According to Professor Maano Ramutsindela, University of Cape Town (UCT)’s dean of science and co-editor of Africa and the goals for sustainable development, the book brings together more than 80 researchers from different disciplines on five continents to demonstrate an approach to fairness. . global partnership in the production of knowledge relevant to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa.
Africa and the Sustainable Development Goals (Springer, 2020) will be launched on 16 November 2020 at 15:00 SAST during a live online event, with both co-editors available for a question and answer.
Ramutsindela, who co-edited the book with Dr David Mickler of the University of Western Australia, explains that the book is unique in the range of its research perspectives and because it does not take the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for granted. . instead critically track their development and the conditions under which it is implemented in Africa.
“Africa has seen many external development plans put in place that have hardly improved the conditions of ordinary people. The SDGs are an aspiration blueprint for development, because although they do not want to leave anyone behind, they do not yet herald a strong nation. “- Centered Approach to Development. This book places the SDGs in the context of an unequal, global economy and Africa’s own development paths as set out in the AU (African Union) Agenda 2063,” Ramutsindela explains.
A global framework with local impact
According to Mickler, it is difficult to overstate the importance of the SDGs.
“This book places the SDGs in the context of an unequal world economy and Africa’s own development paths.”
“The SDGs set out a global framework and set targets for sustainable development that involve and influence all states and societies, from international cooperation to national policies to local activities,” he explains. The SDG13 targets, for example, focus on combating climate change and, according to Mickler, require action by both developing and developed states that in turn will influence people at the local level, including communities living on the social, economic and ecological margins. .
The book reflects the scope and extent of the complexity of SDGs in Africa with several chapters analyzing the aspects of mining and its implications for government and human development in different parts of the continent, and chapters on health systems, working conditions, agriculture and media.
“The book recognizes the scope of the SDGs, as well as the diversity of the African continent and its peoples, and resists comprehensive claims and solutions,” says Mickler.
“Instead, through a process of research collaboration below, it highlights how a diverse group of scholars interpret the intersection of certain SDGs and local conditions in particular parts of Africa, while also taking into account national and regional development frameworks and priorities. “
A collaborative research network
In order to complete such a wide range of research inputs, the book leveraged the capability and collaboration of the Worldwide Universities Network Global Africa Group (WUN GAG).
“With 26 chapters and more than 80 co-authors, this international research network has made it possible to complete this project within two years, including workshops in Accra, Cape Town, Nairobi and Perth,” explains Mickler.
Register here to book your place at the book’s online launch, including participating in a Q&A with the co-editors.