Pioneering Translational Behavioral Economic Research in Africa

Introduction

PROMISE Labs Africa is a pioneering scientific nonprofit conducting translational behavioral economic studies in Africa. We rapidly test existing and innovative interventions to generate actionable, evidence-based insights that can inform effective policies and drive positive outcomes for Africans.

Background

Despite commitments to allocate 1% of its GDP to research and development, Africa’s R & D funding currently stands at 0.42% - significantly below the global average of 1.7% (Caelers & Okoth, 2023). This lag arises from competing priorities of many African governments, where immediate needs like poverty alleviation, healthcare, and infrastructure are prioritized over long-term investments in research and development (Izugbara et al., 2017; Marincola & Kariuki, 2020). This underinvestment limits the continent’s ability to reach its full potential. PROMISE Labs Africa is uniquely positioned to addresses this gap by offering a rapid, rigorous, cost-effective and safe approach to model critical issues and inform policy interventions using behavioral economic projects (Figure 1).

Core Research Team

Promise Tewogbola, PhD (Founder and CEO): With a PhD in Applied Psychology, an MS in Public Health, and a BS in Physiology, Dr. Tewogbola brings a multidisciplinary approach to behavioral research and policy implementation.

Deborah Odaudu (Research Associate): Holding a BSc in Social Work from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Deborah contributes to the qualitative aspects of our research, with interests in community development and public health.

Kamikun Adekunle (Research Associate): With a BS in Psychology from Covenant University, Kamikun supports our research on behavioral health, with a focus on anxiety, substance use, and women’s health.

Next Steps

• Analyze and disseminate findings: We will publish results in leading journals and disseminate insights through reports and presentations.

• Secure additional funding: We aim to attract donors and pursue grants to expand our research capacity.

• Launch new projects: As of Fall 2025, planned new studies will focus on malaria prevention, environmental sustainability and alternative approaches to public safety.

• Expand research team: We plan to recruit additional researchers and volunteers to enhance our team’s capacity.

• Strengthen partnerships: We will cultivate strong collaborations with universities, NGOs, and government agencies to amplify our impact.

Vision

We envision an Africa where evidence-based policies, informed by our translational research, drive rapid and sustainable positive change. By contributing to Africa’s research capacity and inspiring a new generation of researchers and policymakers, we aim to create a self-sustaining cycle of research, implementation, and evaluation that continuously improves African lives and unlocks the continent’s full potential.