Every June 30 is celebrated as the African Science Innovation DayThe African Inventors Day, a date that recognises the talent, creativity and transformative capacity of African inventors. Beyond stereotypes and traditional narratives, Africa is a hotbed of ideas that are revolutionising entire industries, from medicine to artificial intelligence. Here are a few
Heman Bekele: Soap against skin cancer
At the age of 14, the young man Heman Bekelea native of Ethiopia living in the US, developed a special soap with the potential to treat skin cancer. His invention, based on accessible and natural compounds, aims to provide an affordable and effective alternative for communities with limited access to advanced dermatological treatments.
Beyond the product, their story shows how scientific training can cross borders and bring solutions back to the place of origin.
Mashudu Tshifularo: pioneer of hearing reconstruction
From South Africa, Dr. Mashudu Tshifularo marked a milestone in global medicine by performing the first middle ear bone transplant using 3D printing technology. This breakthrough offers hope to thousands of people with hearing loss caused by structural damage to the ear.
The procedure represents not only a medical achievement, but also a demonstration of how innovation can be born from the intersection of science, creativity and social engagement.
William Kamkwamba: wind energy from necessity
In Malawi, William Kamkwambaat the age of 14, built a windmill using recycled parts and local materials. His goal was simple but urgent: to bring electricity to his home and community. He achieved it without formal technical training, guided by books and determination.
Today, their story inspires renewable energy projects in rural communities across Africa.
Smart medical applications: Cardiopad and Ubenwa
From Cameroon, the engineer Arthur Zang developed the Cardiopada tablet that allows electrocardiograms to be taken in rural areas and sent to cardiologists remotely. This has been key to diagnosing heart disease in areas without access to specialised hospitals.
In parallel, from Nigeria, the Ubenwaan app that analyses a baby's cries to detect signs of neonatal asphyxia through artificial intelligence. Such solutions save lives and reduce health inequalities.
Technology for communities, not just markets
What unites these inventions is not only their African provenance, but their practical approach. Rather than focusing solely on economic gain, many African inventors seek to solve problems in the field. real, everyday problemshealth, energy, education, access to water.
From portable water filters to low-cost agricultural sensors, innovation in Africa often has a strong social and human component.
More than a day of commemoration, this date offers an opportunity to broaden our view of a continent whose creativity is making its mark on the world.