Open Science and its Relevance in the African Context
In a recent interview on Business Talk, Dr Heide Hackmann, Director of Future Africa, shed light on the significance of open science and its potential to catalyse transformative innovation and collaboration in Africa.







UP Vice-Chancellor Professor Tawana Kupe (at the podium) gives the opening address as Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande (left); French President Emmanuel Macron (centre); and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (right) take in his remarks.
Left: Professor Wanda Markotter, Research Chair at Future Africa: People, Health and Place right: Professor Cheikh Mbow, Director, Future Africa Institute


AgriHero Challenges 2026 Launches to Back Africa’s Next Wave of Agricultural Innovation
The AgriHero Challenges 2026 has officially launched to support agricultural innovators and entrepreneurs across Africa. The initiative provides mentorship, business development support, networking opportunities, and access to international partnerships for startups developing solutions in climate-smart agriculture, AI-driven farming, food science, sustainable packaging, and circular economy models.