Status of African Women in Research Report

The Status of African Women in Research Report draws on data from the 2023 Mawazo Fellowship applications and the accompanying Academic Needs Survey. It examines the current state of African women researchers, particularly those pursuing doctoral studies and highlights the challenges they face along the way. It also advocates for strategic interventions to promote gender equality and empower women in research across the continent. 

The findings reveal that while Life and Health Sciences are the most popular research areas, there are regional variations, with Eastern and Southern Africa having a more balanced disciplinary spread and Central and Western Africa skewing towards STEM fields. A significant gap exists in funding accessibility for African women PhD candidates, with 60% of the applicants relying on personal savings, 15% receiving funding from their own university, 10% from other academic institutions within Africa and 16% from other sources such as the government, philanthropic and professional organisations. An overwhelming 75% of the applicants were primary caregivers, with 98% of those with primary caregiving responsibilities reporting that the lack of funding had an impact on their research work. 

Although intra-continental mobility is increasing, most women pursue their PhDs in their home countries due to family responsibilities and limited funding opportunities, which hinder international mobility. However, there is a noticeable movement of scholars to South Africa, with 66% of respondents based in South Africa originating from elsewhere on the continent. 94% of applicants reported that the lack of mentorship and career guidance has an impact. Lack of training in research and academic skills (e.g., grant writing, leadership, and financial management) also significantly impacts women's research work with 94% of applicants reporting an impact. Unsupportive supervisors and sexism/misogyny also pose challenges, though to a lesser extent, with 48% of applicants responding that unsupportive supervisors have an impact and 57% responding that sexism has an impact. African women PhD candidates also face unique challenges related to gendered responsibilities, ageism, and disabilities, often shouldering a disproportionate burden of care work, facing discrimination based on age, and lacking adequate support for disabilities. 82% of applicants reported that their research work was being impacted by lack of time due to family commitments. 

Recommendations

To address these issues, the report recommends increasing targeted funding initiatives to address the financial barriers faced by African women PhD candidates, particularly caregivers. It also suggests developing tailored support programmes to facilitate both intra- and inter-continental mobility for women researchers. Investing in mentorship, career guidance, and training programmes is crucial to equip women with the necessary skills and resources. Additionally, policies and initiatives should be developed to address gendered responsibilities, ageism, and disabilities within academic institutions. The report underscores the need for a more inclusive and supportive research environment for African women. By addressing the systemic challenges they face, we can unlock their potential and contribute to the advancement of research and development on the continent.

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