In 1985, in response to the 1980 Organization of African Unity (OAU) Lagos Plan of Action for the Economic Development of Africa, (1980–2000), the United Nations University (UNU) assembled a group of distinguished African scientists and technologists to define the role UNU could play in enhancing the ability of African universities and research institutions to contribute to finding solutions to Africa’s developmental problems.
The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) initiative also recognises the critical roles that higher education must play in the development of Africa, particularly the application of science and technology to the management and use of natural resources. African countries have also subscribed to the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Meeting the MDGs and putting together the relevant tools needed to meet the NEPAD agenda pose serious challenges to most African countries.
The NEPAD document also identifies the need to strengthen the weak research and training infrastructure in African universities and research institutions as a necessary first step to harness Africa’s human and natural resources for development through the application of science and technology. A critical element for this to occur is the application of new knowledge in science and technology by African scientists to advance the management of resources, which are being managed in a way that impacts negatively on the livelihood of the African people. The conservation, development and management of Africa’s resources in a sustainable way are critical for generating wealth to alleviate poverty.
As a result, the United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa (UNU-INRA) was established in 1986 to support the building of African capacity. It seeks to contribute to ensuring sustainable development of Africa’s natural resources, maintaining the quality of its natural environment, mitigating the effects of climate change and realising a better quality of life for the continent’s people. UNU-INRA’s main goal is to empower African universities, research institutions and individuals through capacity strengthening.