists and policymakers to work together to create evidence-based policies to solve problems and share successful examples of scientific advisory.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Africa Science Focus is produced by...2024-06-2130 minAfrica Science FocusCan mini grids solve Nigeria’s electricity problems?In this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporters Ogechi Ekeanyanwu and Titilope Fadare speak to researchers who highlight Nigeria's energy access challenges and the potential of mini grids to address them.Temilade Sesan, energy researcher and consultant, and Ewah Ileri, executive director of the International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development, a Nigerian think tank, explain what mini grids are and discuss ways to overcome regulatory hurdles to deliver sustainable energy solutions. Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station. This piece was pr...2024-06-1030 minAfrica Science FocusDrones deliver vaccines to the ‘last mile’Poor road networks in Africa make it difficult to transport medical supplies and samples to remote communities, hindering access to healthcare. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Halima Athumani explores how drone technology can bridge this gap and serve the so-called “last mile”. She speaks with leaders of two drone companies, Kenya Flying Labs and VillageReach, about their efforts to enhance Africa's health infrastructure through drone technology. Henry Chimtengo, senior medical assistant at Malombe Health Centre in Malawi’s Mangochi district, explains how drones assisted the country’s polio vaccination drive. Do you...2024-05-3030 minAfrica Science FocusMalawi and Mozambique combat wild poliovirusAfter Africa achieved wild poliovirus-free status in 2020, the region faced a setback with outbreaks recurring in Mozambique and Malawi in 2022. However, a swift global response by countries and health organisations, including large-scale vaccination campaigns reaching 50 million children across five nations, culminated in a recommendation this month by the independent Poliovirus Outbreak Response Assessment (OBRA) to declare the end of the wild poliovirus type 1 outbreaks in Southern Africa.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Justice Baidoo speaks to public health experts to uncover the strategies Southern African countries adopted to fight the disease.2024-05-2130 minAfrica Science FocusGhana reduces malaria deaths by 90 per centGhana's fight against malaria has seen a major breakthrough with a 90 per cent reduction in malaria mortality since 2012.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Justice Baidoo speaks to health authorities in Ghana, who attribute this progress to a national strategy and the launch of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine. Mother-of-three Martha Obeng says her six-month-old son is “strong and very healthy” after receiving the vaccination.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net Africa Science Focus is pro...2024-05-1030 minAfrica Science FocusWhy ethics matters in scienceIn this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African researchers on the importance of ethics in science. Jerome Singh, an adjunct professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Canada, talks about the need to prioritise human wellbeing during science experiments, while Emma Ruttkamp-Bloem, chair of UNESCO’s World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology, highlights the ethical considerations needed in the production of artificial intelligence technologies.Alloy Ihuah, from the Department of Philosophy, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria, evaluates the effects of we...2024-05-0230 minAfrica Science FocusCan drones and AI fly Africa to the next level?Technology professionals explore how artificial intelligence and drones can transform industries in Africa. In this Africa Science Focus episode, reporter Michael Kaloki discusses the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI), drone technology, and data analytics with information technology professionals. Dennis Mutua, managing director of Geo-Cart,a Kenya-based surveying and drones solution company, says AI and drones could improve agriculture, engineering, and resource management. AI and blockchain could shape the future of African businesses, says Bright Mawudor, regional lead at blockchain specialists Crystal Intelligence. We also hear from Nancy Kinyua, head of...2024-04-2930 minAfrica Science FocusReviving use of local seeds in African farmingGrowing more local seeds in Africa can solve the region’s food insecurity and climate problems.Local crops and seeds are often neglected in Africa, despite their nutritional and environmental benefits, research has shown.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, Method Gundidza, director of the EarthLore Foundation, explains to reporter Elna Schütz the legacy of colonialism on these native species. Siphiwe Sithole, a farmer and managing director at African Marmalade, an agribusiness that specialises in African crops, highlights the significance of indigenous seeds on the continent. Using resea...2024-04-2230 minAfrica Science FocusUnwrapping Africa’s food packaging problemsIn this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporter Michael Kaloki pulls apart the packaging challenges that threaten food security in East Africa.We speak to Zippy Shiyoya, director at the Institute of Packaging Professionals Kenya, who highlights challenges faced by the industry, such as high production costs and shortages of materials that limit access to safe packaging.Michael Humble, a Kenyan biochemist, explains how there is a need to understand the physical and chemical properties of food packaging to prevent spoiling and contamination.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This podcast was supported by the...2024-04-0530 minAfrica Science FocusWhy women in Sub-Saharan Africa battle fibroidsWomen in Sub-Saharan Africa are highly prone to developing fibroids, a kind of non-cancerous growth in the uterus, according to research. But they often don’t receive the treatment they need, risking major health consequences.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Busola Ajibola speaks to Maureen Umemmuo-Umeakuewulu, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the National Hospital Abuja, Nigeria, who explains why fibroids are prevalent in the region. She discusses the symptoms, treatment options, and recovery tips, including the role of nutrition.We also hear from women dealing with fibroids about their experiences, in the la...2024-04-0230 minAfrica Science FocusTackling maternal mortality in AfricaChildbirth brings forth new life but is a dangerous journey for many women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, over two-thirds of global maternal mortality occurs in the region. In this episode of Africa Science Focus – the second in our series on women’s health – our reporter, Busola Ajibola, speaks to Eli Sukarime, associate professor and honorary consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.He discusses the need to understand the causes of maternal mortality in the region in order to design effective healthcare solutions.Osaretin Okonji, public health researcher at the...2024-03-2230 minAfrica Science FocusTales of success, setbacks and adviceTo commemorate International Women’s Day on 8 March, Africa Science Focus speaks with women leaders in academic science across Africa. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former and first female President of Mauritius and biodiversity scientist, tells our reporter, Michael Kaloki, how to make science more attractive for young women.Quarraisha Abdool Karim, epidemiologist and Pro-Vice Chancellor for African Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, explained how mentorship advanced her career. Lastly, Marie Korsaga, West Africa’s first female astrophysicist and an assistant lecturer at the Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo in Burkina Faso recounted how she is surviving in a ma...2024-03-0730 minAfrica Science FocusCan telemedicine bridge Africa's healthcare divide?In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we examine what role telemedicine could play in plugging Africa’s healthcare gaps. Our reporter, Royal Uche speaks with Abubakar Ibrahim, founder of telemedicine solution provider Medicliq, who tells us how remote methods of healthcare could be instrumental in solving the continent’s health challenges. We also hear from Omolola Salako, public health expert and clinical oncologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, about how such technology can benefit rural and underserved areas. Meanwhile, Joana Eva Dodoo, lecturer in the department of business programmes at the College...2024-02-1630 minAfrica Science FocusBurning e-waste contaminating breast milk in Ghana[ACCRA] Located within Accra’s bustling Agbogbloshie market, Ghana's infamous e-waste dumpsite poses serious health risks to residents and traders.The burning of discarded electronics for valuable materials leads to smoky air that has severe health implications for the community. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Justice Baidoo speaks with Anita Asamoah, a researcher at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, who analysed the breast milk of mothers in this location and found cancer-causing metals.Meanwhile, Mountain Research Institute president Vincent Kyere, suggests some lasting solutions to...2024-02-0229 minAfrica Science FocusNavigating climate challenges for year-round cropsAfrica produces only about four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, but the region — particularly its agriculture sector — bears the brunt of climate change.In this episode, Ogechi Ekeanyanwu and Titilope Fadare find out how smallholder farmers from Kenya and Nigeria ensure they produce crops all year round amid extreme weather conditions. Boaz Waswa, a soil fertility specialist at the Alliance of Bioversity International and International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) based in Kenya, shared some climate-smart strategies that farmers can adopt to build resilience.We also hear from Shalika Vyas, assoc...2024-01-2630 minAfrica Science FocusIgniting a passion for science in African kidsUnlocking the wonders of science in young minds is pivotal for cultivating a generation of critical thinkers and innovators, particularly in Africa.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we look into the challenges and innovative solutions for igniting children's passion for science. Our reporter, Michael Kaloki, speaks to Harun Mbuvi, chair of the Chemistry Department at Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya, who highlights the barriers within Africa’s education system hindering science education for children.Yetunde Oluwatosin, education specialist at UNICEF, provides insights into overcoming obstacles to science education. And Sani Aliyu, a pro...2024-01-1630 minAfrica Science FocusManaging Africa’s water for sustainable agricultureAfrica's water crisis, compounded by climate change, threatens agricultural sustainability and food security. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we delve into actionable strategies for managing water effectively across the continent.Our reporter, Michael Kaloki, speaks to Professor Sylvester Mpandeli, executive manager for water utilization in Agriculture at the Water Research Commission, South Africa, to uncover critical gaps hindering efficient water use in agriculture.Dr. Mathapelo Seopela, a lecturer in the chemical sciences department at the University of Johannesburg, offers practical solutions for communities and leaders to safeguard water quality. Dr...2023-12-2830 minAfrica Science FocusCan science heal Nigeria’s sacred Osun River?The Osun River in south-west Nigeria is a paradox. On one hand, it is revered by those who believe in its spiritual connection to the river goddess Oshun and its healing powers. On the other, mining activities have led to its pollution, affecting the river's water quality.In the first of a two-part series on the Osun River, Africa Science Focus dives into this complex landscape.Our reporter Babatunde Okunola talks with devoted worshippers who remain drawn to the river amid health concerns. Oluseyi Atanda, president of the Traditional Religious Association in Osun state, provides...2023-12-1430 minAfrica Science FocusHPV vaccine push to fight cervical cancer in NigeriaCervical cancer is a deadly disease which claims the lives of thousands of Nigerian women every year. Nigeria is fighting this health menace with the introduction of a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its routine immunisation programme and began a vaccination drive for young girls in October. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Royal Uche speaks to top Nigerian scientists and health experts, Muhammad Habeebu, Ifeoma Okoye and Oyewale Tomori to learn more about the virus, from transmission to prevention, and how it leads to cancer.We also hear from Ahmed Ru...2023-12-0130 minAfrica Science FocusYoung 'techies' tackle development challengesTech solutions, even those created by young people, could tackle development challenges on the continent. In this episode of the Africa Science Focus podcast, reporter Aneta Felix speaks with two young innovators, Olivia Chizaram Obi from Nigeria and Sharon Kemunto from Kenya, who recently participated in a global tech competition.They give us insights into their innovations, and discuss the potential impact on their communities.The podcast also explores the behind-the-scenes journey of competition preparation with parents and mentors. David Jinad, a Nigerian software engineer, tells us how these young innovations ca...2023-11-2330 minAfrica Science FocusEmpowering Africa’s researchersStrengthening research and innovation in Africa can catalyse progress on development issues such as food insecurity, the climate crisis, and poor health systems. In this episode of Africa Science Focus Podcast, our reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with chair holders of the OR Tambo Africa Research Chairs Initiative (ORTARChI) about how technology transfer and collaboration can lead to tangible changes on the ground.We also hear about the food systems research being carried out in Africa and why local cultural norms are an essential consideration. ORTARChI aims to build the capacities of researchers, fund th...2023-11-1630 minAfrica Science FocusNourishing Ugandan families with kitchen gardeningAccording to the 2022 Uganda Demographics Health Survey, around 40 per cent of Ugandan children are underdeveloped as a result of malnutrition.In this Episode of Africa Science Focus we speak to community worker Reuben Kikora who hopes to fight against child malnutrition by promoting kitchen gardening in the Kaborole district of western Uganda’s Tooro region.Our reporter, Michael Kaloki, looks at how communities are being trained to grow vegetables and other small-scale crops, to help feed their families and generate extra income.Bernard Bwambale, who oversees food systems and nutrition programmes in the re...2023-11-1030 minAfrica Science FocusPreparing Africa for future pandemicsThe health crises faced by Africa in the last decade have highlighted the clear need for improved healthcare systems and pandemic preparedness. Deadly disease outbreaks, such as the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa and the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore the urgency for stronger epidemic intelligence and response mechanisms.In this episode of our Africa Science Focus Podcast, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with Jean Ngamba and Professor Lorena Núñez Carrasco, recipients of the COVID-19 Africa Rapid Grant Fund. They share their research on potential responses that Africa could employ in the event of a future pandemic or he...2023-11-0230 minAfrica Science FocusAdvancing Africa’s sexual and reproductive health servicesAccess to sexual and reproductive health services is a human right, but for millions of women and girls in Sub-Saharan Africa it is lacking. Consequently, the region has the highest maternal mortality rate in the world with 545 deaths for every 100,000 live births, according to the United Nations children’s agency UNICEF.In this episode of our Science Explained series, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with Tlaleng Mofokeng, the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to health. She talks about what needs to be done to change the cultural norms in communities where abortions are stigmatised, to avoid putting th...2023-10-2730 minAfrica Science FocusAdvancing Africa’s sexual and reproductive health servicesAccess to sexual and reproductive health services is a human right, but for millions of women and girls in Sub-Saharan Africa it is lacking. Consequently, the region has the highest maternal mortality rate in the world with 545 deaths for every 100,000 live births, according to the United Nations children’s agency UNICEF.In this episode of our Science Explained series, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with Tlaleng Mofokeng, the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to health. She talks about what needs to be done to change the cultural norms in communities where abortions are stigmatised, to avoid putting th...2023-10-2630 minAfrica Science FocusNigeria's breast milk bank a lifeline for babiesBreast milk is the ideal food for infants as it provides them with the nutrients and antibodies they need to thrive. But Nigeria’s breastfeeding rate stands at a meagre 29 per cent for a myriad of reasons including poor support for breastfeeding mothers and medical conditions. In this episode of our African Changemakers series, Africa Science Focus speaks with Chinny Obinwanne, founder of the Milk Booster breastfeeding company and Nigeria’s first milk bank, about the potential of breast milk banks to help address these challenges and improve the health and well-being of infants. We also s...2023-10-2030 minAfrica Science FocusAfrica's readies for new malaria vaccinesWith the rollout of two new malaria vaccines on the horizon in Africa, the outlook for fighting the disease looks optimistic. But is it enough?In this episode of our Africa Science Focus Science Explained series, Michael Charles, head of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, tells us why he believes Africa must lead the drive to end the disease. Charles hails the “groundbreaking” latest WHO-recommended malaria vaccine, R21/Matrix M, but stresses the need to keep up other malaria control measures too.We also hear from Chika Offor, CEO of the Vaccine Network for Dise...2023-10-1230 minAfrica Science FocusBridging South Africa’s maths language gapIn this episode of Africa Science Focus, maths professor Jill Adler, recipient of the 2023 National Research Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award, sheds light on the education system of South Africa’s former apartheid government, which was designed to disadvantage black students. She talks to us about her work to improve the teaching of mathematics in indigenous South African languages and discusses the importance of considering students’ different language needs. We also speak to James Meiring, director of reviews and evaluations at South Africa’s National Research Foundation, who tells us that Adler's work has helped to disrupt...2023-10-0530 minAfrica Science FocusHow AI can shape a brighter future for AfricaArtificial intelligence is ubiquitous and will impact the world in ways we can only imagine. In Africa, it has the potential to transform many aspects of daily life, from healthcare and agriculture to education and finance.In this episode of the podcast Africa Science Focus, we speak to Barbara Glover, programme officer at the African Union Panel on Emerging Technologies, about the potential of AI to benefit Africa, as well as the possible pitfalls. We also hear from Abake Adenle, chief executive officer of Ajala, a start-up that develops speech technologies for African languages.2023-09-2830 minAfrica Science FocusNetwork bridges healthcare gaps in NigeriaIn this episode of Africa Science Focus, we hear about the Atayese Health Network, which is confronting the prevailing issues of healthcare inaccessibility and escalating costs.Our reporter, Royal Uche, speaks to Atayese founder Adeolu Olusodo, who tells us that the organisation is working to making healthcare available and affordable for all, particularly in rural communities in Nigeria’s South West region.Uche also speaks to healthcare workers who shed light on the challenges plaguing the healthcare sector in Nigeria. ------------------------------------------------This project was funded by the European Journalism Centre...2023-09-2230 minAfrica Science FocusAntiretrovirals in chicken feedIn this first episode of the ‘Science Explained’ series by Africa Science Focus, we dive into a study by Makerere University that uncovered traces of the antiretroviral (ARV) drug Efavirenz, used for HIV/AIDS treatment, in chicken feed in Uganda. Our reporter, Halima Athumani, also spoke with lead researcher, Hussein Oria, who let us know the gravity of using unapproved drugs in animal feed. We also investigate the motivations of poultry farmers, how they source ARVs, and shed light on the troubling implications. ------------------------------------------------Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our po...2023-09-1330 min