Transforming Africa

This book is a much-needed intervention that finally moves Africa's innovation debate beyond rhetoric. It offers a grounded yet bold agenda that challenges the continent to confront hard truths: our innovation deficit is not a matter of missing strategies — we've had plenty — but of systemic inertia, weak implementation, and fragmented ecosystems. What sets this volume apart is its clear rejection of techno-fixes and donor-led models in favour of a more holistic, indigenous, and context-sensitive innovation paradigm. The contributions highlight the need for innovation not just in laboratories but across our governance systems, educational models, food systems, and development finance. It insists, rightly, that innovation is a societal project — and that the arts, informal sectors, and local knowledge are just as vital as advanced tech. This is a rare example of scholarship that is analytically rigorous, policy-relevant, and unafraid to ask difficult questions. I hope it finds its way into the hands of those willing to drive Africa's transformation with the urgency and imagination it demands.

-- Carlos Lopes, Professor, Nelson Mandela School, University of Cape Town; Chair of the African Climate Foundation Board; Former Executive Secretary, Economic Commission for Africa

Innovation is not a luxury; it is a necessity for Africa’s future. Let this book be a rallying point for all who believe in Africa’s promise. I commend it to everyone committed to building an Africa that is not only self-reliant, but also a source of inspiration and progress for the world.

-- Pedro de Verona Rodrigues Pires, Founding Prime Minister & Former President of the Republic of Cabo Verde and Mo Ibrahim Laureate 2011

Africa is faced with unprecedented opportunities—but realizing them requires a bold, inclusive innovation agenda. This book argues for a holistic, ecosystem-based approach that empowers diverse stakeholders and integrates multiple knowledge systems. I commend the editors of Transforming Africa for this vital call to action.

-- Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, PhD, President of the Republic of Mauritius (2015-2018)

This book makes a compelling case for systemic, inclusive innovation as the foundation of Africa's STRUCTURAL transformation. By uniting indigenous knowledge with modern science, empowering women and youth, and promoting regional collaboration and INCLUSIVE governance, it outlines a bold AND REALISTIC path forward. Its call to build strong innovation ecosystems—where government, business, academia, and civil society work together AND TRUST EACH OTHER is timely and vital. A must-read for POLICY MAKERS AND anyone committed to shaping Africa's future.

-- Dr Ibrahim Assane Mayaki, Former Prime Minister of Niger; Former CEO NPCA and AUDA-NEPAD; African Union Special Envoy on Food Systems

Innovation is not a luxury for Africa: it is a necessity. It is the continent's most powerful lever for inclusive and sustainable development. This book highlights compelling case studies that demonstrate how systemic innovation can unleash Africa's full potential. With its practical insights and inspiring stories, it is an essential read for anyone determined to drive social impact and economic transformation. I wholeheartedly recommend it to leaders and changemakers committed to shaping Africa's future.

-- Élisabeth Moreno, Chairwoman Ring Capital and Ring Africa; Former Minister Delegate for Gender Equality, Diversity and Equal Opportunities, France; Former vice-president and managing director of Hewlett-Packard for Africa

Transforming Africa is a timely and inspirational call to action for all stakeholders involved in Africa’s development journey. It positions innovation at the centre of efforts to solve real, everyday problems – from agriculture and health to education and governance. The book’s call to integrate indigenous knowledge and traditional know-how with modern technologies, recognises the strategic necessity of hybrid solutions for creating real value and resilience. The African scholars and practitioners in this book do not shy away from identifying persistent policy challenges and implementation gaps and advocate for bold, systemic transformation that challenges conventional assumptions and fosters new forms of leadership. This book is an important piece in Africa’s inclusive growth and self-reliance puzzle.

-- H.E. Ambassador Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, African Union Commissi