Africa Science Focus

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Africa Science Focus

Africa Science Focus is SciDev.Net's award-winning weekly podcast. We dive deep into the impacts that science has on everything from health, to technology, agriculture and life. Subscribe to get the best science and development news from the continent delivered straight to you! 

  1. OCT 2

    Inclusive policies key to expanding women’s tech access

    Systemic barriers and poor support structures are stifling the progress of women in STEMUnderrepresentation of women in science and technology is limiting the continent's access to different perspectives and innovation, educators in the sector tell Africa Science Focus.Women account for only 20 per cent of women in science and engineering in Africa and 32 per cent of research and development scientists, according to research by the UN Economic Commission for Africa.In this episode of Africa S...

    30 min

  2. AUG 9

    Reviving Africa's indigenous science knowledge

    Africa's indigenous knowledge holds untapped potential for scientific innovation.In a continent with so many different cultures and traditions, indigenous knowledge has enormous potential to inform and strengthen scientific research. However, the legacy of colonialism has pushed African indigenous science knowledge to the fringes.In this episode of African Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African scientists and researchers about the importance of incorporating local knowledg...

    30 min

  3. JUL 25

    Can hydroponics help ease Africa's food shortages?

    Sub-Saharan Africa faces significant food security challenges, exacerbated by climate change and conflict.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we explore the potential of hydroponic farming. This type of farming uses nutrient-rich solutions instead of soil—allowing for controlled and sustainable food production.Our reporter, Abdulkareem Mojeed, speaks to farmers and researchers who share their experiences and insights on harnessing hydroponics to improve crop yields.Adeniyi Olayanju, a Ni...

    30 min

  4. JUL 18

    Nigerian farmers, scientists divided over GM maize

    The Nigerian government's approval earlier this year of transgenic insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties, also known as TELA maize, has sparked intense debate among farmers, scientists, and the general public.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Jayne Augoye hears out the diverse perspectives on the introduction of TELA maize, a genetically modified (GM) crop, which proponents say will contribute to food and nutrition security.Samuel Agele, professor and researche...

    30 min

  5. JUL 14

    Citizen science paves the way to policy

    Citizen science educates the public about science and enhances research for evidence-driven policiesIn this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African scientists who discuss the important role citizen science plays in scientific research. Peter Elias, a geography professor in Nigeria, says communities use storytelling and folklore to document their experiences, providing valuable supplementary knowledge to scientific research.Jaqueline Goldin, a prof...

    30 min

  6. JUN 28

    Anti-HIV vagina ring limited by cost, access

    The dapivirine vaginal ring holds promise in the fight against HIV. But for the young women in Africa who need it most, access remains a major challenge. Women aged 15 to 24 are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV infection due to a complex web of factors, including social, cultural, and economic forces. The silicone ring reduces their risk of infection by continually releasing the antiretroviral dapivirine into the vagina. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, report...

    30 min

  7. JUN 21

    Science informed policy could unlock progress in Africa

    Effective policymaking in Africa requires collaboration between scientists and policymakers. But, despite the potential for science to drive sustainable development, the relationship between these two groups can be underwhelming. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, scientists highlight the need for scientists and policymakers to work together to create evidence-based policies to solve problems and share successful examples of scientific advisory.------------------------------------...

    30 min

  8. JUN 10

    Can mini grids solve Nigeria’s electricity problems?

    In this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporters Ogechi Ekeanyanwu and Titilope Fadare speak to researchers who highlight Nigeria's energy access challenges and the potential of mini grids to address them.Temilade Sesan, energy researcher and consultant, and Ewah Ileri, executive director of the International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development, a Nigerian think tank, explain what mini grids are and discuss ways to overcome regulatory hurdles to deliver sustainable energy sol...

    30 min
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About

Africa Science Focus is SciDev.Net's award-winning weekly podcast. We dive deep into the impacts that science has on everything from health, to technology, agriculture and life. Subscribe to get the best science and development news from the continent delivered straight to you! 

Information

  • Creator
    SciDev.Net
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    172
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 SciDev.Net
  • Show Website
    Africa Science Focus

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