The UK government has announced a significant investment of up to £1.9 million to boost science, technology, and innovation in Ghana and Nigeria through its West Africa Research and Innovation Hub.
This initiative, named Sankore after a medieval West African learning centre, aims to strengthen the global technology sector and create opportunities for rapidly growing economies.
At the launch, UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins said, “This initiative is all about how we can work together to strengthen the global technology sector, creating opportunities for rapidly growing economies with lots of potential to compete on the world stage.”
Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ophelia Mensah Hayford, emphasised that Sankore will serve as a financing vehicle to catalyse the implementation of the UK-Ghana Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy.
British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, reiterated the UK’s commitment to partnering with African countries on science, technology, and innovation, stating that “the launch of Sankore sends a clear message: the UK sees enormous value in partnering with African countries.”
She 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 for 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 wish to take this opportunity to encourage businesses and firms to submit proposals for consideration. I believe that the investor community will take advantage of the Sankore Call for Proposals to grow and expand,” he said.
Mr. Asiamah said the government aims to support private businesses and startups, providing them with the necessary resources to thrive and maximise their contributions to a sustainable future.
He expressed enthusiasm about the growing interest from private sector players, including companies like Kofa, in advancing greener initiatives.
“As we implement our decarbonisation policies, we invite organisations to participate in enhancing technology and innovative systems,” he added.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke