Author: AR Managing Editor

Unlocking Africa’s Economic Future: Why Science, Technology, and Innovation Are Key to Sustainable Growth

Illustrative Image: Unlocking Africa’s Economic Future: Why Science, Technology, and Innovation Are Key to Sustainable Growth
Image Source & Credit: World Bank
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Africa stands at a crucial juncture in its development journey. Despite being richly endowed with natural resources and demographic advantages, the continent continues to lag behind in global economic metrics. It accounts for just 3% of the world’s GDP and international trade, despite possessing 60% of the world’s arable land, 30% of its mineral reserves, vast forests, and the youngest population globally. Beneath these disparities lies a deeper, often overlooked truth: the continent’s underinvestment in science, technology, and innovation (STI) has constrained its potential for structural and sectoral economic transformation.

While Africa has historically supplied key resources that fueled the world’s industrial revolutions—from minerals for machinery to rare earth elements powering today’s green technologies—it has not reaped proportional developmental rewards. Instead, Africa remains heavily reliant on the colonial-era development paradigm of raw material extraction, which is not only unsustainable but also perpetuates poverty, aid dependency, and economic fragility. These systemic challenges are exacerbated by fragmented economies, small markets, regulatory bottlenecks, and inadequate infrastructure—all of which deter long-term investment and stifle innovation.

The Role of Science and Technology in Structural Transformation

Structural transformation—the transition from low-productivity sectors (like subsistence agriculture) to high-productivity sectors (such as manufacturing and services)—is the engine of long-term economic growth. However, this transformation is inconceivable without a strong scientific and technological base. At present, Africa contributes a mere 2% to global research output, spends just 1.3% of the world’s research and development (R&D) budget, and generates only 0.1% of the world’s patents. These figures are symptomatic of a deeper malaise: the absence of supportive ecosystems that nurture innovation, commercialize research, and foster entrepreneurial activity rooted in technological advances.

For meaningful progress, African governments must reimagine development by placing science and technology at the heart of national planning. This requires more than just policy statements—it calls for deliberate and sustained investment in scientific infrastructure, research institutions, and innovation hubs. An enabling environment is needed—one that promotes competition, rewards creativity, and supports risk-taking. Governments must dismantle regulatory hurdles, fight corruption, and incentivize the private sector to co-invest in R&D alongside public institutions.

Reversing the Brain Drain: Building a Talent-Retaining Ecosystem

A critical aspect of transforming Africa’s innovation landscape involves addressing the chronic “brain drain” that sees top talent leaving the continent in search of better research environments. The best-trained scientists and engineers thrive in settings where they can access state-of-the-art equipment, reliable utilities, and consistent funding—and, importantly, collaborate with peers who challenge and inspire them.

To stem this exodus, Africa must invest in a world-class education and research ecosystem that not only retains its brightest minds but also attracts global talent. Countries like South Africa are already setting a precedent with a robust higher education system, cutting-edge research institutions, and global scientific collaborations. This model should be expanded continent-wide, creating regional centers of excellence that act as magnets for innovation and knowledge exchange.

Unlocking Growth in Manufacturing and Beyond

One of the most promising sectors for STI-driven growth is manufacturing. The African manufacturing sector is poised for a significant boom, with business-to-business spending projected to reach $1 trillion by 2050. However, this potential can only be unlocked through technological innovation, industrial automation, and skilled labor. Investments in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and vocational training are therefore essential to building a competitive workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern industry.

Moreover, innovation extends beyond manufacturing. Sectors such as agriculture, health, energy, and information technology stand to benefit enormously from scientific breakthroughs and digital transformation. For instance, precision agriculture and biotechnology can revolutionize food systems; AI-powered diagnostics can transform healthcare delivery; and renewable energy technologies can address persistent power deficits.

Long-Term Vision: Embedding Scientific Culture in Policy and Society

True transformation demands a cultural shift—one that elevates science and innovation from peripheral interests to central pillars of national policy. This means embedding scientific thinking into governance, education, and industrial strategies. Policymakers must understand that STI is not a luxury or a donor-driven project but a strategic imperative for development, resilience, and sovereignty.

This vision requires a long-term commitment that transcends political cycles. It calls for durable partnerships among academia, government, and the private sector—a tripartite collaboration that can fund innovation, scale up technologies, and align research agendas with developmental priorities. Such synergies are particularly critical in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which offers unprecedented opportunities to harmonize standards, expand markets, and accelerate regional innovation.

Conclusion: A New Development Paradigm

Africa’s pathway to prosperity will not be paved by resource extraction or short-term aid—it will be forged by knowledge, innovation, and self-reliance. A new development paradigm rooted in science, technology, and human capital is essential not only for economic growth but also for achieving inclusive welfare, environmental sustainability, and global competitiveness.

The time to act is now. By investing in science and technology, Africa can unlock the latent potential of its people and resources, leapfrog into the knowledge economy, and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.

July 2025
Why Africa Needs Fewer Entrepreneurs and More Large Firms for Sustainable Economic Growth
Illustrative Image: Why Africa Needs Fewer Entrepreneurs and More Large Firms for Sustainable Economic Growth
Image Source & Credit: Business Focus
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Contrary to popular belief, Africa’s path to economic prosperity may not lie in promoting more entrepreneurship. According to a new study led by Professor Alex Coad of Waseda Business School, Japan, what the continent truly lacks is not entrepreneurial spirit—but large, productive firms capable of driving structural economic transformation.

Africa is often celebrated for its vibrant entrepreneurial culture. In fact, it has the highest rate of entrepreneurship in the world, with many individuals self-employed out of necessity rather than opportunity. However, this high rate of informal, small-scale entrepreneurship has not translated into significant economic growth. In fact, data shows that higher self-employment rates often correlate with lower GDP per capita. This disconnect raises a fundamental question: is encouraging more entrepreneurship really the right policy approach for Africa?

To answer this, a team of researchers—including Dr. Clemens Domnick and Dr. Pietro Santoleri of the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, and Assistant Professor Stjepan Srhoj from the University of Split, Croatia—collaborated with Professor Coad to critically assess the relevance of the widely-used Entrepreneurial Ecosystems (EE) approach in Africa. Their findings, published in The Journal of Technology Transfer on May 27, 2025, challenge current development strategies that prioritize entrepreneurship above all else.

Rethinking the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Approach

The EE framework focuses on creating supportive conditions for entrepreneurship by improving infrastructure, access to finance, regulatory environments, and skills training. While useful in many contexts, the researchers argue that this model is ill-suited to Africa’s unique economic realities. It tends to favor small businesses and self-employment, discourage direct government intervention, de-emphasize export orientation, and largely ignore the role of multinational corporations (MNCs) and foreign direct investment (FDI).

This contrasts sharply with the models used by many East and Southeast Asian nations, which successfully transformed their economies over recent decades. Countries like South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia achieved rapid industrialization by focusing on building large domestic firms, attracting FDI, exporting advanced goods, and maintaining strong state-led industrial policies. These nations did not rely on mass entrepreneurship but on structured, state-supported corporate growth.

The study suggests that Africa can adapt lessons from these regions rather than attempt to copy them directly. Policies that emphasize firm scaling, government support, and international market integration could be far more effective for Africa’s long-term development than continuing to promote widespread, low-productivity entrepreneurship.

Schumpeterian Growth Theory and Technological Distance

The research also draws from Schumpeterian growth theory, which posits that countries should design growth policies based on their proximity to the global technological frontier. For technologically advanced countries near the frontier, innovation and research are key drivers of growth. But for countries farther from the frontier—like many in Sub-Saharan Africa—adopting and adapting existing technologies offers a faster and more efficient path to development.

Currently, Africa lags significantly in economic complexity and technological advancement. Between 2020 and 2023, the continent attracted less than 1% of global venture capital investment and remains near the bottom of global innovation indices. This makes it clear that the continent is not in a position to grow through innovation-driven entrepreneurship alone. Instead, what’s needed is an investment-led strategy that builds productive capacity through larger firms, industrial clusters, and better integration into global value chains.

The Missing Middle: Large Firms and Development

One of the most significant findings from the study is that Africa lacks a critical mass of large and medium-sized enterprises. Most economic activity is concentrated in small, informal businesses that are unable to scale or increase productivity. The so-called “missing middle” in African economies limits the continent’s ability to generate formal jobs, expand exports, or achieve structural transformation.

Large firms play a pivotal role in economies by:
- Creating formal employment opportunities at scale
- Enhancing productivity through capital investment and technological adoption
- Serving as anchors for supply chains that support smaller businesses
- Competing globally and driving foreign exchange earnings
In African countries, the dominance of small firms and the scarcity of larger enterprises has created an economic bottleneck. According to Professor Coad, Africa is unique in that it ranks last globally in terms of economic development but first in terms of entrepreneurship rates. This paradox indicates that the high rate of necessity-driven entrepreneurship may reflect economic underdevelopment, not resilience or innovation.

“Boosting entrepreneurship further seems like a step in the wrong direction,” Coad asserts. “The real bottleneck is the lack of large firms. Africa should focus on reducing total entrepreneurship rates and nurturing the development of large, productive firms.”

Implications for Policymakers

This study provides a much-needed critique of prevailing economic development models in Africa. It challenges policymakers, international donors, and development agencies to reconsider their heavy emphasis on entrepreneurship promotion as a panacea for underdevelopment.

Instead, a shift toward industrial policy, infrastructure development, skills upgrading, and targeted support for firm growth—especially in strategic sectors—may yield more sustainable and inclusive outcomes. Policies that enable small firms to grow into medium and large enterprises should be prioritized, alongside measures that attract FDI and foster regional integration.

In sum, Africa’s economic future may not rest on producing more entrepreneurs, but rather on building the institutions, infrastructure, and industrial capacity necessary to support large-scale, high-productivity firms that can transform the continent’s development trajectory.
July 2025
Streamflow Sensitivity in Ethiopia’s Upper Blue Nile River Basin: Human Land Use Changes Outweigh Climate Impacts
Illustrative Image: Streamflow Sensitivity in Ethiopia’s Upper Blue Nile River Basin: Human Land Use Changes Outweigh Climate Impacts
Image Source & Credit: Getty Images
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A study by Abebe et al. (2024) titled “Attribution and Streamflow Sensitivity Analysis in the Upper Blue Nile River Basin Using a Top-down Modeling Framework” published in Abyssinia Journal of Engineering and Computing, reveals that streamflow increased in 68% of the sub-watersheds, with land surface changes—such as deforestation, soil degradation, and urbanization—exerting a stronger influence on runoff than climate variability.

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Land use changes—more than climate variability—are the primary drivers of streamflow increases across 68% of Upper Blue Nile sub-watersheds.
– Abebe et al. 2024

This study explores how streamflow in Ethiopia’s Upper Blue Nile River Basin (UBNRB) responds to both climatic variations and changes in watershed characteristics. Utilizing a top-down modelling approach that integrates the Budyko framework with elasticity analysis, the research quantifies streamflow sensitivity and attributes changes to either climatic or land surface factors. The UBNRB, located in northwestern Ethiopia, is a crucial water source, contributing over 60% of the total Nile River flow. It plays a vital role in regional agriculture, water supply, and hydroelectric power. The basin is predominantly humid, with an aridity index ranging from 0.6 to 1.1.

To assess the drivers of streamflow changes, the study uses the Budyko framework—which examines the balance between water availability (precipitation) and energy availability (potential evapotranspiration)—alongside elasticity analysis to measure how responsive runoff is to variations in precipitation, evapotranspiration, and watershed conditions. The WEP hydrological model is employed to simulate streamflow and evapotranspiration, while Pettitt’s test identifies statistically significant shifts in streamflow between a base period (1983–1998) and a change period (1999–2018). Findings reveal that streamflow increased in 68% of the sub-watersheds, with land surface changes—such as deforestation, soil degradation, and urbanization—exerting a stronger influence on runoff than climate variability. While precipitation exhibited a slight upward trend, changes in potential evapotranspiration were minimal. Streamflow elasticity to precipitation was high (ranging from 0.6 to 0.9), indicating that even small changes in rainfall could lead to substantial changes in runoff.

The eastern, southern, and northwestern parts of the basin experienced the most significant hydrological changes, highlighting the urgent need for localized water resource management. The study concludes that human-induced alterations in watershed characteristics can impact streamflow more profoundly than climate change alone, underscoring the importance of sustainable land-use planning to safeguard water resources in the UBNRB.

How the Study was Conducted

The study investigated streamflow variations in Ethiopia’s Upper Blue Nile River Basin (UBNRB), a region in northwestern Ethiopia that contributes over 60% of the Nile River’s annual flow. Researchers employed a top-down modeling approach to assess hydrological changes across 95 sub-basins under predominantly humid conditions (aridity index: 0.6–1.1).

To disentangle the impacts of climate and watershed characteristics on runoff, the Budyko framework was applied, linking precipitation and potential evapotranspiration to estimate water balance. This was complemented by elasticity analysis, which quantified streamflow sensitivity to changes in precipitation, evapotranspiration, land use, soil type, and vegetation.

Streamflow simulation and validation were conducted using the distributed Water and Energy Processes (WEP) model. Calibration and validation spanned 1992–2004 and 2005–2014, respectively, using data from the Kessie and El-Diem gauging stations. Model performance was evaluated using Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE), Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), and Percent Bias (PBIAS).

Change-point detection in streamflow patterns was carried out using Pettitt’s test, which identified two periods: a base period (1983–1998) and a change period (1999–2018). Supporting datasets included the HYDRO1k Digital Elevation Model (USGS), ENACTS climate data (National Meteorology Agency of Ethiopia), NASA/USGS land cover data, FAO soil information, and streamflow records from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy.

What the Authors Found

The authors found that changes in watershed characteristics—such as land use, vegetation cover, and human activities—had a greater impact on streamflow dynamics in the Upper Blue Nile River Basin than climatic factors like precipitation or temperature.

Why is this important

Securing Water for Millions: The Upper Blue Nile River Basin contributes over 60% of the Nile’s flow, making it critical for water access in Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Understanding streamflow shifts supports better management of agriculture, irrigation, and flood risks.

Distinguishing Climate vs. Human Impact: By separating the effects of climate variability from human-induced watershed changes, the study highlights where targeted land use reforms or conservation strategies are more effective than relying solely on climate-based solutions.

Localized Watershed Insights: Analyzing 95 individual sub-watersheds reveals region-specific hydrological patterns, allowing for tailored water management strategies and smarter infrastructure investment in high-priority zones.

Robust Planning Tools: Using the Budyko framework and elasticity analysis, the study provides practical tools for predicting water availability and guiding evidence-based policy and engineering interventions.

Future-Ready Policy Guidance: Vulnerable regions like the Eastern and Southern UBNRB require urgent focus. The findings help governments and stakeholders plan for climate resilience and ecosystem protection.

What the Authors Recommended
- Focus on controlling land use changes—such as deforestation and poor agricultural practices—through afforestation, soil conservation, and sustainable land management, as these factors have a stronger impact on streamflow than climate variability.
- Prioritize water monitoring and strategic interventions in the Eastern and Southern headwaters and Northwestern lowlands, where streamflow changes were most pronounced.
- Develop region-specific management plans based on the unique hydrological behavior of each watershed instead of applying uniform policies across the entire basin.
- Incorporate models like the Budyko framework and elasticity analysis into national water policy to improve forecasting, decision-making, and resource allocation.
- Anticipate the effects of urbanization, agriculture, and infrastructure on water systems, and enforce land-use regulations to maintain basin stability.
In conclusion, the study underscores the dominant role of human-induced land surface changes over climate variability in shaping streamflow patterns in the Upper Blue Nile River Basin. By integrating robust analytical tools like the Budyko framework and elasticity analysis, the research offers critical insights for policymakers and water managers to implement targeted, region-specific strategies that promote sustainable land use and safeguard water security across this vital transboundary watershed.
July 2025
Climatic and Soil Factors Shaping Cotton Production in Ethiopia: Insights from Metema and Amibara for Sustainable Yield and Fiber Quality
Illustrative Image: Climatic and Soil Factors Shaping Cotton Production in Ethiopia: Insights from Metema and Amibara for Sustainable Yield and Fiber Quality
Image Source & Credit: Solidaridad Networks
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A study by Worku et al. (2024) titled “Analyze Climatic and Edaphic Factors for Ethiopia Cotton Production and Quality” published in Abyssinia Journal of Engineering and Computing reveals that Ethiopia currently cultivates only about 3% of its potential, leading to continued reliance on cotton imports to meet domestic textile industry demand.

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Climatic conditions and soil health are key drivers of cotton yield and fiber quality in Ethiopia, highlighting vast untapped potential.
– Worku et al. 2024

This study investigates how climatic and edaphic (soil-related) factors impact cotton production and fiber quality in Ethiopia, focusing specifically on Metema in the Amhara region and Amibara in the Afar region—two of the country’s most significant cotton-growing areas. Climate emerged as a central factor in determining both cotton yield and fiber characteristics. Optimal temperature ranges—particularly moderate warmth between 20°C and 30°C during germination—were found to enhance plant productivity. While heat during seedling and blooming stages can be beneficial when coupled with sufficient rainfall, extreme temperatures combined with high evaporation rates often induce water stress, disrupting boll formation and reducing yield.

Rainfall patterns further influence cotton development. Adequate precipitation during the vegetative and flowering stages supports growth and boosts yield, but excessive rain during fiber maturation and harvest periods can diminish both productivity and fiber quality. Additionally, relative humidity and seasonal moisture balance play a vital role: dry air accelerates plant stress, affecting growth and fiber development.

Soil characteristics also significantly shape cotton outcomes, particularly fiber traits. The study observed that cotton thrives in soils with pH levels ranging from 5.7 to 6.8, a moderately acidic to neutral range ideal for nutrient uptake. Essential macronutrients—nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—each serve critical roles: nitrogen fosters plant growth and fiber maturity; phosphorus enhances structural compounds and fiber development; and potassium supports water regulation, photosynthesis, and enzymatic functions, all of which contribute to fiber strength and size.

Post-ginning analysis of cotton samples from both regions provided key insights into fiber quality:
- Fibre length, which affects yarn strength and spinability, was generally longer and more uniform in Amibara.
- Short Fiber Content, which contributes to waste and yarn inconsistency, was higher in Metema—possibly due to premature harvesting or less mature crops.
- Trash Content, impacting cleanliness and processing efficiency, was more prevalent in Amibara, likely due to environmental exposure and manual handling.
- Fiber Strength, critical for yarn durability, was highest in Metema’s top-performing farms.
Despite having vast cotton-suitable land, Ethiopia currently cultivates only about 3% of its potential, leading to continued reliance on cotton imports to meet domestic textile industry demand. This reveals significant opportunities to enhance local production by optimizing cultivation in regions with favorable climate and soil conditions. To unlock this potential, Ethiopia must adopt targeted farming strategies and invest in continuous agronomic research. Efforts should prioritize improving crop resilience against climate variability, ensuring consistent fiber quality, and promoting sustainability and long-term economic viability in cotton farming.

How the Study was Conducted

This study was conducted in Metema (Amhara region) and Amibara (Afar region), two prominent cotton-producing areas in Ethiopia. These sites were selected based on their substantial historical cotton output. Detailed geographic data—including latitude, longitude, and proximity to major towns—were recorded for spatial context.

Data Collection

The research utilized both primary and secondary data sources.

Primary data were gathered directly from farmers, ginneries, and spinning mills using semi-structured interviews and questionnaires. These tools enabled flexible exploration of key topics such as cotton yield, farming practices, and farmers’ perceptions of climate impacts.

Secondary data were obtained from agricultural reports, meteorological records (sourced from Bahirdar and Samara branches), and government publications. The dataset spanned the years 2018 to 2022 and included variables such as cotton yield per hectare, minimum and maximum temperatures, rainfall patterns, humidity levels, and soil characteristics.

Sampling Strategy and Farm Selection

Farms were purposefully selected to represent a range of historical production levels—high, medium, and low. In Metema, yield data were compiled from 20 kebeles, while in Amibara, several sites were included to ensure spatial diversity. Soil sampling locations were refined through visual observations and consultations with farmers.

Phenological Stage Analysis

The study focused on cotton’s four key phenological stages:
- Germination (0–30 days)
- Vegetative Growth (30–120 days)
- Flowering and Fruit Formation (60–150 days)
- Maturity and Harvesting (120–180 days)
Climatic and soil variables were matched to each stage to assess their impact on crop development and final yield.

Soil Sampling and Analysis

Soil samples were collected at three depths—20 cm, 40 cm, and 60 cm—using composite sampling techniques and standardized testing protocols. The samples were analyzed for:
- Chemical properties: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium content
- Physical properties: pH levels and water holding capacity
Fiber Quality Assessment

Following ginning, cotton fibers were sampled and tested using industry-standard procedures to evaluate how environmental and soil factors influenced fiber performance. The analyses included:
- Trash content using a Shirley Analyzer
- Fiber strength using a Pressley Strength Tester
- Fiber length and uniformity using a digital fibrograph
This comprehensive methodology enabled a nuanced understanding of how climate and edaphic factors influence both the productivity and quality of cotton in Ethiopia’s major growing regions.

What the Authors Found

The author found that climatic conditions—particularly temperature and rainfall timing—and soil health are the most critical factors influencing cotton yield and fiber quality in Ethiopia, highlighting the potential for significantly improved domestic production through targeted, climate-smart, and soil-optimized farming practices.

Why is this important

Unlocking Ethiopia’s Cotton Potential: Despite having 2.6 million hectares suitable for cotton cultivation, only 3% is currently utilized. Boosting yield and quality could reduce import dependence, increase exports, and create more rural and industrial jobs.

Climate-Smart Farming Is Essential: Cotton is highly sensitive to temperature, rainfall, and soil. With rising climate variability, the study provides critical data to help farmers adapt and make informed planting decisions — shifting away from guesswork to strategy.

Empowering Policy and Practice: The findings serve as a guide for farmers on optimal planting times and locations, and offer policymakers a scientific basis for planning irrigation, land use, and seed distribution to improve national cotton productivity.

Strengthening the Textile Industry: Ethiopia’s textile parks and spinning mills demand high-quality cotton. Enhancing local production supports sustainable, ethical supply chains, improves fabric quality, and boosts competitiveness in global markets.

Contributing to Global Agricultural Science: Beyond Ethiopia, this research advances the global agenda on climate-smart agriculture, soil health, and data-driven crop management — offering valuable lessons for other cotton-producing nations facing similar challenges.

What the Authors Recommended
- The authors emphasise adjusting sowing and harvesting schedules to align with favorable temperature and rainfall patterns. Avoid regions or periods with excessive rainfall during fiber maturation or high evaporation without adequate moisture.
- Focus on areas like Amibara and high-performing Metema zones where soil pH and nutrient levels naturally support superior cotton yield and fiber quality.
- The study also advocates utilising more of Ethiopia’s 2.6 million hectares of cotton-suitable land — currently only 3% is in use. Scaling up cultivation can reduce imports and meet domestic textile industry demand.
- Adopt techniques that mitigate temperature stress and rainfall variability. Strengthen soil management through balanced application of key nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Reduce fiber contamination through better handling and harvesting practices. Introduce standardized testing tools like the Shirley Analyzer, Pressley Strength Tester, and Digital Fibrograph to ensure fiber consistency.
- Train farmers on the impact of climate and soil on cotton performance, effective sampling techniques, and moisture management. Empowered farmers can make informed, profitable, and sustainable decisions.
- In addition, support ongoing studies on climate change impacts across cotton’s growth stages. Promote the development of drought-tolerant varieties and encourage collaboration with local research institutions.
In conclusion, this study underscores the untapped potential of Ethiopia’s cotton sector, revealing that with climate-smart practices, strategic land use, and improved soil and moisture management, the country can significantly boost domestic cotton production and fiber quality—reducing import dependence, strengthening the textile industry, and driving sustainable agricultural growth.
July 2025
Nurse Retention Crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa: New Study Reveals Urgent Need for Workforce Reform and Global Accountability
A recent study Kiptulon et al. (2025) titled “Retaining nurses in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis,” published in the International Journal of Nursing Sciences, reveals that educational barriers also persist, with outdated training models and insufficient mentorship

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Nurse Retention Crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa: New Study Reveals Urgent Need for Workforce Reform and Global Accountability -Kiptulon et al. 2025

The study presents a critical evaluation of the persistent nursing workforce crisis across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). With healthcare systems under severe strain, the report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to improve nurse retention, strengthen healthcare delivery, and prevent a deepening public health emergency. The analysis reveals that, on average, only 53% of nurses in SSA remain in their jobs, and just 57% express an intention to stay (ITS) in their current roles. Regional variations are stark: East Africa reports the highest ITS at 65%, followed closely by West Africa at 63%, while Southern Africa lags far behind at just 35%.

Despite some progress, the region faces systemic challenges, including underinvestment in health infrastructure, political interference, and inconsistent HR management. Nurses often work in poor conditions marked by supply shortages, burnout, and inter-staff conflict. Educational barriers also persist, with outdated training models and insufficient mentorship. Compounding the crisis is aggressive global recruitment, particularly by wealthier countries, which continues to siphon skilled nurses out of Africa—exacerbating the brain drain.

How the Study was Conducted

Study Methodology Overview
This study employed a systematic review and meta-analysis, rigorously adhering to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, which are the gold standard for ensuring transparency and reliability in evidence synthesis. The review was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024580615), a global registry for systematic reviews that helps prevent duplication and enhances credibility.

Search and Selection Strategy
The researchers performed a comprehensive literature search across five major databases—PubMed, Ovid Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus—and supplemented this with grey literature from sources like ResearchGate and Google Scholar. The search spanned from each database’s inception up to August 2024, using keywords such as “nurse,” “retention,” and “intention to stay,” alongside the names of all 39 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries.

To be included in the review, studies had to meet strict criteria: they must be conducted in one of the 39 SSA nations, focus primarily on nurses, and report data on retention rates, intention-to-stay (ITS), strategies for retention, or challenges faced. Only peer-reviewed articles published in English within the past 15 years were considered.

Following the initial organization and deduplication of articles in EndNote, the researchers used Covidence software to manage the screening process. Four reviewers independently assessed the titles, abstracts, and full texts in a blinded manner to ensure objectivity.

Data Handling and Quality Evaluation
Key data points—such as author information, country of study, research design, sample size, findings on retention, and reported strategies or barriers—were extracted from the selected studies. The quality of each study was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT), with all 31 included studies achieving high scores between 80% and 100%, indicating strong methodological quality.

Meta-Analysis and Subgroup Insights
The pooled analysis was conducted using MetaXL software, employing a random-effects model to account for variability across studies. Retention and ITS rates were standardized as percentages, even when originally reported using different scales. High heterogeneity was detected in both metrics (I² > 95%), which led the authors to perform a subgroup analysis based on African regions.

What the Authors Found

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a critical nurse retention crisis, with only 53% of nurses remaining in their jobs and 57% intending to stay—highlighting severe workforce instability driven by poor working conditions, migration, and weak policy implementation, especially in Southern Africa, where retention is lowest at 35%.

Why is this important

1. Nurses Are Vital to SSA’s Health Systems: Sub-Saharan Africa carries 25% of the global disease burden with just 3% of the world’s nurses, making them essential to frontline care—especially in rural and underserved areas.

2. Alarming Nurse Turnover Threatens UHC Goals: With only 53% retention, high nurse turnover leads to staff shortages, burnout, and poor patient outcomes, putting Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and SDG targets at risk.

3. Massive Financial Loss from Migration: SSA loses an estimated US$2 billion annually from nurse migration, as governments train professionals who are later recruited by wealthier nations.

4. Global Brain Drain Deepens Inequities: Active recruitment of African nurses by high-income countries drains SSA’s health systems and fuels a vicious cycle of poor health and further emigration.

5. Proven, Data-Driven Retention Strategies: The study highlights region-specific solutions like financial incentives, better housing, leadership development, career growth, and ethical recruitment practices.

6. Urgent Need for Global Accountability: Authors call for WHO, AU, and global partners to enforce ethical recruitment, invest in SSA’s workforce, and promote collaborative policies to protect health equity worldwide.

What the Authors Recommended
- Sub-Saharan African countries should provide permanent employment contracts, improve salary structures (including rural and hardship allowances), and build supportive work environments that prioritize safety, fair staffing ratios, and job satisfaction.
- Governments must expand nursing education capacity, align curricula with health system needs, recruit from underserved regions, and offer flexible professional development, including short courses, career ladders, and promotion pathways.
- Offer quality housing, modern facilities, and essential supplies in rural areas. Ensure transparent HR practices, fair transfers, and respect for religious and cultural values that influence job commitment.
- Establish AU-led frameworks to harmonize employment terms, create regional licensing for easier intra-Africa mobility, and develop a continental nursing protection policy through blocs like ECOWAS, EAC, and SADC.
- High-income countries and donors must support binding recruitment agreements, compensate SSA nations through bilateral deals, and fund digital training platforms to reduce migration pressure. Institutions like WHO, ILO, and the World Bank should prioritize health workforce sustainability in funding strategies.
In conclusion, the study by Kiptulon et al. (2025) presents compelling evidence that the nurse retention crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa is not only a regional emergency but a global concern. Urgent, multi-level interventions—from national workforce reforms to international accountability—are essential to stabilize the nursing workforce, achieve universal health coverage, and uphold global health equity. Without swift and strategic action, the cycle of poor retention, migration, and health system collapse will only deepen.
July 2025
Governance of Informal Settlements in Africa: Challenges, Stakeholder Roles, and Pathways to Inclusive Urban Development
Illustrative Image: Governance of Informal Settlements in Africa: Challenges, Stakeholder Roles, and Pathways to Inclusive Urban Development
Image Source & Credit: Brookings Institution
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A recent study by Ewnetu, B. M., & Seo, B. K. (2025) titled “Governance of urban informal settlements in Africa: A scoping review” published in Heliyon, reveals that governance of informal settlements in Africa is hindered by resource limitations, fragmented stakeholder roles, weak governmental capacity, and lack of coordinated, inclusive governance models.

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Fragmented governance, weak institutions, and limited resources hinder effective, inclusive management of Africa’s informal settlements.

Ask ChatGPT
– Ewnetu, B. M., &a Seo, B. K. 2025

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of how slums and informal settlements are managed across the African continent. It examines the key governance challenges, the roles of various stakeholders, and existing governance models and identifies research gaps that must be addressed to improve urban management. A major finding of the review is the persistent governance challenges that hinder effective management of informal settlements. These include severe resource deficits, such as limited access to land, insufficient funding, poor infrastructure, and overall mismanagement. Governments are often constrained by weak institutional capacity, a lack of political will, poor interagency coordination, and the absence of strategic frameworks tailored to the realities of informal urban development. Moreover, stakeholder conflicts—arising from misaligned interests between local authorities, civil society groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector—further complicate collaboration and implementation of effective interventions.

The review identifies two main governance models in practice. The first is a prescriptive, top-down approach, where governments lead with rigid rules and policies. While structured, this model often neglects the lived realities of informal residents. In contrast, more innovative, bottom-up approaches emphasize community participation, inclusive decision-making, and collaborative governance involving civil organizations and residents themselves. Each stakeholder in the urban governance ecosystem plays a distinct yet interconnected role. Governments are responsible for policy development, resource allocation, and regulation enforcement. Local communities serve as vital agents in advocating for their needs, fostering trust, and contributing to grassroots initiatives. Civil organizations, including NGOs and community-based groups, help bridge gaps by delivering services, resolving conflicts, and enhancing capacity. The private sector can contribute by investing in infrastructure, housing, and employment, bringing sustainability and scale to urban development projects.

How the Study was Conducted

This scoping review systematically maps the current body of research on the governance of informal settlements across Africa. Guided by the PRISMA-ScR framework for scoping reviews, the study adopted Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage methodology to define research questions, identify relevant literature, screen findings, and extract and synthesize data.

A comprehensive search was conducted using three major academic databases—Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science—to capture a broad range of peer-reviewed and grey literature. The search covered publications from 2002 to 2023 and was restricted to English-language sources. Keywords were strategically combined to cover a wide spectrum of relevant terms, including “governance,” “informal settlement,” “squatter settlement,” “urbanisation,” “housing,” “slums,” and “African countries.”

The inclusion criteria focused on studies that addressed governance, policy, and institutional frameworks concerning informal settlements in African countries. Eligible sources included peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, theses, book chapters, and grey literature. Studies that were not centered on Africa, as well as those outside the publication window or lacking relevance, were excluded.

From an initial pool of 2,377 studies, duplicates were removed, reducing the count to 2,350. After a thorough title and abstract screening, 2,283 articles were excluded, leaving 67 full-text studies for review. Ultimately, 30 studies met all inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the final analysis. This entire screening and selection process is clearly illustrated in the study through a PRISMA-style flowchart.

Data analysis involved both descriptive and thematic approaches. Descriptive analysis captured trends such as publication year, geographical focus (with a strong concentration of studies from East Africa), and research methodology, which was predominantly qualitative. Thematic analysis entailed an in-depth review of selected studies to extract recurring themes. The key themes identified included major governance challenges—such as limited resources, stakeholder conflicts, and weak administrative systems—and the complex roles and interactions among key actors, including government bodies, local communities, NGOs, and the private sector.

Together, these insights offer a rich understanding of the current landscape of informal settlement governance in Africa and highlight areas requiring further exploration and policy intervention.

What the Authors Found

The authors found that governance of informal settlements in Africa is hindered by resource limitations, fragmented stakeholder roles, weak governmental capacity, and lack of coordinated, inclusive governance models. Despite efforts from various actors—governments, communities, civil organizations, and the private sector—governance remains challenged by conflicting interests, inadequate infrastructure, and unsustainable external dependencies. There is a critical need for more integrated, participatory approaches to effectively manage and upgrade informal settlements.

Why is this important

Guides Smarter Urban Policy: The review offers critical insights into what works—and what doesn’t—in governing informal settlements, helping policymakers design more inclusive and sustainable urban strategies beyond political tokenism.

Reveals Governance Failures: It exposes the root causes of failed slum-upgrading programs, such as poor coordination, weak leadership, and fragmented planning, highlighting the need for stronger, long-term governance frameworks.

Promotes Inclusive, Multi-Stakeholder Models: The study emphasizes the importance of shared responsibility among governments, communities, NGOs, and private actors, calling for better collaboration and clearer roles.

Centers Humanitarian Priorities: By addressing how poor governance in informal settlements fuels poverty, disease, and environmental risk, the review underscores that better governance can protect lives and dignity.

Provides a Practical Roadmap: Far from being just academic, the findings serve as a practical guide for transforming urban chaos into coordinated, humane, and resilient development—especially relevant for fast-urbanizing regions like Nigeria.

What the Authors Recommended
- Governance efforts must be grounded in a clear understanding of how residents in informal settlements access basic services like food, water, housing, and healthcare. Tailoring interventions to these lived experiences ensures more effective and relevant policy responses.
- The authors emphasise strengthening collaboration among governments, communities, NGOs, and the private sector by examining how these actors interact, identifying conflicts and synergies, and developing mechanisms to foster more integrated and cooperative governance structures.
- Furthermore, evaluate the influence of legal, financial, and institutional systems on informal settlement governance. Future reforms should aim to make these frameworks more flexible, inclusive, and capable of addressing the complex realities on the ground.
- In addition, identify and mitigate the unique challenges faced by each stakeholder group—whether political, financial, or logistical—to enable more inclusive and effective participation in governance processes.
In conclusion, the study by Ewnetu and Seo offers a timely and critical examination of the persistent governance challenges facing informal settlements across Africa. By mapping existing research and highlighting the fragmented roles of key stakeholders, the review underscores the urgent need for more coordinated, inclusive, and context-sensitive governance models. As African cities continue to grow rapidly, the findings serve as a call to action for policymakers, development partners, and civil society to rethink urban governance—not as a top-down mandate, but as a collaborative process grounded in the lived realities of informal settlement residents. Only through such inclusive and adaptive approaches can sustainable, dignified urban futures be achieved.
July 2025
Africa Unites to Eliminate NTDs by 2030 with New Digital Microplanning Platform Backed by Africa CDC
Illustrative Image: Africa Unites to Eliminate NTDs by 2030 with New Digital Microplanning Platform Backed by Africa CDC
Image Source & Credit: eHealth Africa
Ownership and Usage Policy

In a major step toward eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), fifty African Union (AU) Member States have endorsed an innovative digital micro-planning platform co-developed by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This landmark decision marks a pivotal moment in Africa’s collective health journey, demonstrating the continent’s growing commitment to self-driven, data-informed public health solutions.

NTDs are a group of 21 debilitating diseases that predominantly affect impoverished populations in tropical and subtropical regions. These include intestinal worms, lymphatic filariasis, river blindness, schistosomiasis, trachoma, and visceral leishmaniasis, among others. These diseases lead to long-term health complications such as blindness, deformities, malnutrition, and social stigma, collectively burdening over 565 million people in the African region—accounting for 35% of the global NTD burden.

The Microplanning Revolution

To accelerate the elimination of these diseases by 2030, the Africa CDC—alongside the World Health Organization (WHO), The END Fund, and various technical partners—has launched a first-of-its-kind continental digital microplanning portal. This dynamic platform allows each participating country to upload, manage, and monitor customized microplans aligned with their national NTD masterplans, focusing on the six most prevalent NTDs in their regions.

More than a data collection tool, the platform offers critical functionality to:
- Track and optimize resource allocation
- Identify and address technical assistance needs
- Enhance inter-country knowledge sharing
- Facilitate evidence-based budgeting
- Advocate for domestic and sustainable financing solutions
This approach is vital in the wake of declining international funding streams that have disrupted essential NTD programs across Africa. “Public health across Africa is under serious threat due to these funding gaps,” emphasized Dr. Raji Tajudeen, Acting Deputy Director General of the Africa CDC. “That’s why the strong momentum around NTD elimination is so vital—it shows resilience and collective purpose.”

Country-Led, Data-Driven Strategies

Over four days of in-depth discussions and workshops held from June 17–20, 2025, AU Member States worked together to finalize national microplans. These plans detail the specific epidemiological landscape, technical needs, existing resources, and priority interventions required to eliminate NTDs in each country.

The participatory process encouraged regional cooperation and helped countries align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063—a long-term strategic framework aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable development across the continent. As Prof. Julio Rakotonirina of the African Union Commission noted, “Eliminating NTDs is not just a health goal—it is a crucial lever for Africa’s development.”

A Shift in Health Financing Paradigms

The meeting also served as a rallying call to reform how health programs are financed. With traditional donor support dwindling, there is a growing recognition that foreign aid alone cannot sustain public health progress. “We are at a crossroads,” said Dr. Solomon Zewdu, CEO of The END Fund. “It’s time to rethink health financing. African countries must lead with collaborative, strategic financing models that blend domestic funding with catalytic external investments.”

The END Fund and Africa CDC reinforced their partnership, committing to support governments in developing co-financing models and resource pooling strategies that ensure no community is left behind. “Long-term sustainability lies in national ownership, strategic partnerships, and operationalizing plans on the ground,” added Dr. Zewdu.

Building Towards a Healthier, Resilient Africa

The microplanning workshop concluded with each country having a fully costed, data-driven, and actionable NTD elimination plan, complete with identified resource gaps and coordination strategies. This initiative aims to minimize duplication, streamline efforts, and improve the overall efficiency of NTD programs continent-wide.

As Dr. Dereje Duguma Gemeda, Ethiopia’s State Minister for Health, put it: “This new platform enables countries to make data-informed decisions that reflect real-world needs. It brings us one step closer to ending NTDs for good.”

With the full support of Africa CDC, WHO, The END Fund, and other regional and global partners, Africa is positioning itself not just as a recipient of health solutions, but as an architect of its own future—one where neglected diseases are no longer a reflection of neglected people.

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is an autonomous public health institution of the African Union that supports Member States in building strong, responsive, and sustainable health systems. It focuses on improving disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and health systems development.

About The END Fund

The END Fund is a private philanthropic initiative focused on ending the five most common NTDs through public-private partnerships. The Fund mobilizes resources and technical support for country-led efforts and sustainable strategies.
July 2025
Why Expanding Clinical Trials in Africa is Key to Global Health and Access to Innovative Medicines
Illustrative Image: Why Expanding Clinical Trials in Africa is Key to Global Health and Access to Innovative Medicines
Image Source & Credit: The World Economic Forum
Ownership and Usage Policy

Africa carries a staggering 25% of the global disease burden, yet the continent hosted only 1.1% of global clinical trials in 2023, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This significant underrepresentation not only limits access to life-saving treatments for millions of Africans but also weakens the global health security landscape.

Why Clinical Trials Matter

Clinical trials are more than a mechanism for developing new therapies — they are a gateway to healthcare access. They determine:
- Where and how quickly new drugs and therapies are approved,
- Whether treatments are tested for safety and efficacy across diverse populations, and
- Which countries receive first access to the latest healthcare innovations.
If Africa is excluded from these studies, the continent not only loses out on immediate access to innovation but also lacks the evidence base needed for localized medical guidelines and regulatory decisions. This ultimately slows the availability of effective therapies in African markets and impedes efforts to strengthen healthcare systems on the continent.

A Narrow R&D Focus Leaves Africa Behind

The 2024 Access to Medicine Index highlights a major gap: only 27.5% of late-stage R&D projects from 20 major pharmaceutical companies included at least one African country. Furthermore, of 80 medicines being developed for priority diseases, only 16 are being tested in Africa, despite the continent bearing the brunt of many of these illnesses.

This gap is especially troubling in areas like sickle cell disease, which disproportionately affects African populations (over 80% of global cases occur in Africa). Despite promising breakthroughs like gene therapy, not a single clinical trial for these advanced treatments is currently underway in Africa. Similarly, long-acting injectables, which improve treatment adherence, remain largely trialed in Africa only for HIV/AIDS, neglecting other chronic or non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The Broader Implications for Global Health

Africa’s exclusion from the clinical research ecosystem is not just a regional concern — it has global consequences. Diseases don’t respect borders, and inclusive research improves preparedness and resilience worldwide. Moreover, failure to involve African populations in trials leads to treatments that may not work as effectively due to genetic, environmental, or sociocultural differences.

Promising Progress: Infrastructure and Innovation

Despite these challenges, Africa is making strides. Investments in clinical trial infrastructure for infectious diseases have established a robust foundation, thanks to collaborations with:
- The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC)
- The European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP)
- WHO-TDR (Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases)
- Regional Centres of Regulatory Excellence (RCOREs)
These institutions have:
- Trained hundreds of local researchers and healthcare professionals,
- Set up networks like the Africa Clinical Research Network, and
- Enabled significant trials like IMPALA, which evaluates long-acting HIV treatments across multiple African sites.
Furthermore, Africa is undergoing a regulatory transformation. The upcoming African Medicines Agency (AMA) promises to accelerate drug approval timelines and harmonize regulatory processes across the continent. This can substantially boost local access to innovative treatments and strengthen Africa’s participation in global health governance.

What Needs to Change: Industry Engagement and Investment

While infrastructure and policy are improving, the pharmaceutical industry must take responsibility. Inclusive trial design is possible — some companies have already demonstrated early access strategies and local data collection. However, these examples remain rare.

To correct this imbalance:
- Pharmaceutical companies must expand their clinical trial footprint in Africa beyond infectious diseases to encompass NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions.
- Investors and global health donors must support African-led initiatives, ensuring financial and technical backing.
- Governments and health ministries across Africa must advocate for inclusion in multinational trials and build strong ethical and scientific review boards.
The Way Forward: Partnering for Impact

Organizations such as the Africa Clinical Research Network stand ready to connect global sponsors with qualified African trial sites, doctors, and institutions. However, unlocking this potential requires more than partnerships—it demands commitment, investment, and trust.

By putting African people and institutions at the center of the clinical research process, we can design medicines for their specific needs, improve health equity, and create a research ecosystem that benefits everyone, everywhere.

Conclusion

Inclusion in clinical trials is not a luxury — it is a necessity for equitable healthcare. Africa is ready with growing infrastructure, regulatory reform, and skilled personnel. What remains is for the pharmaceutical industry, policymakers, and investors to act decisively. Integrating African countries into global research from the outset is essential to ensure timely access to medicines, enhance global health security, and build resilient health systems for the future.
July 2025
Transforming Waste Cooking Oil into Biodiesel: A Sustainable Path to Clean Energy and Circular Economy
A study by Okpo, S. O., & Edafiadhe, E. D. (2024) titled “Unlocking the power of waste cooking oils for sustainable energy production and circular economy: A review,” published in ABUAD Journal of Engineering Research and Development (AJERD), reveals that waste cooking oil is a sustainable, cost-effective biodiesel feedstock that supports circular economy goals and reduces environmental pollution globally.

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Waste cooking oil is a sustainable, low-cost biodiesel feedstock that supports circular economy goals and significantly reduces environmental pollution.
– Okpo, S. O., & Edafiadhe, E. D. (2024

The study presents a comprehensive review of how waste cooking oils (WCOs) can be repurposed into biodiesel—offering both environmental and economic advantages within a circular economy framework. The study posits that improper disposal of WCOs poses significant environmental threats, including water and soil pollution. This study highlights the opportunity to transform this waste into a valuable energy resource. Unlike first-generation biofuels, WCO-based biodiesel does not compete with food crops, making it a more sustainable alternative. Central to the paper is the transesterification process, the primary method used to convert WCOs into biodiesel. The study also reviews several pretreatment techniques required to remove impurities like water, free fatty acids (FFAs), and particulates to improve conversion efficiency. In addition, the authors explore emerging and advanced conversion technologies such as:
- Microwave-assisted transesterification
- Supercritical fluid processing
- Enzymatic catalysis
- Plasma-assisted conversion
These innovations enhance biodiesel yield and quality while minimizing processing time and environmental impact.

The paper ties WCO valorization to several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably:
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
To reinforce its argument, the study features a circular flow diagram illustrating the full cycle of WCO: from collection and purification to conversion and reuse. It also includes cost-benefit analyses drawn from international case studies, demonstrating that WCO-derived biodiesel is both economically viable and environmentally responsible, thanks to low raw material costs and favourable energy yields.

What the Authors Found

The authors found that waste cooking oil is a sustainable, cost-effective biodiesel feedstock that supports circular economy goals and reduces environmental pollution globally.

Why is this important

Solving a Global Waste Crisis: Reusing millions of tons of waste cooking oil helps prevent environmental damage, protects public health, and eliminates unsafe oil recycling practices.

Clean and Renewable Energy Source: WCO-based biodiesel is a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, reducing CO₂ and sulfur emissions while enhancing energy security through local production.

Boosting Local Economies: The WCO value chain creates entrepreneurial opportunities—enabling households, eateries, and small businesses to earn income through collection and supply.

Circular Economy in Action: Waste cooking oil can be repurposed into biodiesel, soaps, animal feed, and cosmetics, ensuring maximum resource efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

Support for Global Sustainability Goals: WCO valorization directly contributes to UN SDGs, including clean energy (SDG 7), responsible production (SDG 12), and climate action (SDG 13).

What the Authors Recommended
- The authors advocate developing clear legal frameworks for WCO collection, recycling, and authorized disposal—enforcing proper practices through mandates and offering incentives to households and businesses.
- The study also advocates support for collaborative R&D focused on optimizing low-cost, eco-friendly catalysts and scaling advanced conversion technologies like enzymatic and supercritical methods for efficient WCO biodiesel production.
- Establish decentralized collection systems through public drop-off points and partnerships with food service providers, while improving storage and logistics to streamline WCO recovery.
- Furthermore, encourage small-scale biodiesel production facilities and explore diversified WCO applications (e.g., soaps, cosmetics, bioplastics) to drive entrepreneurship and circular economy growth.
- In addition, the author argues for implementing targeted education and outreach campaigns to shift public perception of WCO from waste to resource, fostering responsible disposal and participation in green energy initiatives.
In conclusion, the valorization of waste cooking oil into biodiesel presents a practical, eco-friendly, and economically viable solution that advances global sustainability goals, reduces environmental harm, and fosters local innovation within a thriving circular economy.
July 2025
Healthcare Waste Management in Developing Countries: Challenges, Risks, and AI-Driven Solutions for a Safer Future
Illustrative Image: Healthcare Waste Management in Developing Countries: Challenges, Risks, and AI-Driven Solutions for a Safer Future
Image Source & Credit: OECD
Ownership and Usage Policy

A study by Raji, M. O., & Adeogun, A. G. (2024) titled “Healthcare waste management: An overview,” published in ABUAD Journal of Engineering Research and Development (AJERD), reveals that many developing countries face systemic challenges in HCWM, ranging from poor segregation practices and outdated disposal methods to inadequate training, limited equipment, and underfunded systems

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Healthcare waste management in developing countries is dangerously inadequate, posing severe health and environmental risks that demand urgent systemic reform.
– Raji, M. O., & Adeogun, A. G. 2024

The study provides an in-depth exploration of how healthcare facilities—particularly in developing countries—handle their waste, spotlighting a critical but often overlooked public health issue. It examines global healthcare waste management (HCWM) practices by analyzing the types of waste generated, the handling process, the associated risks, and potential solutions. Healthcare waste is categorized into both solid (non-hazardous, infectious, and hazardous) and liquid forms (greywater, blackwater, stormwater). The study outlines the key stages of waste handling, including segregation, collection, transportation, treatment, and final disposal. Improper management at any of these stages poses serious environmental and health threats, such as air pollution from incinerators, contamination of water bodies, and the spread of infections due to needle-stick injuries or chemical exposure. The research highlights that many developing countries face systemic challenges in HCWM, ranging from poor segregation practices and outdated disposal methods to inadequate training, limited equipment, and underfunded systems. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues with a sharp rise in disposable personal protective equipment (PPE) waste. Beyond merely identifying these issues, the study offers forward-looking solutions. It advocates for the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to predict waste generation patterns and optimize the placement of treatment and disposal sites. Additionally, the application of statistical and machine learning models is recommended to forecast future healthcare waste trends, enabling better planning and resource allocation.

How the Study was Conducted

The research team conducted a comprehensive literature review, selecting studies from 2004 to 2023 across over 25 countries, analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data.

What the Authors Found

Healthcare waste management in many developing countries is critically inadequate—marked by poor segregation, unsafe disposal, and systemic neglect—posing serious health and environmental risks that demand urgent policy, education, and infrastructure reforms.

Why is this important

Severe Public Health Risks: Improperly managed healthcare waste spreads infectious diseases (HIV, Hepatitis B/C, typhoid) and causes injuries from sharps and contaminated materials, endangering healthcare workers and nearby communities.

Major Environmental Harm: Toxic emissions from outdated incinerators, contaminated water and soil from untreated dumping, and loss of recyclable resources due to poor segregation severely impact ecosystems.

Systemic Failures Undermine HCWM: Weak regulation, lack of staff training, poor motivation, and chronic shortages in infrastructure and equipment prevent effective waste management across many developing nations.

Pandemic Pressures Exacerbated Waste Crisis: COVID-19 led to a sharp rise in medical waste (e.g., PPE), overwhelming existing systems and highlighting the urgent need for scalable, sustainable HCWM solutions.

Global Relevance and Opportunity: Addressing HCWM aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 3, 6, and 12), and emerging technologies like AI and GIS offer promising tools—if adequately supported.

What the Authors Recommended
- The authors argue that management should provide regular, targeted training for healthcare workers and waste handlers, alongside community sensitization to promote safe waste practices.
- The study posits that the government should develop national manuals tailored to local environmental, financial, and cultural contexts, aligning with—but refining—global WHO standards.
- Enforce the use of labeled, color-coded bins (minimum of three categories) at all waste generation points to ensure safe and efficient sorting.
- Improve access to essential materials like PPE and liners, and invest in cleaner treatment technologies such as autoclaves to replace outdated incinerators.
- In addition, the author recommends implementing AI for waste prediction and GIS for real-time monitoring and site planning, supported by accurate record-keeping to inform policy and resource allocation.
In conclusion, effective healthcare waste management is not just an environmental necessity but a public health imperative—especially in developing nations where systemic failures pose grave risks. By investing in training, modern infrastructure, smart technologies like AI and GIS, and locally tailored policies, countries can turn this pressing challenge into a sustainable opportunity aligned with global health and environmental goals.
July 2025