The UK Government has announced a major investment of up to £1.9m to boost science, technology and innovation in Ghana and Nigeria through the West Africa Research and Innovation Centre.
This initiative, named Sankore after a medieval center of learning in West Africa, aims to strengthen the global technology sector and create opportunities for fast-growing economies.
At the launch, UK Secretary for Africa Lord Collins said: “This initiative is about how we can work together to strengthen the global technology sector, creating opportunities for fast-growing, high-potential economies to compete in world stage”.
The Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ophelia Mensah Hayford, highlighted that Sankore will serve as a funding vehicle to catalyze the implementation of the UK-Ghana Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy.
The British High Commission in Ghana, Harriet Thomson, reiterated the UK’s commitment to working with African countries in science, technology and innovation, stating that “the launch of Sankore sends a clear message: the UK sees enormous value in cooperation with African countries”.
He said the investment is expected to drive economic transformation in Ghana and strengthen existing partnerships between the UK and Ghana on science, technology and innovation.
The Minister of Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, said the launch of the Sankore initiative has come at the right time as it promises to fuel innovation and drive the pursuit of knowledge and business expansion.
“I want to take this opportunity to encourage businesses and enterprises to submit proposals for consideration. I believe the investor community will benefit from the Sankore Call for Proposals to grow and expand,” he said.
Mr Asiamah said the government aims to support private enterprises and start-ups by providing them with the necessary resources to thrive and maximize their contribution to a sustainable future.
He expressed excitement at the growing interest from private sector players, including companies such as Kofa, in promoting greener initiatives.
“As we implement our decarbonisation policies, we are calling on organizations to participate in strengthening technology and innovative systems,” he added.
OF Prince Fifi York
