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EDITORIALS: Jimmy Volmink and Lola Dare Addressing inequalities in research capacity in Africa BMJ 2005; 331: 705-706 [Full text]

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Lack of research impetus in Africa: a way forward

Dr. Rajesh Chauhan   (16 October 2005)

Lack of research impetus in Africa: a way forward 16 October 2005
Dr. Rajesh Chauhan, Consultant, Family Medicine & Communicable Diseases 309/9 A.V. Colony, Sikandra, Agra – 282007. India Send response to journal: Re: Lack of research impetus in Africa: a way forward	Dear Editor, Lack of encouragement, unethical research practices, a colonial past that left some degree of suspicion and mistrust, and worst of all the instability, etc, have all contributed to the lack of research in Africa. The following may help in resolving the issue: · Research topic should be properly thought over, duly vetted and in tune with the most pressing problems. Topics providing immediate results and solutions for the agonies and problems faced by the common man should be selected and prioritized. Until and unless the indigenous population is convinced (and overtly so at that) of the possible benefits which may accrue to them, probably it may be difficult getting anticipated support for any research from them. · Not every topic may be of immediate relevance. Malnutrition (including obesity) and its effects, HIV and AIDS, TB, malaria, STIs’, stress and other psychiatric disorders, and alcoholism related issues are more prevalent and due indulgence may be provided first. · Africa has never been bereft of talent. Talent must be explored, encouraged and provided due support and further training if needed. Efforts to incorporate them as co-workers can be of immense value, which should be encouraged and cultivated. If outsiders are to be incorporated for research, those who have built up a rapport and faith amongst the populace may be preferred. Emphasis may be placed on long term partnerships. The prevalence of mutual suspicion within other African Nationals and in-between other tribes must not be ignored. · Fully functional and effective ethical committee may be established and every research topic may first be thoroughly vetted by this committee. · There should be transparent methods and modalities established to seek timely guidance and frank opinion/course corrections from a qualified team established to help budding scientists when faced with any problem or dilemma. Those who seek out this help should not feel afraid of plagiarism and of their work being outdone by others. · Many researches are left half-cooked due to inconclusive results, exhaustion, or poor funds, etc. These should be supported and guided towards their logical conclusions. · Library facilities must be created through philanthropic contributions. Publishers may like to help and provide free copies of their publications to the Sub-Saharan African countries on a regular basis. Internet facilities may help the research impetus further still. Having had the privilege of working in Southern African region, these were the issues I felt that need urgent redress for improving research in Africa. Similar problems may also be prevalent in many other parts of the world, requiring similar help. With regards. Competing interests: None declared