The UK government’s West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH) has launched Sankore, a £1.9 million initiative aimed at boosting innovation and technology across West Africa, particularly in Ghana and Nigeria.
According to the British Deputy Commission’s Office in Lagos, UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, made the announcement at a press conference in Accra, calling for creative proposals from non-profit organisations, including UN agencies.
The Sankore initiative will support the UK government’s partnership with Nigeria and Ghana in science, technology, and innovation. It aims to facilitate the commercialisation of innovative solutions, improve innovation policy, and enhance government’s digital service delivery.
Named after the medieval West African centre of learning, Sankore will establish new partnerships worth up to £1.9 million with non-profit organisations in Ghana or Nigeria.
At the launch of the call for proposals, UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, was quoted as saying, “This initiative is all about how we can work together to strengthen the global technology sector, creating opportunities for rapidly growing economies with lots of potential to compete on the world stage.
“The Sankore grant fosters partnerships at its heart, with a strong message that we go far when we go together.”
Also, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, said the Sankore project was a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria to enhance its innovation landscape.
Mr Nnaji said the country could strengthen its industry-science linkages and develop an enabling policy environment.
He said the partnership underscored a shared commitment to developing practical solutions that lead to sustainable and inclusive growth.
The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, commented, “Sankore exemplifies the UK’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria.”
“The project will build on the UK’s wider efforts to support economic growth, create job opportunities and propel Nigeria’s technology and innovation ecosystem,” Mr Baxter said.
(NAN)
