Reported needs of information resources, research tools, connectivity and infrastructure among African Pharmacological Scientists to improve future patient care and health

Introduction: The potentials of Africa for growth and economic transformation through science remains challenging because of existing gaps in knowledge and infrastructure. The Africa Pharmacological Science Gateway project and the Medicines Utilization Research in Africa Group seeks to meet the research needs of African pharmacologists. This study aimed at identifying priority needs that might be met by access to information and tools through e-infrastructure. Methods: A web-based cross-sectional study among 472 members of pharmacological societies in Africa to obtain information on their research interests and skills, available resources, needs and knowledge gaps. Descriptive analyses were done. Results: A total of 118 responses from 13 countries were received, mostly from Nigeria (48.3%) and South Africa (21.3%). Respondents had wide ranges of research interests predominantly in drug utilization research.The desired resources included drug utilization research training and tools, pharmacokinetics and pharmacometrics modelling training and tools, drug-drug interaction and medicine prices resources, statistical analysis resources, access to journals, training in specific laboratory techniques, equipment and funding for research-related activities. Conclusions: Key areas of needs not currently provided by the African Pharmacological Science Gateway e-infrastructure were identified to guide further provision of resources on the e-infrastructure and potentially enhance research capacity within the continent.