African Journal of
Bacteriology Research

  • Abbreviation: J. Bacteriol. Res.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 2006-9871
  • DOI: 10.5897/JBR
  • Start Year: 2009
  • Published Articles: 120

Full Length Research Paper

Challenges and opportunities in advancing microbiology research in Africa: A review

Eric Amenyogbe
  • Eric Amenyogbe
  • Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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Christian Larbi Ayisi
  • Christian Larbi Ayisi
  • Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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Eric Kwabena Droepenu
  • Eric Kwabena Droepenu
  • Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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Grace Afumwaa Boamah
  • Grace Afumwaa Boamah
  • Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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Rahmat Quaigrane Duker
  • Rahmat Quaigrane Duker
  • Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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Noel Ayivor
  • Noel Ayivor
  • Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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Isaac Kwame Akortia
  • Isaac Kwame Akortia
  • Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Eastern Region, Ghana.
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  •  Received: 16 June 2023
  •  Accepted: 18 July 2023
  •  Published: 31 October 2023

Abstract

The need for efficient microbiology technologies in Africa has been a significant challenge to advancing microbiology research and study. This review examines the impact of this challenge and identifies the opportunities that exist to address them. These include the slow pace of research and development, the limited ability to identify and manage infectious diseases, and the challenge of monitoring and controlling food and water quality. The impact of the slow pace of research and development on microbiology is particularly concerning, as it limits the ability of African researchers to carry out complex microbiology experiments. This, in turn, limits the amount of knowledge that can be generated about various aspects of life, including human health, agriculture, and environmental science. Despite these challenges, this article identifies opportunities for addressing Africa's lack of efficient microbiology technologies. One opportunity is the development of specialised research facilities that can support microbiology research in the continent. Another opportunity is training researchers and technicians to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out microbiology research. The need for efficient microbiology technologies in Africa has significantly impacted microbiology research and study on the continent. By investing in specialised research facilities, providing training for researchers and technicians, and increasing access to funding for research and development, it is possible to improve the pace of microbiology research and generate new knowledge about various aspects of life in Africa.

 

Key words: Technologies, Laboratory techniques, Diagnostic methods, Capacity building, Education.