Experts push for urgent investment in brain health research as 29 million African children face developmental challenges
PS Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak (R) engages Science for Africa Foundation CEO Dr. Tom Kariuki (L) & Aga Khan University Institute for Human Development (IHD) Director Prof. Amina Abubakar during the University’s IHD Conference advocating for increased investment in research, innovation, and evidence-based policy solutions to improve health and development outcomes among children.
Health and education experts have called for urgent investment in brain health research across Africa, warning that millions of children risk being left behind as the continent grapples with rising developmental delays, poor nutrition and a shortage of locally generated scientific evidence to guide child health interventions.
The call was made during the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Aga Khan University Institute for Human Development held in Nairobi under the theme “Unlocking Human Potential for Optimal Development Across the Lifespan: A Decade of Evidence, Innovation and Policy Impact.”
Experts noted that an estimated 29 million children in Eastern and Southern Africa are currently affected by developmental delays and disabilities, underscoring the need for Africa-led research solutions tailored to local realities.
Africa faces growing child development crisis
Speaking during the conference, Director of the Institute for Human Development, Amina Abubakar said research investment remains critical in helping children overcome barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. Yet for many children, circumstances beyond their control prevent them from reaching their full potential,” she said.
She added that locally generated evidence is essential in identifying effective interventions capable of improving child health and development outcomes.
According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, nearly 18 per cent of Kenyan children under five are stunted, while only 31 per cent receive a minimum acceptable diet, exposing many to poor brain development during the crucial early childhood years.
Governments urged to prioritise science and research
Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation Shaukat Abdulrazak said governments must prioritise scientific research to design policies capable of addressing child development challenges.
“When we invest in research, we invest in better decisions. Evidence helps governments understand what challenges communities are facing and what solutions improve lives,” he said.
New African consortium building future scientists
At the centre of the initiative is the Africa Leadership for Measuring Brain Health in Children and Adolescents consortium, launched in 2023 to strengthen neuroscience research capacity across Kenya, Malawi, Zambia and South Africa.
The programme is currently training over 50 early-career African researchers focusing on child brain development and mental health, with Kenyan research already contributing to new adolescent mental health literacy programmes aimed at reducing stigma and improving supportive school environments.
Experts said closing Africa’s child development gap will require stronger partnerships, increased funding and evidence-based policies to secure the future of millions of children across the continent.
