By Esther Nakkazi
A new herbal anti-malarial drug, a fuel-free incinerator for medical waste in rural areas, and a quick, low-cost dipstick diagnostic test for schistosomiasis—a parasitic disease affecting over half the population in Africa—are among numerous innovations designed to address critical local health challenges.
Yet, these promising products, referred to as "stagnant technologies," remain stuck in Africa’s laboratories. Despite their potential to save lives, they lack the commercialization and marketing support needed to move beyond research and into widespread use.
A recent survey identified 25 such products in health research institutions across Africa. Sixteen are derived from traditional plant-based remedies, while others include new drug molecules, diagnostics, vaccines, and medical devices.
"If Africans are to prevail over diseases, they must unleash the formidable talents of their own scientists and entrepreneurs. Sustainable solutions to Africa's health problems rest with the home team,” said Peter Singer, Director of the McLaughlin-Rotman Centre (MRC) for Global Health in Canada.
Singer emphasized that waiting for external scientists to develop and market solutions tailored to Africa’s health challenges would only delay progress and cost countless lives.
Innovations on Hold
One striking example comes from Makerere University in Uganda, where researchers developed a portable, WHO-approved, fuel-free incinerator for medical waste. Capable of reaching temperatures of 800°C using only medical waste as fuel, this innovation could address the challenge of waste management in rural healthcare facilities, particularly during mass immunization campaigns. However, the incinerator has remained unused on campus for years.
In Kenya, researchers at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) created Sunguprot, a plant-based product from Tylosema fassoglensis, which developers claim can help manage HIV symptoms. Unfortunately, research on the product stalled due to insufficient funding and the lack of advanced equipment needed for isolating compounds and conducting clinical trials.
Meanwhile, at the International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology in Kenya, scientists have patented human odors that repel mosquitoes. This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce malaria transmission, yet further research remains in limbo as it awaits partnerships with multinational companies.
In Ghana, the Centre for Scientific Research into Plant Medicine is developing Nibima, an anti-malarial drug derived from the plant Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Like many African innovations, it faces challenges progressing from the lab to the market.
Success Stories and Lessons Learned
Despite these struggles, some success stories demonstrate what is possible when local innovations receive proper support.
Tanzania’s A to Z Textile Company, for instance, became one of the world’s largest producers of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets. With local funding, economies of scale, technology transfer, and partnerships, the company cost-effectively produced tens of millions of nets annually, overcoming regulatory hurdles and procurement challenges.
Similarly, KEMRI in Kenya constructed a full-scale manufacturing facility for HIV and Hepatitis B diagnostic kits. While the facility initially faced setbacks due to government procurement issues, the institute turned things around by diversifying its product line to include disinfectants and improving its diagnostic kits.
KEMRI also adopted an open innovation business model, fostering partnerships with investors and research collaborators while generating revenue through contract manufacturing. Additionally, it developed a marketing division, established an institutional intellectual property policy, and trained its scientists in innovation management.
These efforts show how research institutions in Africa can transform scientific discoveries into practical health solutions, reducing the continent's health burden and tapping into global markets.
The Way Forward
"Clearly, many Africans have the needed talent and know-how. However, the seeds of their efforts need careful nurturing by both donors and African governments at all levels,” said Ken Simiyu, a researcher at MRC.
Simiyu argues that creative institutions and coherent policies are needed to reduce risks, build on local strengths, and incentivize innovation. Studies suggest that with the right support and partnerships, African scientists and entrepreneurs can tackle local health challenges while fostering economic growth.
A Call to Revive Stagnant Technologies
Research published last month by Canada’s McLaughlin-Rotman Centre for Global Health, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Genome Canada, highlights both the challenges and opportunities for Africa’s innovators. The findings draw from experiences across Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Madagascar, Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, and Uganda.
While many promising technologies remain stuck in limbo, they hold immense potential to save millions of lives and compete in global markets. To realize this potential, stagnant technologies must be revived, supported, and commercialized. Only then can Africa harness its scientific creativity to transform health outcomes for its people.
Ends.
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