Khadijah Aliyu Nigeria
African scientists and health advocates have launched the second edition of the African Voices of Science (AVoS) initiative, a continental platform designed to amplify Africa’s leadership in global health research, development, and innovation (R&D&I).
Led by Senegal-based advocacy organisation Speak Up Africa, the initiative seeks to reposition Africa from being perceived as a passive recipient of externally designed solutions to a driving force in shaping health priorities and scientific breakthroughs.
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The first phase of AVoS was rolled out during the COVID-19 pandemic, when misinformation and distrust in science were widespread.
By highlighting the expertise of 20 African scientists, the initiative restored public trust in science, countered myths, and influenced policy decisions. With a cumulative media reach of more than 500 million people, AVoS demonstrated the power of elevating African expertise.
The newly launched second edition (2024–2026) aims to institutionalize this role, focusing on long-term leadership in health R&D.
The initiative is aligned with the African Health Research Innovation and Development Alliance (AHRIDA) and supported by AMREF Health Africa, in collaboration with SAHTAC, CHReaD, and Speak Up Africa.
“AVoS II is a timely platform to institutionalize Africa’s leadership in health R&D. This is our moment to move beyond dependency and place African-led solutions at the heart of our health sovereignty,” said John Mdluli from SAHTAC, a founding member of AHRIDA.
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Organisers say the initiative comes at a critical time. Africa carries 25% of the global disease burden yet accounts for less than 1% of health expenditure, while donor funding for health continues to decline.
“Health research and innovation must be recognised as the engine of Africa’s transformation. By elevating African expertise, AVoS can unlock new industries, investments, and opportunities for the continent,” said Johnpaul Omollo, Public Health Professional and Health Policy Strategist.
AVoS II brings together leading scientists and advocates from across the continent. Among them are:
Côte d’Ivoire: Dr Raymonde Goudou Coffie, former Minister and Governor of the Autonomous District of Lacs; Dr Safiatou Coulibaly, Pasteur Institute
Kenya: Prof. Thumbi Ndung’u, University College London and AHRI; Dr Robert Karanja, Biolinx Africa
Senegal: Prof. Coumba Touré Kane, Cheikh Anta Diop University; Prof. Anta Tal-Dia, National Academy of Sciences
South Africa: Prof. Ntobeko Ntusi, President of the South African Medical Research Council; Ms Glaudina Loots, Department of Science and Innovation
These champions are expected to influence policies, advocate for the operationalisation of the African Medicines Agency (AMA), and promote investment in African-led R&D.
“With Africa facing declining donor funding yet carrying a quarter of the global disease burden, we must invest in our own health sovereignty.
AVoS ensures African solutions are not just voiced but placed at the centre of our health systems,” said Fara Ndiaye, Co-Founder and Deputy Executive Director of Speak Up Africa.
AVoS leaders are urging African governments, private sector players, and development partners to commit funding for African-led research—not as charity, but as a strategic investment in global health security and economic growth.
“AVoS is not just about amplifying African expertise,” Ndiaye added. “It is about ensuring that African innovations are recognised, resourced, and scaled to meet the needs of our people and the world.”
The initiative will run until 2026, with a focus on building networks of trusted scientific voices, engaging policymakers, and strengthening Africa’s position in the global health research arena.