SciDev.Net

This paper maps African countries' knowledge base through patent applications and publications. It shows South Africa as academically, and technically, the strongest country of the continent. The number of publications is growing in other African countries, but patenting remains limited all-round.

The paper ends on a positive note, arguing that African countries already possess the basis for knowledge-driven development.

In this report, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that vigilance is needed to prevent drug-resistant malaria arising from the widescale introduction of artemisin combination therapies (ACTs) for malaria. More than 50 countries have now adopted ACTs, and they must closely monitor the effectiveness of these drugs and check for the emergence of resistance, the report concludes. Patients should receive only WHO-approved high-quality medicines to minimise the risk of resistance emerging, and should be encouraged to complete their treatment courses. The report outlines the WHO's commitment to helping establish stardardised laboratory procedures, and strengthening resistance monitoring networks.