The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) and the African Light Source Foundation (AfLS) have forged a pivotal partnership to accelerate scientific advancement across the African continent. This important scientific research agreement, formalized by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AAS President, Professor Lise Korsten, and AfLS Chair, Professor Simon Connell, signifies a crucial stride towards the realization of the African Light Source – a cutting-edge research facility poised to revolutionize scientific inquiry across the continent.

The African Light Source, envisioned as a state-of-the-art "super microscope," will empower scientists to delve into the intricate structures of matter at the atomic level. This capability will unlock unprecedented insights across diverse scientific domains, from unravelling the complexities of disease to pioneering the development of novel technological materials. Moreover, the facility will serve as a cornerstone for Africa's endeavours to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing critical challenges such as climate change, public health, and industrial development.

The MoU outlines a collaborative framework for the two organizations to leverage their respective expertise, resources, and networks. Key areas of focus will include fostering a new generation of African scientists through rigorous training programs and mentorship initiatives, enhancing research facilities and providing access to cutting-edge technologies across the continent, and strengthening the African scientific community through collaborative research endeavours, knowledge sharing platforms, and international partnerships.

This partnership aligns seamlessly with the AAS's overarching mission to advance science, technology, and innovation across the African continent. The AAS's 2023-2027 Strategic Plan prioritizes addressing critical challenges such as climate change, public health, and equitable access to technology. The collaboration with AfLS constitutes a significant step towards achieving these ambitious goals. Furthermore, the African Light Source project complements existing AAS programs such as the African Research Initiative for Science and Engineering (ARISE) and the African Postdoctoral Training Initiative (APTI), which are dedicated to nurturing young African scientists and fostering a vibrant scientific ecosystem.

The agreement outlines a series of key milestones: the publication of the AfLS Conceptual Design Report at the AAS General Assembly in December 2024, the establishment of an AfLS office within the AAS headquarters in Nairobi by 2025 and cultivating a thriving community of over 1,000 African researchers actively engaged in light source technology. The ultimate objective is to achieve full operational status for the African Light Source by 2035.

This partnership will create numerous opportunities for training, joint research endeavours, and collaborative initiatives with other leading scientific institutions. The AfLS office at the AAS headquarters will serve as a vital hub for these activities, facilitating collaboration among researchers across Africa and providing seamless access to global resources.