Abstract:
Attempts to improve the policy environment have led to a growing pressure on governments in Africa
to embark on policymaking that is more evidence based and considers a wide spectrum of scientific
and indigenous knowledge. Local – or ‘homegrown’ – research networks on the continent can help
strengthen the role of scientific knowledge in policymaking by increasing the capacity of researchers
and by enhancing the visibility and communication of the research produced. While a large number of
regional and sub-regional research networks have sprung up in Africa, the mere existence of networks
does not guarantee their success. In reality, the impact of research networks on the science–policy
interface depends on how well the networks operate in practice. We present a framework for evaluating
the effectiveness of research networks in a way that is comparable across networks. The evaluation
framework was used to evaluate two sub-regional research networks: the NEPAD Southern African
Networks of Water Centres of Excellence (SANWACTE) and the NEPAD Southern African Network for
Biosciences (SANBio). The evaluation revealed some shared constraints limiting the effectiveness of
both networks, including uneven regional representation, asymmetry between network members, and
difficulties in securing sufficient, diverse and sustainable resources. Further research into network design
and funding models is suggested in order to enhance the role of these networks in providing locally
appropriate knowledge for policymaking on the continent.
SIGNIFICANCE :
• While a large number of research networks have sprung up in Africa, the mere existence of networks does
not guarantee success.
• Uneven regional representation, power asymmetries, and limited funding constrain the effectiveness of
research networks.
