Unleashing potential: assessing Africa’s readiness for the data science revolution to impact health

Abstract

Data Science can revolutionize biomedical sciences, and ultimately, health. However, this relies on core elements, including computing infrastructure, data science skills, and well-curated contextually relevant data, which are limited in low- and middle-income countries. Many big data biomedical projects that have emerged over the last decade have been instrumental in development of datasets, computing infrastructure and skills; yet large disparities remain. Here, we review the data science development within Africa over recent years and identify key gaps and challenges that still hinder its implementation for health. We provide recommendations for establishing a sustainable data science ecosystem within Africa.