The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has urged African countries to harness science, technology and innovation to drive economic growth and sustainable development.

Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA, in a statement, made the call at the Eighth African Science, Technology and Innovation Forum in Addis Ababa.

Mr Gatete said that rapid technological change and global economic shifts required urgent, coordinated action by African countries.

He noted that slower global growth, rising debt vulnerabilities and climate shocks were reshaping development prospects across the continent.

According to him, advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology and digital systems are redefining productivity and competitiveness globally.

Mr Gatete said Africa risked missing out on emerging opportunities if it failed to act decisively.

“It means that the margin for delay has disappeared and the cost of inaction is rising,” he said.

He said that internet penetration in Africa stood at about 36 per cent in 2025, highlighting persistent digital divides.

The ECA boss also said that the continent accounted for only 0.6 per cent of global patent applications, despite its large population.

He described the figures as indicators of untapped potential and gaps that required urgent attention.

Mr Gatete stressed that science, technology and innovation must be aligned with Africa’s economic transformation agenda.

He said innovation should translate into value addition, job creation and improved productivity across sectors.

He also called for increased investment in digital public infrastructure, including digital identity systems and data platforms.

Mr Gatete emphasised the need to build skills in science, engineering and emerging technologies, especially among youths and women.

He further emphasised the importance of regional integration in scaling innovation across African markets.

According to him, initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area provide opportunities to expand digital solutions and value chains.

He said reliable and sustainable energy remained critical to supporting Africa’s digital transformation.

He added that without an adequate energy supply, digital infrastructure and emerging technologies would face significant constraints.

The ECA executive secretary called for stronger coordination across sectors, countries and institutions to maximise impact.

He said Africa must position itself not just as a consumer of technology, but as a contributor to global innovation.

Mr Gatete reaffirmed ECA’s commitment to supporting member states through policy research, technical assistance and partnerships.

(NAN)