Innovation Agencies in Africa Network

About Us

About IAA Network

We are a pan-African network bringing together national and regional innovation agencies to promote collaboration, capacity building, knowledge exchange, and policy harmonization across the continent. Our mission extends beyond simple cooperation to creating a unified innovation ecosystem that drives sustainable development and economic transformation throughout Africa.

The IAA Network is proudly funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the National Research Foundation of South Africa (NRF), enabling us to foster innovation collaboration and capacity building across African innovation agencies.

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African Countries Engaged

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Innovation Agencies
Our Mission

Enhance the capacity and capabilities of national and regional innovation agencies through collaborative efforts.

Our Vision

A strengthened continental level innovation ecosystem that enables inclusive and sustainable development as well as industrial competitiveness for the continent.

Our Core Values

Pan-African Unity

Fostering collaboration and solidarity across all African nations through shared innovation goals.

Excellence

Striving for the highest standards in innovation, research, and sustainable development practices.

Inclusivity

Ensuring all voices are heard and represented, promoting gender equality and youth empowerment.

Integrity

Maintaining transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in all our collaborative efforts.

Our Thematic Areas

We focus on three key innovation areas that are critical for Africa's sustainable development and economic transformation, each addressing unique challenges and opportunities across the continent.

Green Innovation
Driving sustainable solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation across Africa.

We focus on renewable energy technologies, sustainable agriculture practices, circular economy models, water conservation systems, and environmental monitoring solutions. Our green innovation initiatives support Africa's transition to sustainable development while addressing unique environmental challenges through locally-adapted technologies and community-driven solutions.

Digital Innovation
Leveraging technology to transform African economies and improve quality of life.

Our digital transformation agenda encompasses fintech solutions, e-governance platforms, digital health systems, educational technology, and ICT infrastructure development. We work to bridge the digital divide by promoting digital literacy, supporting tech entrepreneurship, and facilitating technology transfer between African countries.

Inclusive Innovation
Ensuring innovation benefits all segments of society, especially marginalized communities

We champion innovation that addresses gender equality, youth empowerment, rural development, and accessibility for persons with disabilities. Our programs support social entrepreneurship, community-based innovation, and solutions that create economic opportunities for underserved populations while promoting social cohesion and cultural preservation.