Kenya and Gambia hold discussions on research and innovation financing

By:  Robert Kwaku Annor

Kenya’s Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Shaukat Abdulrazak, has held discussions with a delegation from The Gambia aimed at strengthening collaboration in science, technology, and innovation (STI).

The delegation was led by Isatou Auber of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, alongside representatives from the country’s newly established National Research and Innovation Fund. The meeting focused on advancing shared priorities in research development and innovation-driven economic growth.

Officials explored strategies for increasing domestic financing for research and development, as well as the establishment of innovation clusters to enhance collaboration and impact. Discussions also covered the adoption of research chairs and a “grand challenge” approach to addressing societal issues through science and technology.

During the engagement, Kenya’s progress in STI and research and development was highlighted as a reference point for strengthening national innovation systems. Both sides emphasised the importance of breaking institutional silos and fostering stronger linkages between academia and industry.

The meeting further underscored the role of public-private partnerships in building resilient innovation ecosystems capable of driving knowledge generation and economic transformation across the continent.

Participants agreed to deepen cooperation between the two countries, with a focus on promoting innovation-led development and strengthening Africa’s position in the global knowledge economy.