This selection of companies with in-house R&D in Africa primarily features large organizations, with a notable presence of higher education institutions and state-owned enterprises. Key players include Sonatrach, an Algerian government-owned entity covering all aspects of the oil and gas industry, and OCP Group, a Moroccan company providing phosphate-based fertilizers for sustainable agriculture. Also present are S.A.S., which produces liquid fuels and chemicals from coal, and EVA pharma, a pharmaceutical manufacturer focused on accessible high-value medicines.
A significant pattern in this data is the strong representation of universities, such as the University of Cape Town and the University of South Africa, highlighting a focus on research and academic excellence across the continent. Beyond education, the list also shows a mix of heavy industries, including oil and gas, mining, and chemical manufacturing, indicating diverse areas of R&D investment.
| # | Company | Employees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sonatrachsonatrach.com
This Algerian government-owned company exploits hydrocarbon resources, covering all aspects of the oil and gas industry chain: upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. |
47,510 | |||
| 2 | 31,000 | ||||
| 3 |
OCP Groupocpgroup.ma
A leading Moroccan company providing phosphate-based fertilizers for soil health, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting food security and Africa's development |
13,395 | |||
| 4 |
University of Cape Townuct.ac.za
Leading African university focused on research, academic excellence, social justice, producing globally recognized graduates, and promoting diversity and transformation. |
11,751 | |||
| 5 |
University of South Africa/Universiteit van Suid-Afrikaunisa.ac.za
A comprehensive institution offering open learning and distance education, producing graduates who succeed with diligence, determination, and commitment, making contributions to society |
11,711 | |||
| 6 |
Zagazig Universityzu.edu.eg
Zagazig University is an Egyptian educational institution offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines to contribute to the country's development and progress |
9,179 | |||
| 7 |
Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transportaast.edu
This organization offers education, training, scientific research, and community service to students from Arab and African countries since 1972. |
8,228 | |||
| 8 | 7,962 | ||||
| 9 |
EVA pharmaevapharma.com
A diverse top team offers accessible high value medicines and healthcare solutions, focusing on saving and improving lives globally |
6,076 | |||
| 10 |
University of the Western Capeuwc.ac.za
A national university dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and nurturing South Africa's cultural diversity while addressing societal needs creatively and critically |
6,000 | |||
| 11 |
University of Cape Coastucc.edu.gh
An equal opportunity university providing quality education through liberal and professional programmes, distance learning, and modern technologies to train professionals |
5,734 | |||
| 12 |
Assiut Universityb.aun.edu.eg
Established in 1957, this university in Upper Egypt prepares highly qualified graduates with specialized academic knowledge and training expertise in various skills |
5,090 | |||
| 13 |
Durban University of Technologydut.ac.za
A leading university of technology in KwaZulu-Natal with a focus on high-quality education, research, innovation, and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its members |
4,250 | |||
| 14 |
University of Ilorin, Nigeriaunilorin.edu.ng
Public university offering diverse academic programs, established by federal government decree, located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. |
3,652 | |||
| 15 |
University of Gondaruog.edu.et
A prestigious higher education institution in Ethiopia, dedicated to teaching, learning, research, and community engagement to develop future leaders for positive impact |
3,597 | |||
| 16 | 3,587 | ||||
| 17 |
Transnet Engineeringtransnetengineering.net
A global engineering division offering research, manufacturing, and maintenance services/products to the rail industry, with a focus on the African continent |
3,504 | |||
| 18 |
HPShps-worldwide.com
Provider of global payment solutions and services, enabling transaction processing across multiple channels and payment methods for diverse clients. |
3,341 | |||
| 19 |
The British University in Egyptbue.edu.eg
The company offers quality UK-standard education in Egypt, focusing on research, academics, and preparing students for the job market |
3,036 | |||
| 20 |
UM6P - University Mohammed VI Polytechnicum6p.ma
Hub of education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship fostering leadership and training through global partnerships and practical learning approaches. |
3,028 | |||
| 21 |
University of Fort Hareufh.ac.za
An academic institution offering various degree programs with campuses in Eastern Cape, known for educating influential figures in Africa |
2,993 | |||
| 22 |
Rhodes Universityru.ac.za
A prestigious South African university known for academic excellence, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with a focus on research and student success |
2,949 | |||
| 23 |
Modern Sciences and Arts Universitymsa.edu.eg
A university in Egypt offering British Higher Education, dual-origin degrees, scholarships, and a state-of-the-art campus for academic excellence |
2,867 | |||
| 24 |
Fayoum Universityfayoum.edu.eg
A public university in Al Fayyum, Egypt, offering a wide range of faculties, including Education, Agriculture, Engineering, Medicine, and more |
2,802 | |||
| 25 |
PathCarepathcare.co.za
PathCare Laboratories is a network of pathology labs offering a wide range of testing services for medical, veterinary, environmental, and industrial purposes with a focus on quality and innovation |
2,755 | |||
| 26 |
Pharco Corporationpharco.org
A leading pharmaceutical corporation in Egypt, specializing in developing, manufacturing, and distributing a wide range of branded and generic drugs worldwide |
2,710 | |||
| 27 |
AECI Miningaecimining.com
Provider of state-of-the-art mining chemicals and explosives to optimize mineral processing and enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in mining operations globally |
2,463 | |||
| 28 |
Mount Kenya University - MKUmku.ac.ke
A chartered university offering diverse courses, promoting academic excellence, career prospects, and student welfare through innovative programs, research, and ICT integration |
2,393 | |||
| 29 |
Agricultural Research Councilarc.agric.za
A leading science institution conducting research, developing human capital, and fostering innovation to support and advance the agricultural sector |
2,370 | |||
| 30 |
The Aurum Institutelinktr.ee
African organization with 21 years experience leading efforts to eradicate TB and HIV through research, treatment, and collaboration with various sectors |
2,249 | |||
| 31 |
Central University of Technology, Free Statecut.ac.za
Dedicated to quality education and training in science, engineering, and technology, developing into a leading institution nationally and internationally with academic excellence. |
2,000 | |||
| 32 |
MCV - Manufacturing Commercial Vehiclesmcv-eg.com
A leading bus manufacturer in the Middle East and Africa, providing innovative, reliable, high-quality commercial vehicles to global customers worldwide |
1,932 | |||
| 33 |
Right to Carerighttocare.org
The company provides innovative HIV/TB care, pharmacy automation, male medical circumcision, and cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment services through research-driven solutions |
1,871 | |||
| 34 |
Global Napi Pharmaceuticalsglobalnapi.com
A pharmaceutical company focused on delivering high-quality medicines and healthcare products, with a commitment to sustainable development and international business expansion |
1,718 | |||
| 35 |
Groupe Managemmanagemgroup.com
Mining company with 90 years of experience, focusing on mineral valorization, international expansion, production capacity, cost reduction, and R&D investment. |
1,679 | |||
| 36 |
Rivers State Universityrsu.edu.ng
An educational institution offering a range of programs in science, technology, education, law, management, agriculture, and environmental sciences with a focus on excellence and creativity |
1,664 | |||
| 37 |
Polyoak Packagingpolyoakpackaging.co.za
A leading supplier of rigid plastic packaging in Southern Africa, specializing in thermoformed, blow-, injection- and compression-moulded packaging for various sectors |
1,643 | |||
| 38 |
Future University in Egyptfue.edu.eg
A private university in Egypt offering high-quality education, committed to excellence in teaching and research, with a diverse and dedicated faculty |
1,626 | |||
| 39 |
Brookside Dairybrookside.co.ke
East Africa’s largest milk processor producing high quality dairy products, partnering with farmers, and committed to customer satisfaction and global standards |
1,552 | |||
| 40 |
Nile Universitynu.edu.eg
Research institution focused on technology and business education, offering diplomas, masters, PhDs, undergraduate, and executive programs in collaboration with global partners. |
1,532 | |||
| 41 |
Biopharmbiopharmdz.com
A pharmaceutical group with a state-of-the-art production unit and distribution network, specializing in medication production, wholesale distribution, pharmacy services, medical promotion, and pharmaceutical logistics |
1,485 | |||
| 42 |
Fujikura Automotive Moroccofujikura-automotive.com
Creating exceptional value worldwide for clients using "Tsunagu" technologies |
1,475 | |||
| 43 |
International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)ilri.org
An organization conducting research on livestock to improve food security and alleviate poverty in developing countries through global partnerships |
1,466 | |||
| 44 |
Bell Equipment Mining & Constructionbellequipment.com
A global leader in the Articulated Dump Truck market, offering a diverse range of equipment and strong customer support across multiple industries worldwide |
1,462 | |||
| 45 |
Université Mouloud Mammeri Tizi-Ouzouummto.dz
A higher education institution located in Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, providing academic programs and research opportunities for students in various fields |
1,454 | |||
| 46 |
Michael Okpara' University of Agriculture Umudikemouau.edu.ng
Leading institution producing top graduates in agriculture, science, and technology Offering practical training for professional competency and self-employment Emphasizing educational excellence and sustainable food production |
1,442 | |||
| 47 |
EIPICOeipico.com.eg
A pharmaceutical company established in 1980, specializing in manufacturing and exporting high-quality drugs, with a focus on customer satisfaction, employee well-being, and environmental responsibility |
1,436 | |||
| 48 |
AEL Mining Servicesaelminingservices.com
Leading developer, producer, and supplier of commercial explosives, initiating systems, and blasting services for mining, quarrying, and construction markets in Africa and Indonesia |
1,387 | |||
| 49 |
Colas Afriquecolas.com
A global leader in construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure in Africa for over 90 years, focusing on innovation and human capital development |
1,360 | |||
| 50 |
University of Mauritiusuom.ac.mu
Public university offering diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs, focusing on research, consultancy, and innovative learning technologies for Mauritius economy. |
1,321 | |||
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| 51 |
NTT DATA Middle East and Africaservices.global.ntt
Global innovator in business and technology services, specializing in helping clients innovate, optimize, and transform through R&D investments and diverse expertise |
1,318 | |||
| 52 |
BURNburnstoves.com
A company focused on creating efficient cookstoves to positively impact people, forests, and the climate while promoting gender equality and innovation |
1,308 | |||
| 53 | 1,285 | ||||
| 54 |
Synthite Industries Pvt. Ltdsynthite.com
World's largest manufacturer, exporter of spice oleoresins and essential oils, providing plant-derived flavor and fragrance solutions across diverse sectors globally. |
1,280 | |||
| 55 |
The Technical University of Kenyatukenya.ac.ke
A leading technical university in Kenya, offering diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees to students in a variety of fields |
1,279 | |||
| 56 |
SOGEA MAROCsogea-maroc.com
A key player in construction in Morocco, offering hydraulic, civil engineering, industrial engineering, and building services with integrated expertise and innovative solutions |
1,278 | |||
| 57 |
Derivcoderivco.com
Provides technology infrastructure, software, and management platforms for iGaming brands using AI to invent cutting-edge products and innovate beyond boundaries. |
1,220 | |||
| 58 |
Zewail City of Science and Technologyzewailcity.edu.eg
A science and technology organization focused on education, research, and innovation to elevate local technologies and increase national productivity |
1,197 | |||
| 59 |
University of Ghana Medical Centerugmedicalcentre.org
An ultra-modern medical center in Ghana providing top-tier health services, training, and research locally and internationally |
1,193 | |||
| 60 |
Groupe Saidal SPAsaidalgroup.dz
SAIDAL is an industrial group focused on developing, manufacturing, and marketing pharmaceutical products for human use, with majority ownership by the government |
1,184 | |||
| 61 |
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences Universitysmu.ac.za
Established as a health sciences university by the South African government, following the separation from the University of Limpopo based on recommendations |
1,177 | |||
| 62 |
HSRC (Human Sciences Research Council)hsrc.ac.za
The Human Sciences Research Council conducts social-scientific projects in partnership globally, with a focus on Africa, to support development and policy-making |
1,177 | |||
| 63 |
Children's Cancer Hospital - Egypt 5735757357.org
A childhood cancers hospital in Cairo providing free treatment regardless of ability to pay, focusing on curing, caring, learning, research, and community outreach |
1,165 | |||
| 64 |
Université Cadi Ayyaduca.ma
A dynamic university offering diverse academic programs, research opportunities, and international collaboration, dedicated to providing quality education, fostering innovation, and supporting economic development |
1,149 | |||
| 65 |
African Industries Groupafricanindustries.com
A diversified conglomerate with 52 years of excellence in manufacturing, contributing to socio-economic growth and development in Nigeria |
1,148 | |||
| 66 |
National Space Research & Development Agency (NASRDA)central.nasrda.gov.ng
Specializing in integrating space science and technology into national development strategies for sustainable progress and growth |
1,148 | |||
| 67 |
Amoun Pharmaceutical Companyamoun.com
A leading pharmaceutical company in the Middle East and Africa with a state-of-the-art factory producing a wide range of human, veterinary, and food supplement products |
1,126 | |||
| 68 |
Ecole Marocaine des Sciences de l'ingénieuremsi.ma
The company is a Moroccan engineering school focused on providing high-quality education, strong employability, research, innovation, and international openness in various engineering fields |
1,125 | |||
| 69 |
South African Medical Research Councilsamrc.ac.za
Driving health research and innovation in South Africa to improve the population's well-being and quality of life through relevant studies and technology transfer |
1,041 | |||
| 70 |
ACTIA Engineering Serviceslab-engineering.actia.tn
Leader in R&D for Automotive and Telecom industries, specializing in embedded software, mechanical and electronic development, testing, certification, and tooling |
1,029 | |||
| 71 |
Armscorarmscor.co.za
Specializing in complex defense and security acquisition projects, research, and development solutions for all branches of the military |
1,029 | |||
| 72 |
Minapharm Pharmaceuticalsminapharm.com
A leading pharmaceutical company in Egypt and the Middle East, specializing in cellular and bioprocess engineering, offering a range of life-saving products |
1,026 | |||
| 73 |
Université de Mostaganemuniv-mosta.dz
An educational institution located in Algeria, offering a range of academic programs to over 28,000 students with a faculty of 830 members |
1,002 | |||
| 74 |
EMECemec.com.eg
EMEC provides drilling fluids products and services to international oil and gas operators in the Middle East, maximizing productivity and cost-efficiency |
994 | |||
| 75 |
MiX Telematicspowerfleet.com
A global provider of connected solutions for fleet management, offering safety, efficiency, sustainability, compliance, and security services to customers worldwide |
980 | |||
| 76 |
Kisii Universitykisiiuniversity.ac.ke
A higher education institution located in Kenya offering a range of academic programs and services to students |
974 | |||
| 77 |
Multotec Group of Companiesmultotec.com
Specializing in beneficiation technology, Multotec Group offers customized solutions for the mining industry, focusing on reducing costs and improving efficiency through diverse product offerings |
968 | |||
| 78 |
CHEMIPHARMchemipharm.net
Chemipharm is a leading pharmaceutical and FMCG company serving 24 countries in the MENA region, focused on quality, affordability, and innovation in healthcare products |
967 | |||
| 79 |
LVCT HEALTHlvcthealth.org
Kenyan NGO providing integrated HIV services, SGBV programming, research, training, and capacity building to reduce HIV infections and promote community health |
963 | |||
| 80 |
Université Hadj Lakhdar de Batnauniv-batna.dz
A higher education institution located in Batna, Algeria, providing academic opportunities for students in various fields of study |
957 | |||
| 81 |
Stellantis Middle East & Africastellantis.com
This company is a leading sustainable mobility tech company with iconic brands, offering innovative products and services to customers worldwide |
956 | |||
| 82 |
Cooper Pharmacooperpharma.ma
A leading Moroccan pharmaceutical company with a wide range of own-brand and licensed generic products, manufacturing, distributing, and exporting pharmaceuticals globally |
952 | |||
| 83 |
Machakos Universitymksu.ac.ke
The company is a university focused on providing quality education through teaching, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship with a vision of global excellence |
948 | |||
| 84 |
Pharma 5 Officielpharma5.ma
Founded in 1985, a leading African pharmaceutical company specializing in developing and manufacturing generic medicines, prioritizing quality, safety, and ethics |
943 | |||
| 85 |
Telnetgroupe-telnet.com
Global provider of offshore/nearshore product development services with certified quality standards, offering seamless product engineering capabilities to multinational customers in Europe |
931 | |||
| 86 |
Ethiopian Engineering Corporationeec.com.et
A large construction company in Ethiopia specializing in providing construction solutions with in-house design and build capabilities |
927 | |||
| 87 |
Université Internationale de Rabatuir.ac.ma
Higher education institution offering engineering, social sciences, health, management, and doctoral programs with international standards and strong research focus. |
923 | |||
| 88 |
KWARA STATE UNIVERSITY, MALETEkwasu.edu.ng
An academic institution offering various academic centers, research grants, partnerships with international universities, and renowned teaching staff Specializing in Aeronautical engineering |
914 | |||
| 89 |
AUG Pharmaaugpharma.com
A pharmaceutical company in 2006 promoting healthier lives in MENA through innovative remedies and a diverse product portfolio |
903 | |||
| 90 |
Takoradi Technical Universityttu.edu.gh
Specialized in providing high education in engineering, science, technology, technical and vocational training, and applied arts based on the Technical University Act, 2016 |
884 | |||
| 91 |
DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY (DeKUT)dkut.ac.ke
A public university focusing exclusively on technology, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and technology transfer |
881 | |||
| 92 |
PALMARY FOODpalmaryfood.com
Wholesale distribution of food products including fresh produce, packaged goods, and beverages to retailers and food service businesses. |
881 | |||
| 93 |
Pharco Pharmaceuticalspharco.org
A pharmaceutical company founded in 1983 specializes in developing, manufacturing, and distributing generics and branded generic drugs globally at affordable prices |
879 | |||
| 94 |
Si-Visionsi-vision.com
Leading provider of high-performance, low-power RF IP solutions for various wireless applications, with over 350 years of collective experience and global Tier-1 customer base |
876 | |||
| 95 |
Aberdare Cablesaberdare.co.za
A technology leader in Africa, specializing in high-tech power cables for various sectors, owned by a black economic-empowerment company, and part of a global cable manufacturer |
869 | |||
| 96 | 867 | ||||
| 97 |
FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLCfrieslandcampina.com.ng
A multinational manufacturing affiliate specializing in dairy products with a wide distribution network and a focus on innovation and quality excellence |
859 | |||
| 98 |
Ghana Atomic Energy Commissiongaec.gov.gh
The company promotes nuclear and biotechnological techniques for Ghana's economic and social advancement through research activities at its Institutes and Centres |
858 | |||
| 99 |
BioMED Egypt Officialbiomed-egy.net
A pharmaceutical company based in Egypt, specializing in producing a wide range of healthcare products and medications, focused on improving quality of life globally |
846 | |||
| 100 |
Mintekmintek.co.za
A leading technology organization specializing in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy, providing services, consulting, and innovative products to clients worldwide |
845 | |||
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