Africa needs a new narrative to 'Africa Rising', argues a new book, 'Innovation Africa: Emerging Hubs of Excellence in Africa'. The argument put forward is that Africa needs a "Pan-African narrative and prospective framework of development that includes innovation systems" which point to an African "practice of self-reliance as opposed to dependency". The point made is that Africa is not only "rising", but that it already has innovation to celebrate and emerging excellence that needs "deliberate policies" to foster it that are inclusive and sustainable. The book by authors Olugbenga Adesida, Geci Karuri-Sebina and João Resende-Santos, focuses on several case studies to showcase the innovation reality on the continent, particularly its power to transform. This quote is powerful: "The technological innovations taking place on the continent today offer the promise of transforming African countries from trading mainly in materials and commodities to trading in knowledge-intensive products." It is also Africa's adoption of the mobile revolution that gives it the potential to become "the next China", according to speakers at the Growth Innovation Leadership Africa event last week. One thing is for certain, the narrative on Africa has certainly shifted in recent years to one of innovation and transformation on the continent, which is incredibly positive. Have a great week! Louise Marsland Africa Editor: Bizcommunity.com
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