Towards African nanotechnology future: trends, impacts and opportunities

Abstract

Nanotechnology, from Nano filters for water purification in Ethiopia and the United Republic of Tanzania to Nano catalysts and Nano sensors in Egypt and South Africa, is broadening the scope of current approaches and creating new avenues for meeting many of the development challenges that Africa faces today. This report looks at current nanotechnology research and development trends and market potential, indirectly assessing the engagement of Africa in the nanotechnology field. The report shows the efforts that a number of African countries and institutions are undertaking to drive nanotechnology development. It addresses the scientific, technological, economic, social and regulatory issues arising from nanotechnology. As a distinct field of both scientific, technological and industrial interest, the report showcases steps that African countries could take to realize the economic, social and environmental benefits of nanotechnology while managing regulatory challenges the technology may impose. Specifically, it assesses the current state of nanotechnology in Africa as well as provide an overview of nanotechnology development globally and explore opportunities to enable innovation using nanotechnology to develop safe, effective products that could make significant impacts in achieving the 2030 Agenda and national aspirations. It also highlights strategies and other arrangements that African countries can use to harness global and regional knowledge in nanotechnology to drive innovation in Africa; and the role of regional blocks in building research infrastructures and industrial capacities in nanotechnology in African countries.