Through the West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH) the UK Government has launched Sankore to support economic growth by strengthening technology and innovation across West Africa, in close partnership with country governments.
The Sankore call for proposals will support the UK government’s partnership with governments in Ghana and Nigeria facilitate commercialisation of innovative solutions, improve innovation policy and enhance government digital service delivery. It will establish new partnerships worth up to £1.9 Million with non-profit organisations.
Launching a call for proposals at a press conference in Accra, Lord Collins, UK Minister for Africa, said:
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.
Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji said:
Sankore project is a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria to enhance its innovation landscape, by strengthening industry-science linkages and developing an enabling policy environment. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to developing practical solutions that lead to sustainable and inclusive growth.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, added:
Sankore exemplifies the UK’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria. The project will strengthen partnerships between businesses and innovators as well as drive the development of innovative solutions that address critical gaps in priority economic sectors. 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.