Strengthening Mobilization and Management of Academy Resources – Insights from the ASBS Virtual Meeting

On 26 March 2026, the Network of African Science Academies (NASAC) hosted the first edition of its Academy Synergy Building Sessions (ASBS) virtual meeting. Held via Zoom, the session focused on resource mobilization and management for African science academies. The inaugural meeting brought together secretariat staff and academy leaders to strengthen collaboration and enhance institutional capacity in resource management. A total of 37 participants registered for the meeting, of which 28 attended.

Key Insights from the Session

Allen Mukwana (MSc, MBA, SRMP) of the Science for Africa Foundation emphasized the critical role of academies as essential national scientific infrastructure. A senior strategist in research, organizational development, and international development, she brings over 20 years of experience in strengthening scientific and innovation ecosystems across Africa. In her role as Head of Programmes for Strengthening Science Ecosystems, she leads initiatives aimed at enhancing research governance, building institutional capacity, and developing leadership, while fostering collaboration among governments, universities, and global partners.

She further underscored the importance of academies clearly distinguishing themselves from think tanks and universities by articulating their value across three key domains:

1. Science for Science – promoting the legitimacy of knowledge and advancing national scientific capacity.
2. Science for Policy – providing evidence-based advice to support informed government decision-making.
3. Science for Society – engaging the public and raising awareness of scientific issues.

Mukwana’s presentation underscored that funders prioritize academies for their credibility, convening power, regional coordination, and role in science diplomacy, rather than for prestige or fellowship. She encouraged academies to transition from project-based activities to platform-based models to attract sustainable funding.

Governance and Sustainability

Sustainability requires more than securing grants; strong governance structures, clear mandates, and transparent processes are essential. Participants discussed the importance of maintaining institutional independence while seeking government support, balancing statutory recognition with intellectual freedom, and building relationships that enhance credibility.

Participants discussed challenges in gaining government recognition and addressing resource constraints. They emphasized strategies such as forming partnerships with universities and engaging the private sector to strengthen institutional credibility.

NASAC Executive Director, Dr. Jackie Kado, highlighted the importance of academies presenting themselves as strategic partners to government, noting that opportunities often arise when organizations are well-prepared.

Participants also explored the benefits of NASAC as a continental platform that elevates national academies, reduces competition, and amplifies collective influence across Africa. The discussion included practical considerations for academies to improve governance, fundraising, and engagement with government.

Next Steps

To translate insights into actionable outcomes, the meeting agreed on the following steps for NASAC member academies:

• Develop concise value statements/position papers for governments, funders, and society.
• Conduct governance self-assessments and strengthen policies and systems, including membership criteria and financial controls.
• Explore government compact funding opportunities while maintaining independence.
• Plan joint activities with NASAC to enhance visibility and collaboration.
• Prepare fundraising pitches aligned with national value propositions and identify potential funders.
• Review NGO status and consider transitioning to statutory/legal status to strengthen credibility.

The session concluded with participants agreeing that clearly defined value statements and strengthened governance foundations are critical steps toward ensuring the sustainability and impact of African science academies.