Author: ACE Comms Team

Sustainable Global Ties: ACE Partner Project’s Contribution to Health, Technology, Environment

In the current era, the importance of global academic and scientific collaboration is more recognized than ever before, especially in health, technology, and the environment. In this context, the ACE Partner project, a product of a collaborative institutional effort by the World Bank, the French Development Agency, the Institute of Research for Development, and the Association of African Universities, is a beacon of innovation. It embodies a legacy of producing relevant scientific contributions, strengthening global interconnectedness, and tackling sustainable development challenges across West Africa. This transformative legacy is evidenced in the individual and collective contributions of the initiative’s four networks of excellence—the West African Network for Infectious Diseases ACEs (WANIDA), the Digital Science and Technology Network (DSTN), the Responsible Mining and Sustainable Development Network (RAM2D), and the Sustainable Water Management Network (RES-EAU).

 

WANIDA’s Contribution

WANIDA is deeply committed to fostering collaboration and showcasing its research through events. This dedication was evident at its inaugural symposium in Ghana in March 2023, bringing together over 500 experts from 152 institutions across 31 countries, not only from Africa but also from the UK, the US, and France. The symposium underscored a multidisciplinary approach to infectious disease research, highlighting the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It also featured the My Thesis in 3 Minutes challenge, which showcased students’ research, enhanced their presentation skills, and rewarded the winners with a total of €4,000 to undertake research projects that would contribute to Africa’s efforts at containing infectious diseases.

The winning thesis focused on innovative research into infectious diseases, particularly in West Africa. It focused on addressing a critical issue related to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases prevalent in the region. The project stood out for its potential to contribute significantly to public health through the development of new diagnostic tools, treatment strategies, and public health interventions tailored to the unique challenges of West Africa. The presenters’ ability to clearly and concisely communicate the essence and impact of their research within a three-minute timeframe was crucial to their success in the competition. This achievement also highlights WANIDA’s recognition of effectively translating complex scientific research into accessible information that can drive real-world change.

Some participants at the WANIDA Symposium
Some participants at the WANIDA Symposium

WANIDA’s influence extends beyond regional borders, as demonstrated by its research presentations at the 15th International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA) in Denmark. The network’s committed researchers shared new and exciting findings at this event. They discussed potential new ways to treat a parasitic disease called schistosomiasis and how to control the snails that spread it. They also examined studies on malaria, specifically focusing on the spread of the disease and the behaviour of the parasite that causes it. Additionally, the WANIDA researchers explored how certain chemicals could be used to target the parasite that causes another severe disease called trypanosomiasis. Finally, they looked at how a type of bacteria called Wolbachia could help reduce the spread of malaria by affecting the mosquitoes that carry the disease.

 

DSTN’s Contribution

DSTN has been at the forefront of integrating digital innovation and sustainable development and setting global platforms for fruitful deliberations among academia, industry, and government. The DSTN symposium in December 2021 in Senegal underscored the importance of digital science and technology in achieving sustainable development. The event brought together key stakeholders from academia, the public and private sectors, and NGOs to discuss the intersection of research, innovation, and technology transfer. The symposium’s key outcome, a Joint Manifesto, provided recommendations for digital transformation in Africa, emphasising infrastructure security, data harnessing, and robust frameworks to support digital research.

Additionally, DSTN’s consultation on digitalization in West African higher education significantly impacted the UNESCO World Conference on Higher Education (WHEC 2022). The network brought together experts from across the continent to discuss digital transformation in education, assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education delivery, and propose actionable recommendations for advancing digital transformation in the region. DSTN highlighted the importance of digital infrastructure investments, multidisciplinary collaboration, and regulatory frameworks to support digital education strategies.

At the WACREN 2022 Conference in Cote d’Ivoire, DSTN played a crucial role by co-organising a high-level regional workshop on High-Performance Computing (HPC). This workshop culminated in developing strategies and a roadmap for a sustainable HPC collaborative network, securing stakeholder commitments, and identifying key focus areas such as training, infrastructure, connectivity, and governance. DSTN’s efforts promise to enhance HPC capabilities in West and Central Africa, expand training initiatives, and strengthen partnerships with industry and international stakeholders.

At the African Matters Conference in Senegal in 2018, DSTN advocated bridging the gap between digital and social sciences, research and industry, and various stakeholders to drive technological and social innovation in Africa. The network showed how digital transformation can address major development challenges like poverty, healthcare, and cybersecurity. DSTN’s contribution enhanced partnerships, deepened skills and knowledge sharing on AI, and developed ethical frameworks for AI deployment to ensure inclusive and responsible technological advancement across Africa.

 

RAMR2D’s Contribution

RAMR2D

RAMR2D is tackling the environmental and social impacts of mining head-on by advancing responsible mining practices that align with global sustainability goals. The RAMR2D Bootcamp in June 2022 in Niger brought together over 200 stakeholders to dialogue on the impacts of

artisanal gold mining in West Africa. The boot camp culminated in The Niamey Declaration, which proposed a holistic approach to artisanal and semi-industrial gold mining, innovative solutions within a community of practice, and a regional multistakeholder regulatory framework.

RAMR2D deepened its efforts toward responsible mining practices by significantly contributing to Motion 67 at the 2021 IUCN Congress to minimise biodiversity impacts. RAMR2D’s involvement enhanced its visibility among global conservation stakeholders and positioned it as a key player in advocating biodiversity protection in mining activities, contributing to global conservation efforts. RAMR2D also co-organised the Mining Connections Conferences in 2022 and 2024, fostering collaboration among global researchers, NGOs, and mining companies to address mining challenges and opportunities and promote data transparency for responsible mining in West Africa.

Furthermore, RAM2RD participated in the 3rd ECOWAS Mining and Petroleum Forum in Niger. Here, the network emphasised the integration of the mining and oil industries into the regional value chain to boost economic and social development. This effort was deepened at the DEJ’CRYPTAGE AFD and Partner webinar in 2023, where the network highlighted the importance of research and innovation to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainable resource management. At the AFD-ACE Partner Webinar, the network advocated a cross-disciplinary approach to developing holistic solutions. RAMR2D focused on sustainable resource extraction, environmental impact assessment, and community engagement, underscoring the importance of technological advancements, policy reforms, capacity-building, and cultural shifts for sustainable development in Africa.

 

RES-EAU’s Contribution

RES-EAU

Lastly, RES-EAU has been instrumental in addressing one of the most critical resources for life—water. The network is championing innovative water management solutions that enhance water security and sustainability in the Sahel region through global forums and partnering with regional stakeholders. Its participation in the World Water Forum in Senegal testified to its contributions to assessing global water challenges. The network organised events that emphasised sustainable water management, interdisciplinary solutions, and innovative approaches to water security. The partnerships RES-EAU brokered with Senegal’s SEN’EAU and Cote d’Ivoire’s Veolia at this forum led to new research programmes and internship opportunities.

RES-EAU’s technical expertise in water management was recognised by the UNCCD when UNCCD appointed it to define a transboundary water strategy for the Great Green Wall (GGW) initiative. By integrating sustainable water practices, leveraging advanced technologies like remote sensing, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the network has been crucial in ensuring efficient and equitable water use within the GGW projects, enhancing water security, combating desertification, and promoting environmental sustainability in the Sahel, which aligns with GGW’s broader goals.

 

RES-EAU’s High-level Session at World Water Forum 2022
RES-EAU’s High-level Session at World Water Forum 2022

 

As the ACE Partner project concludes its formal funding phase, its unmistakable legacy of impactful research, innovative solutions, and sustainable regional development blueprint, championed by the combined efforts of its four thematic networks—WANIDA, DSTN, RAMR2D, and RES-EAU—lives on to demonstrate what can be achieved when shared vision, collaboration, and dedication converge.

ACE-CEFOR Pioneers Innovative Tools to Streamline Project Management in Oil and Gas Sector

The Africa Center of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (ACE-CEFOR), hosted by the University of Port Harcourt (UniPort) in Nigeria, has taken a significant leap forward in project management efficiency. One of the 54 Centers of Excellence of the ACE Impact project, ACE-CEFOR has developed two innovative tools: an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software and a Grievance Redress Platform. These two tools have been designed to simplify the complex fiduciary and administrative processes typically associated with managing large-scale projects.

The Grievance Redress Platform seeks to streamline all grievance management processes and make it easier for the center, its host universities, and other users to address all concerns effectively and swiftly. On the other hand, the ERP software is particularly noteworthy for its comprehensive and multi-functional capabilities, such as its modules for monitoring and evaluation, project management, e-administration, e-procurement, e-auditing, e-accounting, and full notification integration with email, WhatsApp, and SMS. With their breadth and depth, these features allow users to automate various administrative processes, reducing manual workloads and enhancing efficiency.

Prof. Owunari Georgewill, Vice Chancellor, the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Prof. Owunari Georgewill, Vice Chancellor, the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

To announce these innovations, the center’s leadership visited the Association of African Universities (AAU) secretariat in Accra, Ghana, on February 29, 2024. The visit aimed to present and demonstrate its newly launched tools to AAU, the Regional Facilitation Unit for the ACE Impact project, and to gather feedback from the project’s implementation support team.

“The ERP Software and Grievance Redress Platform are products of ACE-CEFOR’s dedicated ICT Research and Development Unit,” the center’s Head of ICT/Safeguard Officer, Mr. Daniel Okon, said. “These tools, along with other custom enterprise software and hardware packages like our Multimedia-based Learning Management System and Proctoring Examination System, have brought ACE-CEFOR and UniPort into the spotlight, both within and outside the ACE Impact project.”

Mr. Daniel Okon, ICT Head and Safeguard Officer, Africa Center of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (ACE-CEFOR), University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Mr. Daniel Okon, ICT Head and Safeguard Officer, Africa Center of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (ACE-CEFOR), University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Mr. Okon noted that through these initiatives, ACE-CEFOR supported UniPort in establishing a virtual learning system, which became extremely useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. The center’s virtual learning system enabled the university to quickly and seamlessly transition to a virtual learning module, necessitated by the pandemic, unlike other Nigerian universities, which relied on the Nigerian Universities Commission’s systems.

This proactive innovation also made ACE-CEFOR the first of the 54 Centers of Excellence to fully transition to virtual learning in 2020. Center Leader Prof. Ikechukwu Ozoemenam Agbagwa emphasized that ACE-CEFOR’s software and hardware packages were intended to become significant sources of internally generated revenue as part of the center’s sustainability plan, especially as the ACE Impact project was set to conclude in June 2025.

Operating on the triple helix model of government-academia-industry partnership, ACE-CEFOR sought AAU’s support to commercialize these products across other African centers of excellence and universities. AAU’s Senior Program Manager in charge of the ACE Impact project, Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, praised ACE-CEFOR for developing those homegrown solutions to ease complex project implementation processes. She was optimistic that other African centers of excellence and higher education institutions would be interested in the tools to improve their project management processes and even inspire them to develop more innovative solutions under the ACE Impact project.

Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, Senior Program Manager in charge of ACE Impact Project, Association of African Universities
Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, Senior Program Manager in charge of ACE Impact Project, Association of African Universities

In 2023, ACE-CEFOR implemented the e-procurement module of its ERP software in its procurement processes. Oil firms in Nigeria already use this software, marking a significant milestone in the center’s mission to support the sustainable development of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria and other regional economies where these sectors are critical. This progress also aligns with ACE-CEFOR’s vision to become Africa’s leading center of excellence in oilfield chemicals research.

ACE-CEFOR’s delegation was led by UniPort Vice Chancellor Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill. It included Center Leader Prof. Ikechukwu Ozoemenam Agbagwa, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Mr. Uduma Ikpa, as well as the Head of ICT/Safeguard Officer Mr. Daniel Okon. The four-member delegation was received by AAU’s ACE Impact project team, led by Secretary General Prof. Olusola Bandele Oyewole.

Prof. Olusola Bandele Oyewole, Secretary General, Association of African Universities
Prof. Olusola Bandele Oyewole, Secretary General, Association of African Universities

Looking to the future, ACE-CEFOR seeks to enhance the tools’ functionalities further and position them as flagship resources for simplifying project management in the region. To this end, it is developing a mobile app to facilitate the complex daily tasks of its leader and vice-chancellor and other users, demonstrating the robustness of the center’s ICT Research and Development Unit and its commitment to innovation and efficiency.

ACE Impact showcases institutional impact in supporting global good practices for higher education inclusivity: A case of University of Ghana Enhanced Assertive Technology

In a remarkable step towards inclusivity, the Africa Higher Education Center of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) has bolstered its support for students with disabilities through the University of Ghana as one of its beneficiaries. This inspiring initiative aims to alleviate the pressures on its Assistive Technology Unit, facilitate the academic progress of students with special needs, and integrate them into the university’s ICT training services, crucial for 21st-century technological competence. The ACE Impact recently equipped the Assistive Technology Unit, at the University of Ghana Computing System Office (UGCS), with 20 brand-new, high-specification desktop computers.

This intervention is a crucial step towards fulfilling a significant part of the ACE Impact project’s disbursement-linked result, which provides ACE Impact host institutions the flexibility to pursue activities focused on Institutional Impact based on need and priority. This budgetary allocation was made available to all 36 universities that host at least one of the 54 ACE Impact centers in West Africa and Djibouti, driving substantial impact across the region.

The University of Ghana’s initiative enhances its capacity to support students and faculty and exemplifies its commitment to adopting global best practices in higher education. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability. In Africa, this percentage is slightly higher due to factors such as health conditions, conflict, limited access to health care, infrastructure accessibility, training support, policy environment, and lack of funding.

The University of Ghana, which hosts three ACE Impact centers; the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), the West Africa Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC), chose this intervention after careful consideration of UGCS’s inclusive services and their potential impact on the community services, patrons, and humanity, at large, according to Joy Lamptey, Project Lead for ACE Impact Project, University of Ghana’s Office of Institutional Advancement.

 

Evolution of the Assistive Technology Unit

Established in 2006, the University of Ghana’s Assistive Technology Unit exemplifies the institution’s proactive approach to addressing the needs of visually impaired students. This unit was created in response to numerous requests from concerned students and a comprehensive needs assessment, which highlighted an urgent need to integrate visually impaired students into ICT-related academic activities. The assessment revealed that these students were completely excluded from accessing ICT education and its numerous benefits despite mandatory ICT fees. The unit was thus set up to provide basic ICT skills and support academic activities for visually impaired students, ensuring their inclusion in the digital learning environment.

The establishment of the assistive technology unit in 2006, thus, brought some relief and novelty to the beneficiary visually impaired students. However, the effectiveness of the unit diminished

over time as the traditional system of reading and writing with Braille alone, which the unit initially adopted, proved to be inefficient, particularly during examinations. According to Alexandar Bankole Williams, the Coordinator at the University of Ghana Computing System’s Assistive Technology Unit, who himself is visually impaired, “most initial beneficiary visually impaired students who used the braille for examinations would complain of being awarded low grades and blame the situation on poor transcription and translation of their examination responses,”

The unit responded to this growing concern in 2014 with a few computers; one screen reader, a software application to transform on-screen information into speech or braille to complement the use of only braille; and four desktop video magnifiers, also known as Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) magnifiers, to help low vision people to read, view images, and achieve other daily tasks that require magnification. Subsequently, it also installed other assistive technology gadgets, such as non-visual desktop access (NVDA) to help blind and very low vision students access and interact with the Windows Operating System and Applications, and a ZoomText Screen Magnifier to aid those with some appreciable sight to see and read properly. To be more inclusive, the unit also installed other assistive technology gadgets, such as headphones, and put in other necessary measures to accommodate other students with special needs, such as hearing impairment, physical impairment, and other forms of disability. These connecting devices thus put more pressure on the limited number of computers.

ACE Impact Project’s Timely Intervention

At the WACCBIP Research Conference 2024, Professor Nana Aba Amfo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, highlighted the transformative impact of the ACE Impact project on the university community. She underscored the project’s vital role in enhancing the experiences of both students and faculty, particularly through its focus on digitalization and inclusivity:

“The project has supported initiatives to enhance the UG students’ experience through digitalization,” Professor Amfo noted. “It promotes inclusivity by equipping the assistive technology laboratory, thereby improving the teaching and learning support systems for students, faculty, and staff with disabilities.”

By 2024, the unit’s resources were outdated and insufficient. The ACE Impact project’s allocation in January 2024 brought a much-needed upgrade with 20 high-spec new computers, significantly enhancing the unit’s capacity.

“Before the ACE Impact project’s intervention, we had only ten functioning computers for over 300 registered students with special needs. These new computers will help reduce the long waiting times and improve the overall learning experience,” noted Alexander Bankole Williams, Coordinator of the Assistive Technology Unit.

 

 

Impact on Students

The new equipment has already made a significant impact. “In the past, we struggled to gain sufficient ICT skills,” said Felicia Amoako, a second-year student of Sociology, Social Work, and Religion. “With these new computers, we can now focus on improving our Braille writing skills and enhancing our employability.”

Isaiah Amada-Awuku, studying Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics, echoed this sentiment. “Having more access to these computers has boosted our self-esteem and self-confidence. We are now less dependent on others and can learn at our own time and pace.”

Future Needs and Expansion

Despite these improvements, challenges remain. The 28-seater space in the UGCS office is insufficient for the growing number of students. Mr. Williams highlighted the need for additional support: “We have a 40-seater space upstairs that is currently inaccessible due to the lack of an elevator or ramps. We need more assistive technological devices to fully empower our students with special needs.” Hence, they are confined to the ground floor, which has limited seating capacity and equipment.

The unit also needs financial resources to purchase more assistive technological devices. “With these devices in place, we will empower the special-needs students with the needed ICT skills and even encourage others who feel embarrassed by the situation to own up. We need more assistive technological devices for our students with special needs,” Mr. Williams emphasized.

Broader Impact and Commitment

The university is committed to strengthening its Office of Institutional Advancement to effectively implement activities related to institutional impact. In line with this commitment, the university has other impactful activities, such as strengthening internet connectivity and enhancing online learning management. Ultimately, these efforts align with the ACE Impact project’s goals of leveraging cross-border teaching opportunities and supporting the university’s regional strategy.

Conclusion

The University of Ghana’s proactive measures, supported by the ACE Impact World Bank grant, demonstrate a robust commitment to inclusivity in higher education. By enhancing its Assistive Technology Unit and other institutional capacities, the university is not only addressing the immediate needs of its students with disabilities but also setting a benchmark for other institutions in the region.

Towards Africa’s Future: How University of Ghana ACE Impact Centres are Leading the Way

Background

The Africa Centers of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE-Impact) project was launched five years ago by the World Bank and French Development Agency to increase the impact of existing ACEs under the first phase of the ACE initiative, that is, the ACE I project, and extend the initiative to more centers. Thus, the project has since 2019 been supporting 54 centers in 35 universities across eleven countries Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo—to improve and accelerate the quality, quantity, and development impact of postgraduate education in five main areas, STEM, agriculture, health, environment, applied social science, and education.

Ghana hosts nine such centers: three each at the University of Ghana, Legon, in Accra and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, and one each at the University of Cape Coast in Cape Coast, the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Sunyani, and the University for Development Studies in Tamale.

Dr. Edmund Aalandong, Head of Policy and Planning at Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, announcing the Commission’s plan to set a platform for the Ghana ACE Impact centres to showcase their remarkable achievements and tangible impacts
Dr. Edmund Aalandong, Head of Policy and Planning at Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, the agency facilitating the implementation of the nine ACE Impact centres in Ghana

These ACE-Impact centers, globally recognized for their unique focus on postgraduate education and research in STEM, agriculture, health, and environment, continue leading the way in Africa’s transformative, sustainable impact. This article shines a light on the forward-thinking initiatives and exceptional accomplishments of the University of Ghana’s ACE centers—the West African Center for Crop Improvement (WACCI), West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and West Africa Genetic Medicine Center (WAGMC)—in driving agricultural innovation, scientific research, and genetic medicine in Africa. It emphasizes the centers’ crucial role in producing highly skilled professionals, fostering international collaborations, and contributing to economic development and food security across the continent. The narrative explores how these centers are making significant strides in their respective fields and paving the way for sustainable growth and development in Africa through strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and comprehensive sustainability plans.

The West African Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI)

The West African Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) has produced 111 PhDs, 38 of whom, representing one-third, are females. This ratio aligns with the World Bank’s value of inclusiveness and ACE Impact’s requirement for gender balance. These 111 PhD graduates are not from Ghana alone but from 15 different African countries, demonstrating the centers’ regional reach.

Through its community outreach program, WACCI has engaged and positively impacted about 5,500 farmers and made 53 successful agricultural entrepreneurs. It has also supported over a million farmers in 10 countries to improve almost 300 crop varieties, a testament to its agrarian innovation. Through its viable public-private partnerships, WACCI has scaled up the seeds of several food crops, such as soybean, tomato, and maize.

In showcasing its academic and research prowess, WACCI has spearheaded numerous faculty-led research, mainly focusing on cassava, cowpea, Frafra potato, Bambara groundnut, sorghum, maize, and rice, underscoring its commitment to scientific advancement and ensuring food security in Ghana and Africa. As a research leader, WACCI has also championed over 260 student-led publications in high-impact journals. Besides, along with its alums, the center has attracted over 100 million dollars to the sub-region, highlighting its economic impact.

WACCI’s remarkable achievements have been recognized locally, regionally, and globally for contributing to food security and outstanding agribusiness academic and research leadership. For instance, the Chicago Council on Global Affairs has acknowledged the WACCI model as a model to replicate (2009, 2013 Reports).

WACCI

WACCI’s impactful journey in enhancing crop varieties, improving agricultural productivity, and ensuring food security in Africa being presented to a joint team from the World Bank, the Association of African Universities, and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission
WACCI’s impactful journey in enhancing crop varieties, improving agricultural productivity, and ensuring food security in Africa being presented to a joint team from the World Bank, the Association of African Universities, and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission

As a member of the African Academy of Agricultural Sciences, WACCI collaborates with international institutions in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Uganda to undertake initiatives such as research fellowships, faculty development, projects, mentorship programs, exchange programs, and grantsmanship.

WACCI’s new focus is to consolidate its enviable academic and research leadership position in agriculture and sustain its impact on Africa’s population. With the launch of WACCI 3.0 in April 2024, the center is on a forward match to cultivating more global partnerships for Africa’s agricultural renaissance by continually contributing to food security and ensuring sustainable agriculture. WACCI also plans to foster strategic alliances with international academic and research communities, such as Cornell University and Danforth in the United States and others in Zurich, the Netherlands, and Kenya. These partnerships and collaborations all neatly fit into its sustainability plan.

As a sustainability plan, WACCI proposes a five-point strategy comprising a five-year Strategic Plan (2024-2029), a 50-million-dollar Endowment Fund, Sustainability Funding Models (such as Research-Intensive Centre, Public-Public and Private-Public Partnerships), Resource Mobilization and Communication Strategies, and making a compelling case to African governments and development partners to invest in the WACCI model.

Meanwhile, WACCI is mobilizing resources to create its proposed endowment fund, attract outstanding students to ACEs, attract and retain high-quality staff, and increase the relevance of ACEs in communities, nations, and the world.

The West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP)

Established in 2014 to support cutting-edge health research in Africa, the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) has produced 37 PhDs, serving in various roles in postdoctoral fellowship, academia, public sector health institutions, and industry. The center has also churned out 105 master’s graduates, half of whom are pursuing PhDs, and the remaining are in various roles in academia, research institutions, and industry.

WACCBIP has been providing long-term training to young scientists from 18 countries across Africa to develop into research leaders as part of its effort to contribute to building Africa’s scientific capacity. So far, it has produced 400 such fellows, comprising 227 master’s fellows, 121 PhD fellows, and 52 postdoctoral fellows, exceeding the ACE Impact project’s requirement of 1:3 gender ratio.

WACCBIP’s contribution to health research in Africa became even more impactful in the heat of the 2019 global COVID-19 pandemic when the center conducted several immunological, serological, virological, and molecular epidemiological studies and published original research and feature articles in high-impact journals. Funded by the UK AID, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the FCDO, it also screened about 50,000 people in Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria.

WACCBIP’s Director, Prof. Gordon Awandare, explaining the center’s significant contribution to building a robust scientific research capacity in Africa
WACCBIP’s Director, Prof. Gordon Awandare, explaining the center’s significant contribution to building a robust scientific research capacity in Africa

To maintain its leadership position, center leaders, faculty, and staff are working to build a three-floor building complex with essential fittings and auxiliary facilities, a leaning and interaction center, a pergola, and land valued at 1 million dollars.

Beyond the World Bank, WACCBIP has attracted funding from other international entities like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and Research Councils UK; regional entities like the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), The African Academy of Sciences, and Crick African Network; and national entities like the Government of Ghana, Tiba Ghana, and Ghana Health Service.

The West Africa Genetic Medicine Center (WAGMC)

Since its establishment, the West Africa Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) has made significant strides in addressing the genetic health challenges facing many African countries as a pioneering institution in sub-Saharan Africa. As the first genetic counseling center in the region, WAGMC has been at the forefront of providing essential genetic testing and counseling services, focusing on reducing the high incidence of sickle cell disease births in Ghana and Africa.

By offering genetic testing and counseling, the center has provided critical support to families affected by genetic disorders, particularly sickle cell diseases. The center’s work has been instrumental in identifying carriers of the sickle cell gene and providing counseling to help manage and reduce the high incidence of this debilitating condition. Despite the center’s relatively recent establishment, its services have already impacted many lives, offering hope and improved health outcomes.

WAGMC’s impact extends beyond individual patient outcomes to broader healthcare and research advancements. By integrating genetic testing into the healthcare system, the center has paved the way for more personalized and effective treatment plans. Its research contributions have enhanced the understanding of genetic disorders prevalent in the region, informing public health strategies and interventions.

Regarding capacity building and inclusivity, WAGMC has made concerted efforts to support and empower scientists and researchers, with a deliberate focus on female scientists and researchers, which aligns with the World Bank’s inclusive values. The center has fostered a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging women to pursue careers in genetic medicine and research. This commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the center’s training program and collaborative projects prioritizing gender equality and empowerment.

A joint team comprising the leadership of the ACE Impact project at the regional and national levels visited WAGMC to have first-hand information on the center’s achievements and impacts in the genetic medicine space
A joint team comprising the leadership of the ACE Impact project at the regional and national levels visited WAGMC to have first-hand information on the center’s achievements and impacts in the genetic medicine space

WAGMC’s achievements and impacts have been bolstered by its strategic partnerships and collaborations. Although it operates independently of an academic department, it collaborates closely with various departments within the University of Ghana, such as the School of Public Health. These collaborations have enabled the center to extend its impact beyond its immediate remit, supporting students and researchers from other departments and fostering an interdisciplinary approach to genetic medicine. With the significant impact it is already making in genetic medicine, researchers and faculty members are confident the center will make an even greater impact with the needed facilities.

One of WAGMC’s significant challenges has been the absence of comprehensive tumor sequencing capabilities in Ghana. This gap has led to higher rates of undiagnosed genetic conditions and increased the cost of detection and treatment, costing the lives of the teeming population who cannot afford it. In response to this alarming phenomenon, WAGMC has plans to build a robust genetic testing infrastructure. This initiative aims to enhance early diagnosis and efficient treatment of genetic disorders, thereby reducing the overall burden of these conditions on affected families and the healthcare system.

The West Africa Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) is setting ambitious and comprehensive goals to revolutionize genetic healthcare in Africa. These plans include establishing advanced genetic testing facilities, enhanced training programs for genetic counselors and researchers, and expanded public outreach to educate communities about genetic health. By pursuing these objectives, WAGMC aims to significantly strengthen its contributions to genetic medicine in Africa.

WAGMC’s ultra-modern building complex under construction aimed to support the early diagnosis and efficient treatment of genetic disorders
WAGMC’s ultra-modern building complex under construction aimed to support the early diagnosis and efficient treatment of genetic disorders

Recognizing the need for these and even further development, WAGMC is appealing to the World Bank and other international donors for support. The center highlights its unique position and the substantial impact it has already made, seeking consideration for inclusion in future iterations of the ACE initiative.

WAGMC stands as a beacon of progress in genetic healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. Its achievements in genetic testing, counseling, and research have significantly impacted the lives of many individuals and families. As WAGMC continues to grow and develop, its contributions to genetic medicine and public health are poised to expand, offering a brighter future for genetic healthcare in Africa. With continued support and strategic partnerships, WAGMC is well-positioned to address the region’s genetic health challenges.

Conclusion

The ACE-Impact project has brought transformative progress to postgraduate education and research in West Africa. At the forefront of this transformation are the University of Ghana’s ACE centers: the West African Center for Crop Improvement (WACCI), the West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and the West Africa Genetic Medicine Center (WAGMC). These centers have made remarkable strides in their respective fields, driving agricultural innovation, cutting-edge health research, and genetic medicine.

 

WACCI has significantly advanced agricultural productivity, producing numerous PhDs, engaging thousands of farmers, and supporting the improvement of hundreds of crop varieties across the continent. WACCBIP has been pivotal in health research, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and continues to build scientific capacity through extensive training programs. WAGMC, as a pioneering genetic counseling center, has made critical contributions to genetic healthcare, offering essential testing and counseling services and aiming to build a robust genetic testing infrastructure.

These centers have fostered strategic partnerships, both locally and internationally, which have enhanced their research capabilities and impact. Their efforts have led to academic and scientific achievements and contributed to Africa’s economic development and food security. The ongoing and planned initiatives, such as the launch of WACCI 3.0 and the establishment of advanced genetic testing facilities at WAGMC, are set to further consolidate their leadership positions and ensure sustainable development.

In sum, the University of Ghana’s ACE-Impact centers exemplify the transformative impact of the ACE-Impact project. Their achievements underscore the importance of strategic partnerships, resource mobilization, and comprehensive sustainability plans in driving progress. As these centers continue to grow and develop, they are well-positioned to lead the charge in addressing the region’s agricultural, health, and genetic challenges, ultimately empowering Africa’s future. With continued support and collaboration, the vision of sustainable growth and development in Africa is not achievable but imminent.

Paulino Baptista: Shaping a sustainable Future for coastal tourism in Cape Verde

Amidst the captivating vistas of the West African archipelago of Cape Verde lies a thriving coastal tourism industry, vital for both employment and economic prosperity. According to a 2021 report by UNCTAD Development and Globalization, coastal tourism contributes to an average of 35% of jobs, and 25% GDP of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). In Cape Verde, coastal tourism is responsible for half (46.8%) of employment in Cape Verde and 25% of the country’s GDP in 2019 (Statista). Climate change looms large over Cape Verde’s picturesque shores, threatening a thriving vital sector.

With such heavy reliance on coastal tourism industry, the impact of climate change poses a serious threat to the industry. Recognizing the urgent need for resilience in the face of environmental challenges, and the risks associated with continuous sea level rise, Mr. Paulino Baptista Dias Jesus embarked on a transformative journey supported by the ACE Impact project. Hailing from Cape Verde, Paulino seized the opportunity provided by the Africa Center of Excellence for Coastal Resilience (ACECoR) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in Ghana to pursue a PhD in Blue Economy, Governance, and Social Resilience.

With a background in economic sciences and global management, Paulino is spearheading groundbreaking research into the intersection of climate change perception and investment decision-making in coastal tourism destinations within Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Cape Verde. His mission is clear: to empower decision-makers with the insights needed to foster climate-resilient businesses and safeguard the future of coastal communities.

Understanding and fostering climate-resilient businesses within the coastal tourism industry is crucial for mitigating risks posed by climate change. By gaining insights into investors’ perceptions of climate vulnerability, we can design effective policies and financing strategies to bolster the resilience of the tourism sector, safeguarding businesses, jobs, and promoting sustainable economic growth.

Having studied economic sciences and global management respectively for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, with his current research, Paulino is assessing investors’ perceptions about climate change drivers and plausible future impacts in three coastal tourism destinations in Cape Verde. Paulino’s approach is holistic, encompassing stakeholder engagement, data analysis, and knowledge dissemination. to achieve his vision, he will map all relevant entities within the tourism industry in Cape Verde, design tailored data collection tool, conduct data analysis, and disseminate his findings on multiple platforms.

He strongly believes by doing so, he will help create a buoyant tourism industry, safeguarding jobs, sustaining regular cashflows, and ultimately enhancing economic growth along the coast of SIDS.

By collaborating with local entities and leveraging his internship with Biosfera1, a leading NGO dedicated to marine conservation in Cape Verde, he has gained firsthand insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the blue economy. Collaborating with Biosfera1, Paulino contributed to vital projects on fostering sustainable entrepreneurship in coastal communities.

This practical experience has not only enriched his academic pursuits but also propelled him into a leadership role within Biosfera1 with his appointment as a non-executive member of board of directors of Biosfera1, further amplifying his impact.

Supported by the ACE Impact project, Paulino’s journey extends beyond academia. His expertise is now sought after by international organizations like The World Bank Group, Luxembourgh Development Agency, and the United Nations, where he advises on policies and interventions to address the climate crisis in coastal tourism. Armed with a deep understanding of both the scientific and practical aspects of sustainability, Paulino is poised to shape a brighter future for coastal communities across sub-Saharan Africa.

Advancing Sustainable Mining Practices: The role of CEA MEM

According to a 2017 World Bank report on the growing role of minerals and metals for a low carbon future, mineral production could increase by fivefold to meet an estimated demand of 3 billion tons by 2050. While this burgeoning demand promises economic opportunities, it also underscores the imperative for responsible mining practices to mitigate adverse effects on communities and ecosystems, leading to health challenges to people and places.  As a result, responsible mining practices aimed at fostering sustainable development has become a paramount concern for industry stakeholders and holds significant interest among development partners.

The Africa Center of Excellence in Mining and Mining Environment (CEA MEM) one of 53 World Bank-funded centers of excellence, since its inception in 2017, CEA MEM has been spearheading strategic initiatives aimed at minimizing the negative impact of mining on the environment while maximizing the benefits for mineral-rich African nations. The center has been forming global, regional, and national research partnerships and scientific networks to ensure Africa undertakes responsible mining activities and attains a sustainable mining environment.

To broaden its impact in the mining sector, CEA MEM has forged partnerships with various institutions crucial to achieving its core objectives. These collaborations encompass mining companies and other entities sharing similar aims with the Center. One notable partnership is with the Institute of Research Development (IRD), where CEA MEM is one of the three institutions under the thematic network for Responsible Mining and Sustainable Development (AMR2D). Collaborating with co-centers CEA MS in Guinea and CEA EM in Niger, CEA MEM has executed significant interventions including capacity-building initiatives for key stakeholders, organizing and participating in several summits, workshops, and other events through the ACE Partner project.

Through its partnership with IRD and under the RAMR2D network of the ACE Partner project, CEA MEM in June 2021 participated in a mining boot camp in Niger’s capital city of Niamey. Themed, Multi-scale Approaches to the Impacts of Artisanal and Industrial Gold Mining in West Africa, the bootcamp provided a platform for academic and research exchange, bringing together stakeholders from other centers, countries, civil society representatives, mining companies, and small-scale mines to deliberate on responsible mining practices for sustainable development.

The high-level meeting culminated in the Niamey Declaration of 11 June 2021 for Responsible and Sustainable Development, outlining five key action points for advancing responsible mining practices, with CEA MEM as a signatory. (1) building bridges for multi-stakeholder dialog; (2) understanding the issue of mining through an interdisciplinary, inclusive, inter-ODD, and co-developed approach; (3) identifying and sharing innovative solutions for a community of practitioners; (4) rethinking the regulatory framework for mining through this multi-holder approach and within a regional logic; and (5) formalizing and monitoring the appropriate indicators for responsible mining.

This declaration serves as a strategy for monitoring actions and formalizing the community of experts and practitioners committed to responsible mining as a vehicle for sustainable development.

Additionally, CEA MEM has established a robust partnership with the Union of Small Mines in Cote d’Ivoire (SYN-GPMACI). Through this collaboration, CEA MEM provides scientific support to small mines aiming to optimize their production and implement best mining practices.

Leveraging international platforms, CEA MEM advocated for environmentally sustainable mining practices. For instance, in September 2021 the Centre actively participated in the World Conservation Summit, organized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)contributing to the drafting of the IUCN Motion 67, an initiative aimed at reducing the impact of mining on biodiversity.

CEA MEM’s dedication to a sustainable mining environment was further showcased at COP15 in Abidjan. Through participation in special sessions, the Center addressed the role of sustainable mining activities in combating desertification in West Africa.

Capacity building engagement with partners through the ACE Partner Project
Capacity building engagement with partners through the ACE Partner Project

The center took part in two special sessions of the summit, themed: “Sustainable Mining Activities as a Tool against Desertification in West Africa” and “Shaping Enabling Conditions for Sustainable Interventions towards Drought Resilience in Africa Drylands: Intersecting Views.” This was made possible with the support of IRD as part of the ACE Partner project.

Furthermore, CEA MEM collaborates with German Cooperation (GIZ) to organize a series of workshops under various themes in sustainable mining, such as  (1) a multi-stakeholder dialog workshop on local content in Yamoussoukro, bringing together a representative group of mining stakeholders at all scales and sharing experiences; (2) a workshop on local mining; and (3) a workshop on mine site rehabilitation, within the INP-HB initiative. The center has also championed a workshop on small-scale mines with SYN-GPMPACI on the theme, “Collaboration between Public, Private, and Academic Actors for the Improvement of Small-Scale Mine Management in Cote d’Ivoire: Contributions of the Scientific Community for Mining Entrepreneurship at the Service of Economic and Social Development?” and a workshop on small-scale mines, themed: “Scientific and Administrative Support to Accelerate the Responsible Contribution of ASMs in National Pold production?”

In April 2022, CEA MEM co-organized the inaugural edition of ‘Mining the Connections’ conference in Canada, facilitating knowledge exchange among mining researchers and educators worldwide. The conference was organized in collaboration with the MinErAL, network, the LMI AMIR, and the SESAN laboratory.

Regionally, CEA MEM actively participates in high level panel discussions in a series of sub-regional meetings, providing scientific support for the implementation of responsible mining practices across various scales. As a higher education institution, CEA- MEM prioritizes training a skilled workforce to ensure sustainable mining practices at national, regional and global level. The Centre, at the national level co-supervises theses on sustainable and responsible mining approaches and has doctoral students from other African countries: Guinea, Niger, Benin, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The center takes an active part in the security and Gold Project in Cote d’Ivoire (SECORCI), training the first cohort of smallholder miners from the communities of Papara and Zanikaha, for the proper implementation of artisanal gold production. Lastly, CEA MEM is supporting the Kokumbo and Angovia communities with research activities covering the field of biodiversity protection, phytoremediation on soils, anthropological and sociological aspects and more. As part of the small green mine concept, CEA MEM is undertaking a study to propose measures for protecting watersheds from uncontrolled mining activities, contributing to the protection of larger aquatic systems like River Niger.

RWESCK Pioneers Digital Transformation and Sustainable Solutions in Water and Environmental Sanitation

In the pursuit of water and environmental sustainability, the need for key interventions and innovations is not just a necessity, but a collective responsibility. The Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre Kumasi (RWESCK) stands at the forefront, continuously raising the bar in water and sanitation innovation. Through tailored interventions, RWESCK is dedicated to achieving water and environmental sustainability through digital skills development training, international certification, and ground-breaking technological inventions.

RWESCK Digital Skills Development

Digital skills development workshop
Digital skills development workshop

RWESCK has been harnessing IT expertise to train and empower a critical mass of professionals essential for pioneer sustainable solutions in water and environmental sanitation. One of its flagship interventions includes a cutting-edge, state-of-the-art digital skills development program. The program has trained individuals in the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data analytics, and digital literacy, all tailored to revolutionize the water and sanitation sector. In collaboration with AgroParisTech and other French partners, and with generous

GSA and RWESCK Management Staff at the partnership development meeting
GSA and RWESCK Management Staff at the partnership development meeting

funding from the French Embassy in Ghana, RWESCK has not only provided skills development but has also catalyzed a transformative shift in Ghana’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. Powered by technologies like AI, big data, and IoT, the initiative aims to reshape the delivery of WASH services in the country. Since 2019, RWESCK has successfully trained more than 70 Ph.D. candidates and over 125 MSc students in the field of water and sanitation management, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals for the future.

 

ISO 17025 Certification of RWESCK Lab: A Collaborative Endeavour with Ghana Standards Authority

In line with its commitment to conducting world-class research and elevating laboratory services to international standards, RWESCK has invested in state-of-the-art equipment. The centre is currently collaborating with the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to attain ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification for it’s advanced laboratory facilities. This certification will enable the center to provide valuable support to commercial entities and significantly advance research in the water and sanitation sectors.

 

Innovative Rotary Dryer Technology for Food Waste Processing

The center’s continued focus on nurturing students capable of developing innovative and sustainable solutions has led to the creation of a revolutionary rotary dryer. Spearheaded by Mr. Joseph Kwarko-Kyei, a Master’s degree alumnus of RWESCK, this ingenious device addresses food waste management challenges.

A showcase of the Rotary Dryer developed by Mr. Joseph Kwarko-Kyei with support from RWESCK
A showcase of the Rotary Dryer developed by Mr. Joseph Kwarko-Kyei with support from RWESCK

The dryer efficiently collects food waste, dries it, and then mills it into powder, which can be utilised as animal feed. The device is used to tackle waste management concerns while providing an eco-friendly alternative to chemical feeds. Beyond waste management, the dryer holds broader applications, including the production of organic fertilizers, thereby reducing Ghana’s reliance on imports.

These sustainable interventions stand as a testament to RWESCK’s dedication to fostering innovation while addressing real-world challenges in water and environmental sanitation.

Transforming Sanitation in Burkina Faso: The 2iE’s Revolutionary Approach to Ending Open Defecation

Introduction

Access to proper sanitation and a clean environment is more than a health concern; it is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The United Nations recognizes access to clean water, sanitation, and health (WASH) as a human right and a crucial aspect of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, with only about five years remaining, the achievement of this all-important SDG target seems unattainable, mainly owing to bad environmental practices such as open defecation. Open defecation – the act of disposing of human waste (called excreta) in open places rather than using a proper toilet facility – is a pervasive issue, particularly in rural Africa. In Burkina Faso, for instance, despite a general decline in open defecation (from 71.42% in 2000 to 47.98% in 2015), a staggering 65% of rural families still practiced open defecation as of 2023, underscoring the urgent need for action. The consequences of open defecation are severe and include the spread of diseases such as cholera and diarrhea, environmental pollution, and the contamination of water sources, which collectively hinder community development and overall health improvement.

 The 2iE’s Innovative Intervention

In addressing this environmental challenge latrine toilets have been identified as a cost-effective and potent solution for mitigating the incidence of open defecation and its associated mortality.  However, according to UNICEF, the financial resources required to construct and maintain latrine toilets are beyond the reach of most rural areas.  Currently, only 12% of rural inhabitants of Burkina Faso can afford and thus access a functioning latrine toilet. Consequently, the majority continue to practice open defecation, thereby endangering the health and safety of all, particularly vulnerable populations such as children, girls, and women.  In a bid to deal with this issue and realize the vision of an open defecation free country, the Center of Excellence for Engineering, Water, and Environment (CEA-2iE), one of five World Bank-initiated centers of excellence in Burkina Faso, has intervened to change the narrative and bring some respite to the country. The 2iE’s approach to dealing with open defecation has been unique. It collect’s the human waste from the environment, adds value to it, and ensures it is properly managed, recycled and utilized, rather than discarded in a hazardous way or left unattended. In collaboration with partners – Joseph Ki-Zerbo University (UJKZ) and the Research Institute of Applied Sciences and Technologies (IRSAT), both in Burkina-Faso, the center has facilitated the implementation of an excreta collection and treatment system in two villages, Nougou and Boussouma, located in the commune of Koubri. This system includes a compost toilet and a sanitation pit.

Compost bioreactor for processing the human waste to compost
Compost bioreactor for processing the human waste to compost

The compost toilet, also known as a compotoilet, is an ecological dry toilet featuring a defecation cabin and a bioreactor. The defecation cabin serves as the toilet, collecting all excreta, while the bioreactor functions as a chamber that biologically converts organic matter into mineral matter. The resulting compost, a by-product of this process, is utilized by rural Burkinabe communities as organic fertilizer for their farms and family vegetable gardens, enhancing plant growth and increasing agricultural yield.

Acceptance/Impact of the Technology

A performance and acceptability evaluation of the toilet and a quality test of the compost by the institute have produced highly favorable results, marking the success and impact of this strategic and timely intervention, thanks to the center’s participatory approach to the process. This remarkable feat has thus inspired the center to take another bold stride and extend this initiative to other communities in need. With the broad aim of technology transfer, the center has developed a comprehensive guide to raise awareness among those communities and provide training on the technical and operational aspects of constructing and using this ecological and environmentally friendly technology.  The guide also covers the conditions for reclaiming sanitation by-products from the compost toilet. By following the instructions in this training guide, the center aims to ensure efficient operation and proper maintenance of the technology, contributing to a sustainable environment. Scientific studies have shown that improved sanitation can reduce the transmission of enteric pathogens and intestinal parasites, decreasing morbidity and mortality, especially in children (Mara, 2017). CEA-2iE believes that ensuring a universal, sustainable, clean, and healthy environment is crucial across all development aspects, as outlined in the SDGs. In addition to the obvious benefits such as improved health and well-being offers to the population, the center is confident that availing this essential amenity of safe and clean toilets to them will also contribute to the accomplishment of other SDGs. For example, access to clean and safe toilets can enhance educational outcomes, aligning with SDG4, and reduce gender disparities, as targeted by SDG5.  Besides, access to clean water and sanitation directly impacts economic growth (SDG 6).

The compost produced using 2iE’s innovative technology can further be used as organic fertilizer for gardening as well as agricultural, aquacultural, and horticultural activities to help increase farm yields, end hunger, achieve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture, in line with SDG2. By supporting rural Burkina Faso to eventually eradicate open defecation, better manage the excreta, and achieve food security, 2iE is also significantly contributing to achieving the objectives of the ‘Programme National d’Assainissement des Eaux Usées et Excreta (PN-AEUE) 2016-2030′, a national programme aimed at improving public health and environmental conditions through the implementation of effective wastewater and excreta management systems.

 

Compost made from human waste
Compost made from human waste

Conclusion

The challenge of open defecation in rural Africa, particularly in Burkina Faso, presents significant health and environmental risks that hinder sustainable development. The 2iE’s innovative approach, utilizing compost toilets and an excreta collection and treatment system, has demonstrated a practical and impactful solution. This intervention addresses immediate sanitation needs and contributes to broader goals such as agricultural productivity, food security, and public improvements.

Through strategic partnerships and community involvement, the 2iE has successfully implemented this technology in two villages, highlighting its potential for wider adoption. Producing compost from human waste offers an environmentally friendly fertilizer alternative, aligning with SDG2 on promoting sustainable agriculture. Moreover, the initiative supports several other SDGs, including enhancing educational attainment, reducing gender inequalities, and fostering economic growth.

As the 2iE extends its efforts to other communities, the promise of a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment becomes increasingly attainable. By continuing to innovate and collaborate, the 2iE is transforming sanitation in Burkina Faso and paving the way for similar advancements across the continent. With ongoing support and adherence to best practices, eradicating open defecation and achieving universal access to adequate sanitation can move from a distant goal to a tangible reality.

Empowering Higher Education Excellence in Ghana: A Transformative Visit to University of Ghana ACE Impact Centres

On Friday, May 31, a team from the Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence for Development Impact (ACE Impact) Regional Facilitation Unit at the Secretariat of the Association of African Universities (AAU) joined their colleagues from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and the World Bank to embark on a crucial working visit to the three African Centres of Excellence at the University of Ghana, in Accra, Ghana.

The visit presented a unique and invaluable opportunity for the centres to share updates on their progress and challenges in line with project implementation.  More significantly, it allowed the team to gain direct insights into the impactful activities and remarkable results the centres had achieved. Through their presentations, the centres highlighted their commitment to innovation by sharing their outputs and impacts at institutional, regional, and global levels. These impacts are aligned with delivering quality education and addressing developmental challenges through research and innovation.

A projection of WACCI’s contribution to improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in Africa
A projection of WACCI’s contribution to improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in Africa

The centres also acknowledged the contributions of the national and regional facilitation units, GTEC and AAU, respectively, for their support and technical backstopping. In addition, they appreciated the World Bank’s vision for African higher education and its investments in supporting quality education on the continent.

The centres also took a moment to outline their project sustainability strategies, including establishing endowment funds, fostering local and international partnerships and collaborations, commercialising their state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge laboratory equipment, and instituting more capacity-building and training workshops and short courses. They also appealed to the World Bank to continually support them, have them in their new thinking, and ultimately consider their impactful achievements in case of extended opportunities. This way, they were sure of safeguarding the project and consolidating and extending its impact.

The team touring the state-of-the-art scientific laboratories built under the ACE Impact project at the University of Ghana
The team touring the state-of-the-art scientific laboratories built under the ACE Impact project at the University of Ghana

During the tour, the Directors of the three Centres—the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), the West Africa Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), and the West Africa Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC)—showcased their ultra-modern teaching and learning facilities and research laboratories established under the ACE Impact project.

The delegation was impressed by the centres’ significant achievements, particularly in research and their tangible impact on people’s lives through community engagement. Leading the World Bank team, the outgoing ACE Task Team Lead, Dr Ekua Bentil, commended the centre leaders for showing sterling leadership and congratulated all the centres’ members for feats achieved. She also praised the centres for the suit of success stories, especially in achieving gender balance, which is relevant to the project in line with the World Bank’s value of inclusiveness, integrating the ACEs into the University of Ghana structure, and initiating sustainability strategies.

Leadership of the ACE Impact project at the Regional, National, and Centre levels
Leadership of the ACE Impact project at the Regional, National, and Centre levels

Dr Bentil described the University of Ghana Centres of Excellence as among the best-performing centres under the ACE Impact project. She also encouraged them to broker more strategic partnerships and urged them to push even further for more results and even more impact, as Africa’s challenges were not entirely over. Dr Ekua Bentil assured the centres of the Bank’s unwavering support, emphasizing the Bank’s interest in investing in impact-driven initiatives.

Dr. Edmund Aalandong, Head of Policy and Planning at GTEC, the National Facilitation Unit for the ACE Impact project, commended three Centres for their remarkable achievements and significant impact. He hailed these Centres as models worthy of emulation by all tertiary education institutions in Ghana, especially in terms of quality assurance and programme accreditation. Dr. Aalandong pledged the Commission’s steadfast support and commitment to ensuring the project’s sustainability, which is crucial as the project concludes in June 2025.

Dr. Edmund Aalandong, Head of Policy and Planning at Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, announcing the Commission’s plan to set a platform for the Ghana ACE Impact centres to showcase their remarkable achievements and tangible impacts
Dr. Edmund Aalandong, Head of Policy and Planning at Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, announcing the Commission’s plan to set a platform for the Ghana ACE Impact centres to showcase their remarkable achievements and tangible impacts

In line with this commitment, Dr. Aalandong announced the Commission’s plan to hold its inaugural National Tertiary Education Conference in September 2024. This landmark event will invite ministers from the four relevant ministries—Education, Health, Agriculture, and Finance. The conference will provide a platform for the ACEs to present their tailored, innovative models designed to address Africa’s development challenges.

Speaking on behalf of her team, Dr Sylvia Mkandawire, AAU’s Senior Programme Manager in charge of the ACE Impact project, commended the World Bank, GTEC, and especially the leaders, faculty, researchers, staff, and other members of the three centres for their dedication and selfless contributions to their projects’ success. She assured the World Bank and the centres that she would continue to lead a committed team of experts at AAU to provide solid project implementation support for the regional project.

Following the Centre visits, the AAU team hosted the World Bank and GTEC teams at AAU’s Secretariat in Accra, Ghana, for a joyful and memorable celebration. The event had a dual purpose: to formally acknowledge the leadership changes in the ACE Impact project at the World Bank and to bid farewell to the outgoing Task Team Lead (TTL), Dr. Ekua Bentil while welcoming the incoming TTL, Dr. Namrata Tognatta.

AAU celebrating Dr Ekua Bentil for effective leadership and congratulating Dr Namrata Tognatta on her new role at the ACE Impact Task Team Lead at the World Bank
AAU celebrating Dr Ekua Bentil for effective leadership and congratulating Dr Namrata Tognatta on her new role at the ACE Impact Task Team Lead at the World Bank

The atmosphere at AAU’s Secretariat was filled with fond memories and well-wishes as Dr. Bentil, who has worked on the ACE program for nearly ten years, transitions to new professional opportunities within the World Bank. Ms. Nodumo Dhlamini, AAU’s Director of Communication, ICT, and Knowledge Management, spoke on behalf of Secretary-General Olusola Oyewole, lauding Dr. Bentil for her broad vision for Africa, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to quality. She noted that Dr. Bentil’s insistence on high standards once cost AAU a World Bank project but ultimately led to significant improvements and successes.

Having AAU repositioned and strengthened itself over the intervening years, Ms Dhlamini then appealed to the World Bank, through Dr Bentil, to consider the Association and leverage its acquired strength and position as the voice of higher education in Africa to implement more impactful educational projects and programmes in line with the Bank’s grand vision and direction for Africa. She further welcomed Dr. Tognatta and encouraged her to work to the best of her ability to push the project to an even greater height.

For her part, Dr. Bentil appreciated the AAU, emphasising teamwork and cooperation as the hallmark of successful project implementation. She also thanked the AAU’s management and staff, especially the ACE Impact team, for their commitment and dedication to the project.

ACE International Partnership Workshop: Experts Brainstorm Innovative Solutions to Africa’s Water and Agriculture Challenges

In May 2024, the Africa Centres of Excellence (ACE) program held its inaugural international partnership workshop. Over 400 higher-education stakeholders, researchers, and innovators from over 20 countries convened in Mauritius to foster partnerships and chart a sustainable path to Africa’s development, through the ACE program’s contribution. Several sessions were organized according to the ACE initiative’s thematic areas to ensure a well-coordinated workshop and fruitful deliberations. Session III featured a panel discussion focused on the research and innovations being conducted by the Centres of Excellence in the thematic areas of Water and Agriculture. Moderated by Dr Uchechi Obinna, a researcher at the Centre of Expertise Water Technology (CEW), Leeuwarden in The Netherlands, the session aimed to foster an engaging and dynamic discussion on current research, innovation, and partnerships, particularly among the African Centres of Excellence and the European Centres of Excellence in the water and agriculture sectors. 

The esteemed panel of speakers included Prof. Harouna Karambari, Coordinator of the Centre of Excellence for Training and Research in Water Sciences and Technologies, CEA 2iE, Burkina Faso; Prof. Eric Danquah, Director of the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), Ghana; Dr Hans Komakech from the Water Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy Centre for the Futures (WISE FUTURES), Tanzania; and Dr Sera Gondwe from the Centre of Excellence in Transformative Agriculture Commercialisation and Entrepreneurship (TACE), Malawi. The other panelists were Messrs Pieter De Jong from the Wetsus European Centres of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, The Netherlands; Olof Blomqvist from the Climate Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC), Lund University, Sweden; and Matija Zulj, Founder and CEO of the Digital Agriculture Solutions for Agri-Food Value Chain (AGRIVI), a specialized AgTech company that delivers farm management softwares. 

Image of Prof Danquah

The session commenced with a discussion on agriculture and water innovations and emphasised the significance of these areas for development in Africa and globally. 

Speakers from the various participating Centres of Excellence demonstrated strong performances across key performance indicators (KPIs) in these thematic areas. They discussed various topics such as water treatment, digital education, agricultural innovation, and research and their associated challenges, raising concerns about issues related to water, agriculture, and contamination, particularly in regions known for e-waste contamination like Nigeria and Ghana and emphasising the need to explore areas of potential collaborations in addressing these safety and pollution issues. They also discussed the impact of agricultural programmes in West Africa, including specific examples of successful initiatives, partnerships, and future goals, and outlined clear next steps, which emphasised the importance of collaboration, innovation, commercialization, and strategic management in dealing with the related challenges. 

Challenges and Interventions

The panellists highlighted some of Africa’s development challenges. They identified malnutrition, low food production, and hunger as some of the numerous challenges in Africa, revealing that one out of every five Africans suffers from chronic hunger. They also mentioned the impact of climate change, loss of soil fertility, and the barriers to technology adoption in agriculture, especially the cost of technology.  

In tackling Africa’s numerous challenges, especially the issues of malnutrition, low food production, and chronic hunger, the speakers of this all-important session acknowledged the significant contributions of various interventions, such as the establishment of the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) in Ghana, the Regional Centre of Excellence on Avian Sciences (CERSA) in Togo, and other Centres of Excellence in other countries like Cote d’Ivoire, Malawi, Nigeria, Niger, and Senegal. 

The speakers also unanimously emphasised the importance of international partnerships and collaborative research for the centres of excellence to consolidate their contributions and achieve sustainable impact. In terms of these international partnerships and research impact, reference was made to, and lessons drawn from, the success stories of the establishment of Wetsus European Centres of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology and their international collaborations with countries like Kenya and South Africa and partnerships with development organisations like the World Bank Group. 

In his presentation, Wetsus’s Pieter De Jong emphasised the importance of collaborations and partnerships, especially to overcome the barriers to technology adoption in agriculture. He expressed his Centre’s continual commitment to ensuring effective water treatment, enhancing digital education, and supporting appropriate tailor-made technology solutions. To this end, Pieter revealed Wetsus’s imminent plan to launch the World’s first water MBA programme and a special Water-For-All Programme, aimed at enrolling students in solution-oriented programmes in Europe. 

He also outlined the organisation’s plan to work on implementing carbon filters, testing water filters, developing standards, and establishing digital education centres in collaboration with partners to provide safe water and enhance learning opportunities. 

On agricultural innovation and partnerships, Wetsus aims to commercialise crop varieties, support entrepreneurship activities, and leverage regional and international partnerships to enhance agricultural innovation and agribusiness ventures. 

Proposed Solutions and Key Next Steps

For impactful research and innovation in the water and agriculture sectors, the panellists proposed engaging in dialogue and generating ideas in tackling current challenges and fostering future collaborations and partnerships between Africa and Europe. They also emphasized optimism that such collaborations and partnerships between the two continents will occur despite possible financial challenges. 

The panellists outlined some collaboration strategies in research projects, emphasising the need to coordinate research projects and prioritize infrastructure investments to create impact and optimise water systems for better efficiency. They also agreed on the importance of selecting a few strategic research partners and industry collaborators for effective collaborations, emphasising quality over quantity. 

To ensure efficient private-public partnerships and innovation collaboration, participants expressed the need to seek guidance from institutions with experience in forming partnerships to avoid common mistakes and accelerate the commercialisation of innovations. 

In terms of commercialisation of research findings, the speakers discussed the approach of translating research findings into practical applications, identifying innovations, supporting innovations, protecting IPs, and collaborating with partners for commercialisation. The next steps also involved assessing the readiness levels of innovators, supporting them, and moving towards specialisation. The speakers highlighted the importance of partnering with internal and external institutions, focusing on common goals, leveraging partnerships, and identifying value within partners to drive commercialisation. 

The session was a testament to global collaboration for innovative water and agriculture solutions, covering discussions on agriculture and water innovations, and emphasising their significance for development not only in Africa but globally. Panellists shared great insights on the importance of focusing on innovations in these areas, underscoring the shared commitment to addressing the associated global challenges. Clearly there are immense opportunities for ACEs to collaborate and partner among themselves and also with institutions in Europe and elsewhere. 

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