Globally, women account for just 30 per cent of science professionals and this underrepresentation persists across Africa. In this final podcast episode of 2024, Africa Science Focus speaks to two African women who have overcome entrenched gender barriers to forge successful careers in science and technology and we learn about their contributions to advancing science in Sub-Saharan Africa. Martha Alade tells reporter Jayne Augoye how, as an inquisitive schoolgirl, she inspired classmates by gathering bones to bring science lessons to life. Now executive director of Women in Technology in Nigeria, we hear how Alade collaborates with parents and communities to foster a culture that supports girls in STEM. Gwen Jones, co-founder of the Nzatu Food Group in Zambia, talks about her work to tackle food insecurity and climate change by promoting the cultivation of drought-resistant indigenous grains such as fonio and millet. This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk. Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at
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