Research Engagement in Africa: Cost and Challenges

The production of knowledge is essential for global progress. However, some countries are producers of knowledge used globally, while others are mainly consumers of that knowledge. There is a correlation between knowledge production and funding levels for research. Countries in Africa recognise the need to provide research funding at levels that would enhance knowledge production but struggle in balancing many competing needs. African countries have committed to funding research at the level of 1% of their GDP on Research and Development (R&D) which is the recommended percentage to be earmarked for research. However, many countries have not been able to fulfil this. In this paper we did a historical analysis of the literature on the challenges impeding the fulfilment of this mandate which also lays a foundation for our main study. Using the two communities theory, this article X-rayed the lacuna between the policy-makers and the research community in Africa. It equally explored the reasons for the continuing underfunding of research, the impact of research and perceived direct benefit of research outcomes in informing policies and in benefitting the broader society on the African continent.