Looking back at Seedbeds of Transformation

In May a three day conference brought together some 300 innovators from research, government, NGOs and media to find ways for science to bring practical solutions to Africa’s sustainability challenges. Early‑career researchers, artists, experienced academics and community workers debated, networked and proposed new ideas and solutions to help ensure the continent’s future for generations.

“The Seedbeds of Transformation: The Role of Science with Society and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa” was hosted by Future Earth, the South African Government Department of Science and Technology, the National Research Foundation of South Africa, and START.

Recommendations from the conference and its participants will feed into the United Nations’ high‑level forum, and towards regional decision makers and groups.

Nadia Sitas, Ryan Blanchard and Odirilwe Selomane attended and contributed to this conference (can you spot them below). A critical challenge highlighted by everyone was the need to ensure that biodiversity and ecosystem services are maintained as Africa develops and transforms.