The Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) has called for stronger investment in research and innovation across Africa. The appeal came during the closing ceremony of the 11th UNESCO Africa Engineering Week and the 9th Africa Engineering Conference held at Speke Resort Munyonyo from September 8 to 18, 2025.
Delivering his closing remarks, UIPE president Eng. Bosco Lepi said Africa must increase its focus on research if it is to compete globally.
“Engineers in Africa must do more in research and innovation if the continent is to cope with the demands of the world market and achieve a breakthrough,” Eng. Lepi told participants.
He explained that engineering is central to solving Africa’s challenges. Without innovation, he said, the continent risks falling further behind in industrial growth, infrastructure development, and technology adoption.
The conference was held under the theme “Leveraging Engineering Innovations and Technology to Accelerate Africa’s Socio–Economic Transformation.” According to UIPE, this theme was chosen to highlight the urgency of using engineering to drive development.
The event was organized in partnership with UNESCO, the Federation of African Engineering Organisations (FAEO), and the World Federation of Engineering Organisations (WFEO). It attracted hundreds of professionals, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond.
Government Emphasizes Engineering-Led Growth
Hon. Eng. Hillary Onek, Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, officially closed the event. He praised UIPE and its partners for successfully hosting the landmark conference in Uganda. He also thanked delegates from the many countries represented.
“Engineers share ideas and create world-changing innovations. Africa must place engineering at the forefront of development to achieve rapid transformation,” he said.
Hon. Onek reminded participants that engineering has historically been the driver of industrial revolutions across the world. He said Africa’s future growth lies in empowering its engineers with resources, skills, and opportunities.
The minister urged young people to embrace STEM education, noting that the continent needs a fresh generation of innovators ready to solve problems unique to Africa.
Showcasing Engineering Excellence
Throughout the week, delegates took part in technical sessions, exhibitions, and workshops. The conference also hosted mentoring activities for young engineers and students, ensuring that future professionals gain exposure to practical applications of science and technology.
Organizers said the conference was designed to celebrate African engineering excellence, shape policies that foster innovation, and build capacity in STEM disciplines. It also served as a networking hub, where engineers shared knowledge on solutions to challenges like climate change, infrastructure deficits, and sustainable energy.
Stakeholders such as the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), Uganda Tourism Board, universities, and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation played active roles in the conference. Their participation highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, academia, and industry.
Uganda Showcases Its Beauty
Although the main program officially closed on September 18, international guests will continue their stay with tours organized across Uganda. Delegates are expected to visit several tourist attractions on September 19 and 20. The Uganda Tourism Board said the tours would help showcase the country’s natural beauty while strengthening ties with visiting engineers.
The 11th UNESCO Africa Engineering Week and 9th Africa Engineering Conference was described by many participants as a success. It offered an opportunity not only to discuss solutions but also to commit to joint actions for Africa’s transformation.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The UNESCO Africa Engineering Week is an annual celebration that raises the profile of engineering across the continent. It emphasizes the profession’s crucial role in sustainable development and inspires the next generation of engineers.
By integrating practical applications into STEM education, the event equips young Africans with the skills they need to lead future innovations. This year’s edition reaffirmed engineering as a cornerstone of Africa’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous and self-reliant continent.
