Women scientists have a vital part to play in scientific leadership and in contributing to Africa's development and transformation.

Gender disparities persist in the scientific workforce, largely leaving women scientists in junior positions with little responsibility and power to make decisions, as well as limited leadership opportunities.

To track and monitor women's representation, the African Development Bank's gender equality index captures progress on the appointment of women to posts of responsibility.

The African Union Kwame Nkrumah Awards for Scientific Excellence Programme honours two outstanding African women scientists from each of Africa's five geographical regions.

This programme promotes scientific development, encourages perseverance in research or academic careers, nurtures ambition, and raises the profile of science and technology innovation so that it contributes to Africa's development.