Researchers from the continent are under-represented in papers on topics, such as malaria, that are especially relevant to Africa. Studies have also shown1 that when African authors partner with colleagues in Europe or North America, this under-representation is reinforced. “The aim is African sustainability, development, innovation and ultimately, wealth,” says Simon Connell, a physicist at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, who is involved with the AfLS. Countries in the global south struggle to retain expertise, says Connell, owing to low investment in science. Neba suggests that investments in IGSOs by countries in the global south be tailored to address applied science that seeks to tackle specific problems faced by the African continent.
