In response to the COVID-19 virus, Black people have rolled up their sleeves and are working diligently to thwart its ruin in communities around the world. From implementing effective containment strategies to creating medical equipment, supplies, and improved testing processes—prevention efforts are underway. These “can do” efforts reflect a long history of Africans producing knowledge and technology that benefits the world. This article delineates some of the early African achievements in science and technology, like the development of mathematical concepts more than 35,000 years ago and the medicinal use of plants with salicylic acid (used in aspirin) for pain. Written by a biologist, this article offers a lens through which to view the lineage of prevention efforts offered by Black doctors, inventors, and others working to end the COVID-19 pandemic. They represent a long tradition of Black people creating and producing what is needed to solve problems and thrive. Click here to be historically inspired.