Africa Science Focus

Growing more local seeds in Africa can solve the region’s food insecurity and climate problems.Local crops and seeds are often neglected in Africa, despite their nutritional and environmental benefits, research has shown.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, Method Gundidza, director of the EarthLore Foundation, explains to reporter Elna Schütz the legacy of colonialism on these native species. Siphiwe Sithole, a farmer and managing director at African Marmalade, an agribusiness that specialises in African crops, highlights the significance of indigenous seeds on the continent. Using research, Albert Modi, executive dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa, assesses the level of use of local seeds in Africa.Meanwhile, Mariam Mayet, executive director of the African Centre of Biodiversity indicates ways African farmers can increase the use of indigenous seeds.Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Solar powered, low-cost respiratory technology is aiding the fight to reduce neonatal mortality in Nigeria.Nigeria has a newborn mortality crisis, with 262,000 infant deaths each year.  In this episode of Africa Science Focus, our correspondent, Royal Uche, highlights an innovation developed to curb the deaths of preterm babies in Africa’s most populous nation.  We hear from Jimoh Abdulrasheed, consultant paediatrician at the Calabar Women and Children’s Hospital, who tells us about the life-saving impact the solar-powered respiratory technology has had at this hospital in the south of the country.   Hippolite Amadi, a professor of medical engineering and technology, Imperial College, London, who developed the product, reveals the challenges he faced in scaling it, including dealing with corrupt high-ranking health officials. Mary Edet shares her baby's survival story. And Olukemi Tongo, consultant neonatologist at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, in Nigeria’s Oyo state, says the government should invest in the innovation to reduce new-born deaths. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This project was funded by the European Journalism Centre, through the Solutions Journalism Accelerator. The fund is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

In this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporter Michael Kaloki pulls apart the packaging challenges that threaten food security in East Africa.We speak to Zippy Shiyoya, director at the Institute of Packaging Professionals Kenya, who highlights challenges faced by the industry, such as high production costs and shortages of materials that limit access to safe packaging.Michael Humble, a Kenyan biochemist, explains how there is a need to understand the physical and chemical properties of food packaging to prevent spoiling and contamination.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio stationThis piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Women in Sub-Saharan Africa are highly prone to developing fibroids, a kind of non-cancerous growth in the uterus, according to research. But they often don’t receive the treatment they need, risking major health consequences.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Busola Ajibola speaks to Maureen Umemmuo-Umeakuewulu, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the National Hospital Abuja, Nigeria, who explains why fibroids are prevalent in the region. She discusses the symptoms, treatment options, and recovery tips, including the role of nutrition.We also hear from women dealing with fibroids about their experiences, in the last of our month-long series on women’s health.-------------------------------Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Childbirth brings forth new life but is a dangerous journey for many women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, over two-thirds of global maternal mortality occurs in the region. In this episode of Africa Science Focus – the second in our series on women’s health – our reporter, Busola Ajibola, speaks to Eli Sukarime, associate professor and honorary consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.He discusses the need to understand the causes of maternal mortality in the region in order to design effective healthcare solutions.Osaretin Okonji, public health researcher at the University of Western Cape’s School of Pharmacy, in Cape Town, South Africa, says improving access through policy changes and prioritising interventions like antenatal care are crucial steps.----------------------Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

The SPOON Chair has the potential to significantly improve the lives of children with cerebral palsy and their families across Africa.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we feature an innovative device called the SPOON Chair, designed to improve feeding for children with the movement and posture disease cerebral palsy. David Kibirige, who helped develop the device, tells us how the chair was produced and what features are coming next. We also hear from Jacinta Nakazzi, a mother who witnessed firsthand the positive impact of the SPOON Chair on her son with cerebral palsy.Speech therapist Daniel Seremba emphasizes the importance of proper positioning during feeding for children with disabilities.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This project was funded by the European Journalism Centre, through the Solutions Journalism Accelerator. The fund is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation. This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

To commemorate International Women’s Day on 8 March, Africa Science Focus speaks with women leaders in academic science across Africa. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former and first female President of Mauritius and biodiversity scientist, tells our reporter, Michael Kaloki, how to make science more attractive for young women.Quarraisha Abdool Karim, epidemiologist and Pro-Vice Chancellor for African Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, explained how mentorship advanced her career. Lastly, Marie Korsaga, West Africa’s first female astrophysicist and an assistant lecturer at the Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo in Burkina Faso recounted how she is surviving in a male-dominated field. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa.  Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio stationThis piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

In this episode of Africa Science Focus, our reporter Bunmi Yekini speaks to Hammed Rauf, owner of Hamruf Global Limited, who transforms glass waste into valuable resources. We also hear from Mufutau  Adelotan, a user of the recycled glass, who shares insights on the product’s usefulness.Glass poses environmental and health risks when not managed properly. Is recycling alone sufficient to mitigate these risks and safeguard the environment and climate? Professor Ilemobayo Oguntimehin, professor of environmental dynamics and management, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology in Okitipupa, Ondo, Nigeria, sheds light on this. And Doyinsola Ogunye, climate activist and founder of the Recycling Scheme for Women and Youth Empowerment, shares her perspective on the recycling.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This project was funded by the European Journalism Centre, through the Solutions Journalism Accelerator. The fund is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation. This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we examine what role telemedicine could play in plugging Africa’s healthcare gaps. Our reporter, Royal Uche speaks with Abubakar Ibrahim, founder of telemedicine solution provider Medicliq, who tells us how remote methods of healthcare could be instrumental in solving the continent’s health challenges. We also hear from Omolola Salako, public health expert and clinical oncologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, about how such technology can benefit rural and underserved areas. Meanwhile, Joana Eva Dodoo, lecturer in the department of business programmes at the College of Distance Education, University of Cape Coast, Ghana, shares her findings on the shortfalls of telemedicine in Africa and how to overcome them. Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

[ACCRA] Located within Accra’s bustling Agbogbloshie market, Ghana's infamous e-waste dumpsite poses serious health risks to residents and traders.The burning of discarded electronics for valuable materials leads to smoky air that has severe health implications for the community. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Justice Baidoo speaks with Anita Asamoah, a researcher at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, who analysed the breast milk of mothers in this location and found cancer-causing metals.Meanwhile, Mountain Research Institute president Vincent Kyere, suggests some lasting solutions to the environmental pollution at Agbogbloshie. Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Africa produces only about four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, but the region — particularly its agriculture sector — bears the brunt of climate change.In this episode, Ogechi Ekeanyanwu and Titilope Fadare find out how smallholder farmers from Kenya and Nigeria ensure they produce crops all year round amid extreme weather conditions. Boaz Waswa, a soil fertility specialist at the Alliance of Bioversity International and International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) based in Kenya, shared some climate-smart strategies that farmers can adopt to build resilience.We also hear from Shalika Vyas, associate fellow in agriculture and climate at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT. She discusses how access to climate finance can assist farmers in adapting and mitigating the impacts of climate change.  Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Ebola is a highly contagious and often deadly virus and has been a persistent threat to several countries in Africa.In this episode, Africa Science Focus spoke to researchers at the University of Zambia and Hokkaido University, Japan, who designed a kit which can detect the Ebola virus within minutes. Katendi Changula, infectious disease researcher at the University of Zambia, explained how this test can be a game-changer, while Ayato Takada, professor at the International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Japan, explains how the kits were developed.And Joseph Ndebe, researcher at the School of Veterinary Medicine, disease control department, at the University of Zambia, sheds light on the challenges faced in deploying the test kits.We also hear from Sheila Makiala, who works at the National Institute of Biomedical Research in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She spoke to us about how the tests play a pivotal role in the effective management of Ebola outbreaks in the DRC. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This project was funded by the European Journalism Centre, through the Solutions Journalism Accelerator. The fund is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation. This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Unlocking the wonders of science in young minds is pivotal for cultivating a generation of critical thinkers and innovators, particularly in Africa.In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we look into the challenges and innovative solutions for igniting children's passion for science. Our reporter, Michael Kaloki, speaks to Harun Mbuvi, chair of the Chemistry Department at Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya, who highlights the barriers within Africa’s education system hindering science education for children.Yetunde Oluwatosin, education specialist at UNICEF, provides insights into overcoming obstacles to science education. And Sani Aliyu, a professor and renewable energy expert at Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto, Nigeria, shares some strategies to enhance children's understanding of science. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa.  Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Misconceptions about disability and sex often lead to stigma and can prevent women with disabilities from accessing the sexual and reproductive healthcare they need. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Ijeoma Ukazu speaks to Nigerian disability rights advocates and experts Lois Auta-Udonkanta, Salome Net and Rahmatu Ahmed. They share their experiences of navigating disabilities, debunk some of the myths attached to disability and sex, and highlight the factors preventing women with disabilities from accessing quality health services.Joy Shu’aibu, director of programme operations for Sightsavers in Nigeria, shares practical steps policymakers can take to make sexual and reproductive health accessible for women with disabilities. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Africa's water crisis, compounded by climate change, threatens agricultural sustainability and food security. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, we delve into actionable strategies for managing water effectively across the continent.Our reporter, Michael Kaloki, speaks to Professor Sylvester Mpandeli, executive manager for water utilization in Agriculture at the Water Research Commission, South Africa, to uncover critical gaps hindering efficient water use in agriculture.Dr. Mathapelo Seopela, a lecturer in the chemical sciences department at the University of Johannesburg, offers practical solutions for communities and leaders to safeguard water quality. Dr. Thabile Ndlovu, senior lecturer in the chemistry department at the University of Swaziland, Kwaluseni, explores how cross-border collaboration can unlock the potential for clean, agricultural water across Africa.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa.  Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net  Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio stationThis piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

This episode of Africa Science Focus continues to investigate the pollution of the Osun River in southwest Nigeria, delving into the environmental impact of gold mining along its banks. Olugbenga Okunlola, professor of geology at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, joins our reporter, Babatunde Okunlola, to talk about the gold deposits in Osun state and the region's environmental dynamics.We hear from miners and ecological experts about the soil erosion, vanishing forests, and polluted air and water resulting from unregulated mining practices – and explore potential solutions. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

The Osun River in south-west Nigeria is a paradox. On one hand, it is revered by those who believe in its spiritual connection to the river goddess Oshun and its healing powers. On the other, mining activities have led to its pollution, affecting the river's water quality.In the first of a two-part series on the Osun River, Africa Science Focus dives into this complex landscape.Our reporter Babatunde Okunola talks with devoted worshippers who remain drawn to the river amid health concerns. Oluseyi Atanda, president of the Traditional Religious Association in Osun state, provides insight into the river's deep, historical significance.Azeez Luqmon, associate professor of analytical environment and nano chemistry at the University  of Osun, Nigeria, shares his findings about the pollution and offers solutions for the river’s restoration. Can science and tradition work together to heal the Osun River and ensure its continued cultural and environmental value? Tune in to Africa Science Focus to find out.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.netThis piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Plastic pollution is a spiralling global problem and in cities like Kampala plastic waste is found everywhere in its streets, parks, and waterways.Uganda’s Ghetto Research Lab, set up to find innovative ways to improve people’s lives and solve environmental problems, is taking on this challenge with its “solar basins”, made from recycled plastic. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Aneta Felix speaks with the lab’s founder, Patrick Mujuzi, about how the solar laundry basins are easing the load for Ugandan women. We hear from beneficiary Musiige Jovia about how the innovation is creating economic opportunities in vulnerable communities and from environmentalist Aisha Faith about the negative effects of plastic pollution in Uganda.----------------------------------------------- This project was funded by the European Journalism Centre, through the Solutions Journalism Accelerator. The fund is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Cervical cancer is a deadly disease which claims the lives of thousands of Nigerian women every year. Nigeria is fighting this health menace with the introduction of a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its routine immunisation programme and began a vaccination drive for young girls in October. In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Royal Uche speaks to top Nigerian scientists and health experts, Muhammad Habeebu, Ifeoma Okoye and Oyewale Tomori to learn more about the virus, from transmission to prevention, and how it leads to cancer.We also hear from Ahmed Rufai Garba, national coordinator for HPV vaccination in Nigeria, about the rollout of the vaccine and future plans to mitigate the challenges.This podcast was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net

Tech solutions, even those created by young people, could tackle development challenges on the continent. In this episode of the Africa Science Focus podcast, reporter Aneta Felix speaks with two young innovators, Olivia Chizaram Obi from Nigeria and Sharon Kemunto from Kenya, who recently participated in a global tech competition.They give us insights into their innovations, and discuss the potential impact on their communities.The podcast also explores the behind-the-scenes journey of competition preparation with parents and mentors. David Jinad, a Nigerian software engineer, tells us how these young innovations can grow Africa's technology sector. This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net