The Dakar Declaration was put forward at the 2016 global meeting of the Next Einstein Forum held in Dakar, Senegal. It focuses on advancing African science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), with particular encouragement for women and young scientists (go.nature.com/29ra0k6; see also Nature 531, 275; 2016). Previous attempts to create a scientific identity for Africa have met with limited success, so it is crucial to improve the continent's research environment if we are to realize and maintain its potential.

In many African countries, this research environment is characterized by sparse financial, human and capital resources, lack of opportunities and inadequate infrastructure. Such conditions drive many young and talented scientists to leave for other parts of the world.

In our view, plans to move STEM forward in African countries should focus on strategic utilization of scientific research for economic and societal development. Restructuring of the governance of science and technology is essential for a knowledge-based economy. The call to invest more in promising young African scientists should encourage their reintegration into their home countries after working and studying abroad — and prevent a brain drain in the long term.