Science as a Driver for Development: Shaping Input for the UN Financing for Development Summit (FfD4): The Role and Contribution of African Science Leadership

Location: Hotel Alfonso XIII – Salon Cartuja

Address: 2, San Fernando 

Sevilla 41004

Spain

Objectives

1. Highlight the role of science in sustainable development: Showcase how scientific research and innovation contribute to solving development challenges, such as climate change, global health, food security, and digital transformation.

2. Promote science-informed policy-making: Encourage the integration of scientific evidence into development finance policies and strategies, particularly for issues that intersect with health, AI, and agriculture.

3. Foster collaborations and partnerships: Facilitate connections between scientists, policymakers, private sector representatives, and civil society to promote science-driven solutions for development.

4. Mobilize resources for science and innovation: Advocate for increased funding and investment in scientific research, especially in fields that are critical to achieving the SDGs.

Key Themes

Financing large-scale infrastructures as they are key to sustainable capacity building. Integrating urban mobility projects while requiring sustainable strategies to minimize carbon emissions through energy-efficient technologies and green practices.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development: Examining the potential of AI to transform sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and infrastructure while addressing ethical and regulatory considerations.

Science and Technology for Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting scientific solutions to enhance food production, improve agricultural resilience, and reduce environmental impacts.

Innovation in Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability: Demonstrating how scientific research drives progress in climate adaptation, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, and environmental monitoring.

The Future of Science in Financing for Development: Advocating for integrating science within development finance frameworks and discussing strategies to mobilise funds for scientific research.

Expected Outcomes

• Strengthened recognition of the role of science in achieving sustainable development.
• Recommendations for integrating scientific innovation into development financing frameworks.
• Commitments from stakeholders to increase investment in scientific research and innovation.
• Establishment of new partnerships and networks between the science, policy, and finance communities.