The African Light Source Project: Research Infrastructure, Excellence, Training, SDGs, Innovation, Diplomacy

Synchrotron light sources are the world's most transformational science facilities in terms of the breadth of scientific reach and applicability, engineering advancement and social and economic return on investment. The African Light Source (AfLS) project powers the vision for a large scale research infrastructure, known as a light source, in Africa. This super microscope is capable of addressing all the UN SDGs, including Africa specific challenges. It is a premier instrument which can support massive human capacity building and globally competitive research across many disciplines. It also supports innovation, and competitive industry. This contribution reflects on progress, including the recent release of the Conceptual Design Report (CDR), and the reports from the three Strategic Task Forces (STFs): on multi-state African membership of an International Light Source, on the African Beam line at an International Light Source, and on smaller infrastructure development throughout Africa. We will also hear of new partnerships and developing networks at the global level. Notable scientific projects, and major scientific training will be reported on. The future holds a developing schedule towards the African Light Source, with a decision for build at a site in Africa by 2035.