Science communicator & Founder/Host of ImmunoAfrica Podcast shares insights from his #scicomm work

In this episode of CivicSciTV Africa, host Stephanie Okeyo speaks with Wealth Okete, biochemist, science communicator, and host of the ImmunoAfrica podcast. Wealth shares his journey into science communication, which he stumbled upon while at university after reading an article on its impact in Africa. Driven by his passion for immunology and the desire to share African research in the field, he launched ImmunoAfrica in 2022.

Wealth discusses the unique challenges and opportunities for African scientists, emphasizing the importance of tailoring immunology solutions to Africa’s needs and fostering intracontinental collaboration. He shares insights from scicomm and podcasting noting that while audio content is accessible for low-literacy audiences, expanding into radio and TV could enhance outreach.

Despite challenges like self-funding and finding guests, Wealth’s goal is to increase public understanding of immunology in Africa, combat misinformation, and document the evolution of immunological research across the continent. He envisions collaborations with African podcasters, scientists, and immunological societies to elevate African voices in science.

Stephanie Okeyo

Stephanie Okeyo is a Microbiologist and Science Communicator. She is the founder of Under the Microscope. Some of her previous professional roles include Ambassador of Women in Science, East Africa and Representative to the United Nations office, Geneva at the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT). In 2019, she was listed as one of Under 30: Breaking Barriers Women in STEM and is a 2021 Zuri STEM category nominee. Stephanie is passionate about empowering young girls and being a voice for gender equality in Science and Technology.