Editor's note

Today is Africa Day, commemorating the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963. The umbrella body, which was later renamed the African Union, was set up as part of the continent’s quest for unity, independence and liberation from colonial powers. To mark the day we are publishing articles on some of the big issues facing African countries written by academics steeped in knowledge about the continent.

Part of the continent’s drive to greater integration was meant to have been driven by the Pan African Parliament which was set up in 2004. But, as Babatunde Fagbayibo writes, the parliament is dysfunctional and mired in accusations of corruption. On a positive note, Muchazondida Mkono explains why social media offers a powerful platform for telling stories with a positive turn, opening the door to counteracting decades of Afro-pessimism. And Alan Christoffels outlines a number of programmes and initiatives that are building the continent’s science muscle.

Caroline Southey

Editor

Science in Africa: homegrown solutions and talent must come first

Alan Christoffels, University of the Western Cape

There are several projects and initiatives that offer hope amid all the bad news about African science.

Changing the African narrative through social media platforms

Muchazondida Mkono, The University of Queensland

Social media presents a powerful platform for creating multiple stories about Africa.

Lessons from religious groups for a 'Ghana beyond aid'

James Kwateng-Yeboah, Queen's University, Ontario

Ghanaians respond positively to financial appeals from churches compared to how they respond to paying taxes. Here's how, and why, Ghana's government should learn from religious groups.

Why the Pan-African Parliament must clean up its act if it wants to survive

Babatunde Fagbayibo, University of South Africa

Reports of profligacy by the leaders of the Pan African Parliament could further diminish its legitimacy, which is already being questioned .

Business + Economy

  • Why we perceive ourselves as richer than we think we are

    Alberto Cardaci, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore - Catholic University of Milan

    Under some circumstances, people may feel wealthier than they actually are and this makes them psychologically more prone to increase their spending, as well as their borrowing.

Health + Medicine

Politics + Society