Buruli ulcer could spread as agriculture intensifies in Africa, making prevention research vital, says agro-eco-health expert Rousseau Djouaka.

Technological innovation can't be imposed on poor people — they must be engaged to select ideas that suit their lives, writes Lawrence Gudza.

Stunning fundraising success at Stellenbosch University is a model for others in Africa, but leadership is crucial, says Linda Nordling.

Africa's health research capacity is growing but needs a stronger workforce, say Carel IJsselmuiden and colleagues.

Africa must use this week's science forum to adapt its innovation initiatives to fit a changing world, argues Linda Nordling.

There is a pressing need for Africa to bolster its pharmaceuticals industry, and that requires the right policy framework, argues Priya Shetty.

Improving health for the poor depends on nurturing local innovations — and learning how to deliver them, argue Abdallah Daar and Peter Singer.

Africa needs to up its game in malaria research, but by doing what it does best, not by replicating Western research, says Linda Nordling.

South Sudan's prosperity depends on more public universities serving more students — and focussing on S&T, not humanities, says John A. Akec.

The scientific community should create new intergovernmental organisations that promote innovative science in Africa, says Calestous Juma.

Angola has the money, connections and political will to be a force in African science. But will it tackle inequality, asks Linda Nordling.

North-South partnerships dominate university funding in Tanzania, but they are failing to build capacity, says Johnson M. Ishengoma.

Pragmatism must trump profit when African leaders commit to a green development agenda, argues Linda Nordling.

Nuclear power can benefit developing countries but requires long-term planning and an educated workforce, says Michael J. Mangala.

Ambitious plans for a 'desert development corridor' in Egypt could provide a concrete example of the social value of science, says Athar Osama.

Critics looking for more from the first African Innovation Outlook should realise it is a solid base on which to work, says Linda Nordling.

Egypt's 'science city' will not build a science culture without its people empowered by academic experience abroad, argues Austin Dacey.

Policies to stimulate African development require evidence that is difficult to obtain using existing indicators, says policy analyst Watu Wamae.

The African Union's new research and innovation survey is a treasure trove of data — and deserves better reporting, says Linda Nordling.

Science students will choose to study and work in Africa if they have access to high-quality training, says education adviser Sophie Rivière.