The 2026 edition of Africa Science Week has been launched in Tamale with a strong call on young people to use science, technology, and innovation to tackle Africa’s growing development challenges, including climate change, food insecurity, poor sanitation, and limited healthcare access.
The event, organised by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences Network in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, brought together students, educators, researchers, and health professionals to explore how scientific solutions could transform communities and drive sustainable development across the continent.
Held on the theme, “Harnessing Science and Innovation for Africa’s Sustainable Future,” the celebration forms part of a continent-wide initiative taking place across seven African countries, namely Ghana, South Africa, Cameroon, Rwanda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Speaking at the launch, Charles Lebon Mberi Kimpolo said the initiative aimed at bringing scientific discussions closer to communities where innovation could create the greatest impact.
According to him, the programme reflected the commitment of AIMS alumni to inspire scientific thinking and strengthen collaboration among students, scientists, educators, and industry players across Africa.
Hamdiya Alhassan identified climate change as one of the biggest threats facing farming communities in northern Ghana, warning that erratic rainfall patterns continued to affect agricultural productivity and food security.
She stressed the need for science-driven interventions such as early maturing crop varieties and the use of artificial intelligence in weather forecasting to help farmers determine suitable planting periods and reduce crop losses.
Prof. Alhassan also advocated the conversion of organic waste into fertiliser through scientific innovation to reduce environmental pollution, extend landfill lifespan, and create employment opportunities for the youth.
On healthcare, Ah-Lam Abdul-Kadir Napari said access to quality healthcare should not depend on a person’s location and encouraged students to develop innovations that would improve sanitation, hygiene, and disease prevention in communities.
The two-week celebration, running from May 14 to May 30, features science expos, coding workshops, robotics demonstrations, Women in STEM forums, and academic exchanges designed to promote scientific engagement among young people across Africa.
