The UK Government has announced a £1.9 million investment in technology and innovation in Ghana and Nigeria through the West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH).
The initiative, known as Sankore, aims to foster economic growth by strengthening technological advancements and innovation across West Africa in close partnership with the governments of both countries.
Sankore’s call for proposals seeks to support the UK’s collaboration with Ghana and Nigeria, facilitating the commercialisation of innovative solutions, enhancing innovation policy, and improving government digital service delivery.
The initiative plans to establish new partnerships with non-profit organisations, providing funding worth up to £1.9 million.
Lord Collins, the UK Minister for Africa, officially launched the Seoul project at a press conference in Accra.
He emphasised the importance of global collaboration in the tech sector, stating, “This initiative is all about how we can work together to strengthen the global technology sector, creating opportunities for rapidly growing economies with lots of potential to compete on the world stage. The Sankore grant fosters partnerships at its heart, with a strong message that we go far when we go together.”
Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, highlighted the project’s significance, saying, “The Sankore project is a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria to enhance its innovation landscape by strengthening industry-science linkages and developing an enabling policy environment. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to developing practical solutions that lead to sustainable and inclusive growth.”
The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, also commented on the initiative: “Sankore exemplifies the UK’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria. The project will strengthen partnerships between businesses and innovators as well as drive the development of innovative solutions that address critical gaps in priority economic sectors.”
This investment is part of the Africa Technology and Innovation Partnerships (UK-ATIP) Programme and introduces the West Africa Research and Innovation Hub’s accountable grant mechanism to support technology and innovation system strengthening in Ghana and Nigeria.
The project complements other UK-supported efforts aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth in Nigeria and Ghana. These efforts include initiatives such as FSD Africa, Manufacturing Africa, MOBILIST, and British international investments, all working to boost the region’s private sector growth and innovation ecosystems.
