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Olatunji et al. | Journal of Clinical and Translational Research 2023; 9(5): 357-368 361
conduct high-quality research and provide the necessary resources
for researchers and health-care professionals (Figure 1).
Investing in research facilities and laboratories is paramount in
advancing clinical and translational research capabilities in Africa.
Beyond enabling cutting-edge research, these state-of-the-art
facilities are pivotal in attracting and retaining skilled researchers
and scientists within the region. By providing researchers with
an environment replete with advanced technologies and resources
essential for their work, these facilities retain local talent, mitigate
the adverse effects of brain drain, and cultivate a vibrant research
community that augments scientific progress in Africa. Optimizing
the impact of research facilities necessitates emphasizing capacity
building and training initiatives [38]. The effective utilization of
these resources is ensured by affording researchers, technicians,
and support staff access to specialized training in operating
advanced laboratory equipment and employing state-of-the-art Figure 1. Research infrastructure strengthening process.
research techniques. These training programs should encompass
technical skills and underscore the significance of research ethics Moreover, networking extends beyond Africa’s borders, enabling
in upholding rigorous scientific integrity and responsible research fruitful collaborations with international partners, thus positioning
conduct. African research globally and enriching the broader scientific
Promoting collaboration and networking among research discourse. Collaborative partnerships with established research
institutions within Africa and with international partners institutions from other regions facilitate knowledge exchange,
constitutes a pivotal strategy in enhancing research capabilities access to funding opportunities, and the undertaking of joint
across the continent. One prominent initiative facilitating research endeavors [42]. Such collaborations foster a convergence
such collaborations is the African Research and Education of global expertise and best practices, elevating the quality and
Network (AfREN), an ambitious project aiming to accelerate scope of African research.
the development of African National Research and Education Nonetheless, several challenges may impede the successful
Networks while serving as a catalyst for global research and implementation of research facility investments. Foremost among
education cooperation [39]. Spearheaded by the Association of these challenges are funding constraints, as the establishment
African Universities and generously funded by the European of state-of-the-art laboratories necessitates substantial financial
Union, the AfREN project adopts a visionary approach by aligning resources, which may pose difficulties, particularly in resource-
its objectives with the United Nations sustainable development limited settings [43]. Policymakers and stakeholders must
goals, thus ensuring a holistic and impactful research agenda that prioritize research funding and explore innovative funding
addresses pressing societal needs. In tandem with AfREN, other mechanisms to ensure sustainable support for developing research
research networks have emerged in Africa, further enriching the infrastructure. Moreover, vigilant attention must be accorded to
research landscape and contributing to the continent’s scientific infrastructure maintenance once research facilities are established.
progress. One noteworthy example is the Tertiary Education and Timely maintenance and upgrading equipment and infrastructure
Research Network of South Africa (TENET), which has been are indispensable in avoiding suboptimal research outputs that
at the forefront of providing exceptional research and education could hinder scientific progress. Robust maintenance plans and
networking services for over two decades [40]. Through its the allocation of resources for ongoing support are, therefore,
collaborative inter-networking approach, TENET has facilitated essential considerations.
seamless communication and data sharing among universities, Furthermore, the assurance of a proficient workforce competent
science councils, and related research institutions, fostering a in operating and leveraging advanced laboratory equipment
climate of cooperation and knowledge exchange that enhances assumes critical importance. Brain drain and limited research
research capabilities and educational opportunities. In addition, capacity in Africa could precipitate a shortage of qualified
the African Research Universities Alliance exemplifies the power professionals, necessitating focused efforts on education, and
of collaboration in forging a common vision among universities training initiatives. Capacity-building programs should encompass
from diverse countries and historical backgrounds [41]. academic training that equips students and researchers with the
These research networks epitomize the continent’s commitment necessary skills and knowledge to utilize research facilities and
to promoting research collaboration and fostering an environment conduct high-quality research effectively. In addition, navigating
that nurtures academic excellence. By facilitating networking complex regulatory and administrative processes could present
and inter-institutional partnerships, these initiatives create challenges in establishing research facilities and obtaining
opportunities for researchers and students to engage in joint requisite approvals. Streamlining these processes and fostering a
research projects, participate in cross-disciplinary endeavors, conducive regulatory environment are vital to expedite research
and gain exposure to diverse perspectives and methodologies. progress and create a research-friendly atmosphere.
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18053/jctres.09.202305.23-00079