The United Kingdom government has unveiled a £1.9 million fund aimed at supporting economic growth in Nigeria and Ghana through enhanced technology and innovation.
The funding, announced by the UK’s Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, is part of a new project named “Sankore.” The initiative, spearheaded by the UK’s West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH), is designed to strengthen technology and innovation in both nations, working closely with their respective governments.
According to a statement released by the UK High Commissioner in Abuja, the Sankore project will facilitate economic growth by leveraging science, technology, and innovation. It also aims to improve the commercialization of innovative solutions and enhance government digital service delivery.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra, Lord Collins called for creative proposals from non-profit organizations, including UN agencies, to participate in the project. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating: “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.”
The project is named after “Sankore,” a renowned medieval center of learning in West Africa. It will establish partnerships worth up to £1.9 million with non-profit organizations in Ghana and Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, praised the initiative, stating: “The 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.”
The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, also highlighted the project’s significance, saying: “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 Sankore initiative is expected to build on the UK’s broader efforts to support economic growth and job creation while propelling Nigeria and Ghana’s technology and innovation ecosystems forward.
