Annual Meeting of African Science Academies (AMASA 2024)

Algiers, Algeria – The 2024 Annual Meeting of African Science Academies (AMASA) launched today in Algiers under the theme “Resources, Science & Technology for Development in Africa,” hosted by the Algerian Academy of Science and Technology (AAST) and the Network of African Science Academies (NASAC). The opening ceremony set a bold tone for collaboration, innovation, and action to harness Africa’s potential.

Keynote Speeches Highlight Unity and Innovation
Prof. Mohamed Kara, President of AAST and Co-Chair, opened with a powerful appeal for science and technology to address Africa’s pressing challenges. He stressed the need for “strategic collaboration” across nations and sectors to advance agriculture, energy, and healthcare—critical pillars for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Harnessing innovation in these fields is not optional; it is fundamental to building a resilient and prosperous Africa,” he declared.

Prof. Norbert Hounkonnou, NASAC President and Co-Chair, celebrated the return to in-person dialogue after 2023’s virtual conference, calling AMASA “the heartbeat of Africa’s scientific mission.” He spotlighted the summit’s subthemes—One Health, Natural Disaster Resilience, and Skills Mobilization—urging participants to transform discussions into policies and partnerships. “This is our moment to shape a scientifically empowered Africa,” he stated, rallying attendees to engage actively in debates and forge actionable alliances.

A Platform for Progress
The ceremony underscored the urgency of leveraging Africa’s vast resources through science-driven frameworks, with a focus on inclusivity and cross-border cooperation. Over 100 delegates from academies, governments, and international bodies attended, signaling a renewed commitment to translating research into real-world impact.

As the three-day summit unfolds, expectations are high for breakthroughs in bridging gaps between science, policy, and community needs. Stay tuned for updates on groundbreaking sessions and collaborations emerging from this pivotal gathering.