African governments must urgently invest in science and research
by Ameenah Gurib-Fakim from on (#P0K9)
The Mauritian government is offering tax breaks for scientists who move against the brain drain. Policies like this are vital says President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim
Africa will continue to be held back if we do not immediately invest in research and development. African governments who have not met the 1% target pledged at the African Union heads of state summit in 2006 should increase their spending on research.
Pledges have been made, but in most cases they haven't been translated into concrete actions. This is partly because African governments struggle with conflicting priorities such as preventing disease outbreaks and providing education and proper sanitation.
