Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Monica Musenero Masanza, has called the Fourth Industrial Revolution Africa’s “first true industrial revolution,” and challenged the continent to take the lead in technological innovation, rather than follow. Her remarks came during the Fifth Biennial Conference of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), held at Makerere University in Kampala on October 29, 2025.
Musenero’s statement highlighted the historical challenges Africa has faced in its technological development, pointing out that earlier industrial revolutions bypassed the continent. According to the minister, Africa was on the brink of significant technological progress during the first industrial revolution, with innovations in iron-working and traditional medicine. However, these advancements were interrupted by the slave trade, which displaced much of the workforce and stunted the region’s progress.
She further explained that colonialism deepened these disruptions, both halting local innovation and stigmatizing African scientific contributions, particularly during the rapid technological advancements of the 19th century, which saw the development of electric lighting and automobiles.
The New Opportunity
For Musenero, the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents a unique opportunity for Africa. Unlike past revolutions, which the continent was unable to fully participate in, Musenero believes the current moment offers a chance for Africa to not only catch up but to lead the global stage in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and nanotechnology.
“This is Africa’s first industrial revolution,” Musenero said. “We have the institutions, we have the population, and we have the infrastructure. This is a very unique moment for us as a continent.”
She encouraged African scientists and innovators to view the continent’s challenges – including its historical setbacks – as “raw materials” that can fuel innovation, rather than seeing them as obstacles. Musenero stressed that African scientists should not dwell on past difficulties but rather use them as a foundation for future breakthroughs.
Call for Investment and Resources
However, not all delegates at the conference shared Musenero’s optimism without caution. ARUA Secretary-General John Gyapong noted that while Africa has the potential, it is still constrained by critical resource gaps, particularly in technology infrastructure. He emphasized the need for greater investment in data infrastructure, particularly data centres, which remain scarce across much of the continent.
“We have ambitious goals for research, but we need the right tools. Do we have the necessary data centres? The answer is no. Our governments must step up and invest in these essential resources,” Gyapong said.
Global Contribution Still Low
Makerere University Vice-Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe echoed Gyapong’s concerns, noting that Africa’s share of global scientific output remains disproportionately small. “Africa manufactures only 3 percent of the world’s medicines. This is in direct proportion to our contribution to global knowledge creation,” Nawangwe said.
Despite these challenges, Musenero’s call to action is a rallying cry for Africa’s future in technology. She emphasized the importance of pushing forward with innovation, leveraging the continent’s young and growing population, and building on the emerging infrastructure that will help drive Africa’s scientific and technological transformation.
Looking Ahead
As Africa enters the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the continent stands at a crossroads, with both opportunities and hurdles ahead. While progress is being made, the call for greater investment in technology and research infrastructure will be key to ensuring that Africa does not just participate in this revolution, but leads it.
