Innovative development in Africa: cluster and triple helix approach

This paper is based on the conceptual and theoretical analysis regarding the triple helix model as the demand or a challenge for a developing country, particularly the Sub-Sahara case study under investigation. The paper discusses the essential stages required to establish a robust synergy between three different actors: the university, the industry and the government alongside the local context in Africa, mainly the role of the university in providing help for SMEs in Africa together with the government or other institutional developing agencies. This paper also explores the promotion of SMEs by clustering approach as African SMEs are scattered across the region. Furthermore, this paper analyzes the potential strengths and weaknesses within African SMEs, of setting up appropriate strategic movements for the future of the triple helix paradigm itself. It will start with the lessons learned from the implementation of the triple helix in the developed countries then look at the local African context in order to bridge the gaps within the actors involved.