Science Communication in Action: DELTAS Africa Workshop 2026 in Cape Town

From insights to impact, science communication continues to play a critical role in ensuring that research not only generates knowledge but also meaningfully informs communities, policy, and practice across Africa.

The Science Communication Workshop was held from 📅 May 18–20, 2026 | 📍 Cape Town, South Africa, and was organized by the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA). It brought together communication leads from different DELTAS Africa consortia to strengthen science communication strategies, exchange experiences, and enhance the visibility and impact of African-led research.

The workshop featured interactive presentations, discussions, poster sessions, and collaborative activities focused on improving how science is communicated and translated into real-world impact. A key message that consistently emerged was that science communication should extend beyond end-stage dissemination and be embedded throughout the entire research process.

Discussions emphasized that science communication is most effective when integrated across all stages of research rather than being treated as a final step. Participants highlighted the importance of meaningful audience engagement, the need to measure and demonstrate impact, and the role of communication in shaping communities, informing systems, and influencing policy decisions. The importance of embedding communication strategies from the outset of research programs was also strongly reinforced as a way to enhance visibility and long-term impact.

One of the highlights of the workshop was the recognition of the REACCT-CAN HPV self-sampling documentary from Ethiopia, conducted by SFA. The documentary was showcased as a powerful example of impactful science communication and received strong appreciation from participants. It was also announced that the documentary has been nominated for two film awards, marking an important milestone for the REACCT-CAN team.

A dedicated session explored how communication impact can be better documented within DELTAS Africa programs. Building on previous recommendations, participants called for a shift from activity-focused reporting toward clearer articulation of outcomes and impact pathways, with frameworks such as the “activity-to-impact ladder” offering practical guidance for future reporting.

The workshop also created space for poster presentations, where communication leads shared their ongoing work, experiences, and initiatives across consortia, fostering peer learning and exchange of best practices.

The workshop concluded on a strong note of collaboration and renewed purpose, leaving participants with practical tools, shared insights, and strengthened networks to advance science communication across DELTAS Africa consortia. It reaffirmed a collective commitment to ensuring that African research is not only generated but also communicated with clarity, relevance, and lasting societal impact.