Modes of Innovation and Enterprise Development by Nairobi’s Mobile Tech Startups
Authored by: Victor Nzomo, Jacquiline Mwangi, Louisa Matu-Mureithi, Caroline Wanjiru Muchiri, and Isaac Rutenberg
Abstract: This paper sets out findings from research into innovation dynamics...
Exploring gender through African oral traditions
By Vanessa Turyatunga
Language shapes and reveals aspects of different cultures and identities. Through my Masters’ work on Yoruba religion, it has become evident to...
Knowledge and Innovation in Africa: Scenarios for the Future
This 2013 book is the product of three years of literature reviews, expert interviews and scenario-building exercises by the Open AIR network. The authors trace the contours of knowledge and innovation in Africa from the founding civilisations to today’s current realities, and then set out the drivers of change that can be expected to shape innovation systems on the continent between now and the year 2035.
Innovation and Scaling by Tech Hubs and Their Hosted Startups: Three...
Authored by: Lucienne Abrahams
Abstract: This Working Paper sets out a view of the nature of three South African tech hubs, their modes of knowledge...
Prof. Osei-Tutu speaks at the University of Ottawa
Too often, scholarly work and debates relating to Intellectual Property (IP) have focused on the protection and profits of the IP holder, as opposed to promoting open-access and the broader interests of the community. In her talk at the University of Ottawa on February 9th, Professor Janewa Osei-Tutu suggested we readjust the lens through which IP innovation is examined, using human development as the standard.
Opportunities from Côte d’Ivoire on Plastic Waste and the Blue Economy
By Ahou Rachel Koumi
In 2019, my niece and I enjoyed a two-day outing to the famous beaches of Assinie, in Côte d'Ivoire. I have fond...
The Blue Economy and The Need for Open IP
By Eashan Karnik, cross-posted from Smart Prosperity Institute
The need to adopt clean energy technologies is a pressing issue not
just in Canada, but internationally...
Artificial Intelligence in Africa: An Overview of ongoing Open AIR Activities
By Nagham El Houssamy and Nadine Weheba
This is part one in a three part series. For part two, click here. Part three can be...
The Maker Movement in Gauteng Province, South Africa
This paper sets out findings from research into the dynamics of the emerging “maker” movement in South Africa’s Gauteng Province. The authors position the maker movement as a potentially strong contributor to, and manifestation of, informal-sector innovation on the African continent.
Strengthening innovation support systems at Ghana’s Suame Magazine
In my previous blog on skills development and innovation at Ghana’s Suame Magazine, I showed how the high level of collaboration and sharing of knowledge and skills within the cluster is contributing to innovation. Further, I provided some preliminary findings on the inability of these artisans’ to keep pace with the changing technology landscape. I also found that few artisans expressed interest in joining or maintaining a membership with local trade associations due to these associations’ inability to implement their key mandate of skills development and facilitation of business for members and firms.