Higher Education in Africa: Our continent needs science, not aid

The founder of Africa's first drug discovery and development centre explains why scientific research is key to unlocking the continent's potential

The continent of Africa suffers a crippling disease burden, which continues to choke economic growth in addition to causing high morbidity and mortality. It is therefore vital for Africans to contribute to finding solutions to their health problems. The discovery and development of new medicines in Africa led by Africans is essential to that.

Long-term sustainable provision of new affordable medicines in Africa can only be ensured through committed investments in research and development (R&D) through African-led local and international public-private partnerships so that risks, and not just benefits, are shared. Africa needs science, not aid.