The Status of Innovation in Africa’s Development Strategy: Where should Science and Technology Fit in?

This chapter sets out the importance of knowledge systems in promoting economic development in African countries with special reference to innovation. Using published data from the last 20 years and a major DFID aid programme it argues that most recent investment in African technology development is still unduly biased towards formal science. What is lacking at policy level is any meaningful interaction between science and economic production on the ground. The danger is therefore a continuation of African underdevelopment with profound likely consequences for incomes and employment across the continent