In response to declining international financial support for research, the Ghanaian government is shifting its focus towards the commercialization of research outputs as a means of generating internal funding. This strategic move was announced by Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, as part of broader efforts to ensure the sustainability of the country’s research institutions.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over reduced external aid, including the recent freeze on USAID funding. Minister Muhammad emphasized the importance of research institutions leveraging their innovations to secure financial independence. “If we have research institutions that can commercialize their outputs, they will generate funds internally to invest in research projects. It is imperative for these institutions to effectively communicate their successes to gain the needed traction,” he stated.
As a key step in this direction, Ghana is set to host its first-ever Science and Technology Research Fair in May 2025. The event will serve as a platform to showcase groundbreaking research, attract investors, and facilitate stronger partnerships between the scientific community and industry players. By demonstrating the commercial viability of their work, researchers will have the opportunity to secure funding and scale their innovations.
This initiative complements existing funding efforts such as the Ghana National Research Fund and the CSIR Science for Impact Fund (CSIF), both of which aim to bolster research institutions while promoting industrial growth and economic development.
The announcement was made during the opening of the Africa Genetic Biocontrol Consortium’s 2nd Global Congress in Accra, themed “Harnessing Biocontrol Potential Solutions in a Changing Climate.” The congress brought together 150 participants from 15 countries to discuss the role of genetic biocontrol technologies in Africa.
At the event, Professor Fredros Okumu of the University of Glasgow highlighted the urgency of exploring alternative financing models following the reduction in U.S. aid. “This situation presents an opportunity to reflect and explore additional resources. It also challenges us to innovate and develop cost-effective tools and interventions, such as genetically modified mosquitoes, to reduce malaria transmission,” he noted.
Minister Muhammad also stressed the importance of global collaboration in tackling malaria, which remains a persistent challenge despite years of intervention. He pointed out that while Africa’s annual budget for malaria control ranges between $8 billion and $10 billion, actual funding rarely exceeds $5 billion, creating a critical gap that needs to be addressed.
Ghana’s pivot toward research commercialization represents a significant policy shift that could redefine its scientific landscape. By aligning scientific discoveries with market needs, the country is positioning itself as a hub for research-driven economic growth. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the ability of institutions to attract investment, establish industry collaborations, and scale up research-based products and solutions.
As Ghana embraces this new approach, it is sending a clear message: research must move beyond academic spaces and into real-world applications that drive economic transformation. The coming years will determine whether this shift can provide long-term sustainability for the country’s research sector, ensuring that scientific advancements not only generate knowledge but also create a tangible impact.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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