By Sharon Atieno
Despite technological and research advancements in the continent, Africans still rely heavily on imported goods with its manufacturing sector lagging behind others.
Reports indicate that the continent’s share of global manufacturing has declined from 3% in the 1970s to less than 2% with production focusing heavily on low-technology products such as food, textiles, clothing and footwear.
Speaking at the Kenya National Research Festival, Dr. Juma Mukhwana, the Principal Secretary for Industrialization called on Africans to move from research to production for the continent to be able to reach its industrial revolution.
Though observing the importance of research, he noted that industrialization is a cornerstone for development and only through local production can the continent reach its full potential.
“A lot of our industrialization within Kenya and Africa is not based on our research products,” he lamented, noting that research is contributing less than 10% to the products in the local market.
Unlike the current situation, Dr. Mukhwana urged that the continent’s industrialization should be based on in-house solutions which have been derived from research.
According to Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Kenya’s Head of Public Service, there is need to move from research to commercialization of research products for the benefit of the researchers and the community at large.
He said that collaboration between researchers and other stakeholders including industry players is crucial for research products to reach the market and improve the society and economy.
Under the theme “Research Partnerships and Collaborations for Socio-economic Transformation- Catalysing Development Through Research” the inaugural National Research Festival seeks to underscore the economic impact of research and innovation.
Additionally, the five-day event ( 19th-23rd August) aims to highlight Kenya’s dynamic research and innovation environment by presenting groundbreaking projects and opportunities for young and established scientists.
