The kick-off meeting, convened at the Africa CDC Office in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, signified a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the African CDC and the European Commission Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) to strengthen outbreak detection and disease surveillance throughout Africa.

Through these projects implemented by the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA), Africa CDC, and HERA, in partnership with African Union (AU) Member States, the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) and the Africa Public Health Foundation (APHF), will strengthen national and regional capacities to promptly detect outbreaks, support the integration of AMR genomic surveillance, and facilitate swift and high-quality data sharing for public health decision-making.

His Excellency Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa CDC, emphasized the significance of this partnership stating, “The increasing number of outbreaks is driven by complex ecological, climatic, political, economic, and social factors, all of which are becoming more exacerbated on our continent. These projects are poised to strengthen laboratory detection and surveillance of emerging, re-emerging, and endemic diseases, as well as antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in Africa. They also highlight the strategic partnership between Africa CDC and the European Commission.”

Laurent Muschel, Acting Director General of HERA, emphasized, “In the face of ongoing global health challenges, Africa CDC and HERA are taking together concrete actions to strengthen detection of outbreaks, AMR genomic surveillance, and timely data sharing across Africa. Fortifying multi-pathogen molecular detection and sequencing capabilities in the African Union is essential for global health security.”

Africa CDC’s shift towards Africa PGI 2.0 signifies a transition from emergency response to building an optimized, resilient, and integrated molecular diagnostic and genomic surveillance ecosystem. It is critical and timely to incorporate lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, and empower national and regional reference laboratories to expand their capabilities to detect and characterize epidemic and pandemic-prone diseases. As demonstrated in previous outbreaks, molecular detection and genomic sequencing improves early detection and response to public health emergencies. Mr. Nqobile Ndlovu, CEO of ASLM, remarked, “The launch of the two projects is pivotal in devising scalable and sustainable approaches for integrating molecular diagnostics and sequencing within Africa’s routine surveillance structures. We are eager to collaborate with the Africa CDC and HERA to strengthen laboratory systems ensuring effective responses to current and future health threats”.

“APHF will continue to strengthen collaboration with the Africa CDC and HERA to support the flagship Pathogen Genomics Initiative (Africa PGI) and advance public health laboratory systems for pandemic preparedness and response.” Said Dr. Ebere Okereke, CEO of APHF

The Africa CDC is working with ASLM, APHF, Member States, the Africa Laboratory Technical Working Group, and other partners to ensure the effective and successful implementation of the two projects.

# #

For more information:

Dr. Sofonias Tessema, Program Lead, Africa PGI |Africa CDC| sofoniast@africacdc.org

Media inquiries:

Ms. Margaret Muigai Edwin, Director, Communication & Public Information Directorate: Africa CDC |

Tel: +255 742 635 592 | Email: edwinm@africacdc.org

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is the continental autonomous Health agency of the African Union that strengthens the capacity and capability of Africa’s public health institutions as well as partnerships to detect and respond quickly and effectively to disease threats and outbreaks, based on data-driven interventions and programmes. Learn more at: http://www.africacdc.org 

About Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority

The Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) is a directorate-general of the European Commission with a mission to prevent, detect, and rapidly respond to health emergencies. HERA aims to assess potential health threats, promote research and development, manufacturing, procurement, and equitable distribution of key medical countermeasures to strengthen the EU’s health emergency preparedness and response. Learn more at https://commission.europa.eu

About Africa Public Health Foundation 

The Africa Public Health Foundation exists to forge partnerships and mobilize resources to support critical public health initiatives across the continent, in support of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Learn more at https://aphf.africa/

About African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) The African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) is a pan-African professional body working to advocate for the critical role and needs of laboratory medicine and networks throughout Africa. ASLM aims to strengthen healthcare systems through collaborative efforts with governments, local and international organizations, implementing partners, and the private sector. Learn more at www.aslm.org

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About the Project
Approximately 700,000 deaths occur globally annually due to infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens. In Africa, western sub-Saharan Africa,
is disproportionately affected by AMR relative to other regions. The pervasiveness of AMR in this region threatens to reverse health gains made over the past years,
curtailing the achievement of sustainable development goals. Thus, a robust surveillance system to the emergence and spread of AMR, particularly in bloodstream
infections (BSIs) which are associated with high morbidity and mortality is much needed. In this project, genomic sequencing technologies will be employed to rapidly analyse genomic sequences, identify markers of resistance, and facilitate timely data sharing to support evidence-based decision-making for public health
interventions.

The post The Africa Pathogen Genomics Initative (Africa PGI) Integrated Genomic Surveillance and Data Sharing Platform (IGS) appeared first on Africa CDC.

About the Project
In 2023, 166 outbreaks and public health events were reported in Africa. This calls for a resilient laboratory systems for timely detection and reporting of current and future outbreaks. This project aims to scale up molecular diagnostic and genomic sequencing-based detection and characterization of outbreaks.
Africa CDC is working with Member States to develop guidance, diagnostic algorithm, training and capacity building to enable outbreak detection, and reporting to inform public health response.

The post The Africa Pathogen Genomics Initative (Africa PGI) Integrated Genomic Surveillance for Outbreak Detection (DETECT) appeared first on Africa CDC.

Timely and efficient data transfer through the internet plays a critical role in establishing a real-time public health genomic surveillance system. However, limited bandwidth internet access remains a significant challenge in Africa, hindering the timely transfer of data and effective utilization of cloud-based or open-source web-based bioinformatics solutions and databases. To address this issue, the Africa PGI, in collaboration with ASLM, BMGF, and SpaceX, initiated a pilot project in September 2023. The primary objective of this project is to enhance access to high-speed satellite-based internet, enabling real-time, or near-real-time, transfer of pathogen genomic data and facilitating access to cloud-based resources. This high-speed internet service will not only improve data transfer but also enhance other internet-based operations such as communication, e-learning, virtual meetings, video conferences, and various other activities. The pilot project is being implemented in all Member States that have obtained regulatory approval for the operation of SpaceX’s satellite-based internet.

With the continuous expansion of the Africa CDC laboratory network, digital transformation becomes imperative to enhance efficiency. In November 2023, the Africa CDC introduced a laboratory network information management system (NIMS – https://www.pgi-nims-africacdc.org/) to monitor and facilitate informed decision-making on network operations. The NIMS system serves as a valuable resource for Africa CDC, centers of excellence, regional and national laboratories, enabling efficient tracking of biological sample shipments and ensuring their integrity during transit from referral sites to destination facilities across the network. This system also supports cross-border sample referrals for testing and sequencing. The NIMS system has undergone successful piloting for cross-border sample referral in four sites and is currently being implemented for in-country sample referral in one site. The integration of connectivity, digitization, and innovative solutions in public health genomics in Africa will contribute significantly to the detection, response, and control of infectious diseases. By strengthening genomics capacity, improving internet access, and digitizing laboratory operations, Africa is poised to harness the full potential of genomics for public health surveillance and outbreak management.

For media enquiries please contact:

Dorothy Njagi | Senior Communication Officer- Communication & Public Information directorate | Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention| African Union| email: email: njagid@africacdc.org  | Website: www.africacdc.org| Addis Ababa| Ethiopia| Facebook | Twitter

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The initiative is built upon four strategic priorities. The first priority is to enhance foundational capacities by developing skilled workforce, and networks in the fields of molecular diagnostics, genomics and bioinformatics. The second priority is to strengthen data management, analysis, sharing and translation to inform public health response. The third priority is the implementation of high priority genomic use-cases for public health through an integrated genomic surveillance system. Finally, the fourth priority is to advocate for sustainability and enabling mechanisms through a collaborative community approach involving the whole community.

Through Africa PGI 2.0, Africa CDC is shifting its focus from emergency response to building an optimized, resilient, and integrated molecular diagnostic and genomic surveillance ecosystem.

Collaboration is at the heart of Africa PGI 2.0. as Africa CDC aims to strengthen the pivotal public-philanthropic-private partnerships and create the synergy needed to maximize the impact of genomics for disease control and prevention in Africa. By prioritizing capacity-building, data management, genomic surveillance, and collaboration, Africa PGI 2.0 sets the stage for leveraging genomics to address current and future public health challenges in Africa. Through this initiative, Africa is equipping itself with the necessary tools and expertise to lead the way in disease control and prevention through genomics.

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Drawing on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become clear that the African continent must accelerate its investment in health security.  Swift responses and the development of necessary capacity are imperative. To lay the foundation for vaccine manufacturing, Africa CDC is committed to increasing its full-time manufacturing employees from 3,000 to 14,000 by 2040, aligning with their goals. mRNA technology will play a pivotal role in optimizing manufacturing processes to achieve these objectives.

The event featured key sessions, with noteworthy highlights such as “Can we build global vaccine production capacity in time for the next pandemic?” and “Africa’s move towards local manufacturing on the continent – Our framework for action and action plan by 2040.” These sessions included a keynote address by H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Africa CDC Director General, represented by Akhona Tshangela, Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) Program Coordinator, Africa CDC.

Speaking at the keynote panel representing the Director General, Ms. Akhona stressed that “PAVM framework for action (FFA) ought to position the continent not only as a recipient of vaccines but a key player in the Global Vaccine supply chain. The continent’s ability to produce vaccine and other health products brings a contribution to the global health security within the pandemic preparedness framework,” she said.

“We need to diversify capacity building for technology transfer. Currently, less than 4% of manufacturers are engaged in medicines and medical products production, and R&D is limited to less than 2%. It is crucial to invest in ensuring that medicines and medical products and R&D are effectively managed to produce our locally manufactured health products,” added Akhona.

Ms. Akhona Tshangela, Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) Program Coordinator, Africa CDC

Africa CDC further showcased its contributions to the global vaccine value chain at the exhibition spaces, featuring the PAVM, the Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative, and the Institute of Pathogen Genomics (PGI). This exhibition provided attendees with a deeper understanding of Africa CDC’s innovative work.

The World Vaccine Congress – Europe, renowned as the largest and most established European gathering focused on vaccine R&D, offered an ideal platform for discussions about R&D. The congress provided a platform to witness the remarkable work of Africa CDC and their commitment to advancing healthcare on the continent. Africa CDC’s impactful presence and the only African institution at this esteemed event reflects their dedication to creating a healthier future through vaccination.

About Africa CDC initiatives contributing to the vaccine value chain.

1. The Saving Lives and Livelihoods is a USD 1.5 billion partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and the Africa CDC that aims to ensure vaccine equity for Africa by purchasing vaccines for more than 65 million people, supporting in the delivery of vaccinations to millions more, and integrating the covid-19 vaccine into routine immunization in Africa.
2. The PAVM aims to increase vaccine production in Africa from one to 60 percent by 2040, while also focusing on developing the necessary human capital for vaccine manufacturing.
3. The Africa CDC Institute of Pathogen Genomics, through the Africa PGI, is taking significant strides in enhancing disease surveillance and public health partnerships. By establishing integrated laboratory networks, equipped with the essential tools, human resources, and data infrastructure, Africa PGI is enabling the effective utilization of genomic sequencing technologies.

Media inquiries:

Dorothy Njagi, Senior Communication Officer – Policy, Health Diplomacy & Communication: Africa CDC | Tel: +251 940 559 950 | Email: njagid@africa-union.org

Kevin Irandagiye, PAVM Communication Officer -; Africa CDC | Tel: +251 961346649 | Email: irndagiyek@africa-union.org  

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La cérémonie de remise a eu lieu au Laboratoire national de santé publique à Yaoundé, au Cameroun. Elle s’est déroulée en présence de S.E. Dr Manaouda Malachie, Dr Benjamin Djoudalbaye, représentant d’Africa CDC et de dignitaires du ministère de la santé. La cérémonie de remise est suivie d’une formation technique d’une semaine sur le séquençage génomique et la bio-informatique pour le personnel du Laboratoire national de santé publique.

L’équipement de séquençage fait partie de l’initiative de génomique des pathogènes d’Africa CDC (Africa PGI) visant à établir un réseau de laboratoires de référence régionaux pour le séquençage génomique et la bioinformatique en Afrique. Cette initiative vise à améliorer la détection et la caractérisation des nouveaux variants du SRAS-CoV-2, de la RAM, du paludisme, du choléra, d’Ebola, de Marburg et d’autres agents pathogènes prioritaires, et à soutenir la recherche et le développement de diagnostics, de vaccins et de thérapies.

Africa CDC a exprimé sa gratitude à S.E. Dr Manaouda Malachie et au Ministère de la Santé du Cameroun pour leur collaboration et leur engagement à faire progresser la santé publique en Afrique. Africa CDC se réjouit de travailler avec le Cameroun et d’autres États membres pour tirer parti des technologies génomiques afin de rendre le continent plus sain et plus sûr.

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À propos du CDC Afrique
Africa CDC est une agence de santé continentale autonome de l’Union africaine créée pour soutenir les initiatives de santé publique des États membres et renforcer la capacité de leurs institutions de santé publique à détecter, prévenir, contrôler et répondre rapidement et efficacement aux menaces de maladies.
Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter: http://www.africacdc.org
Follow Africa CDC on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn

The post Africa CDC remet du matériel et des équipements de séquençage à la République du Cameroun appeared first on Africa CDC.

The handover ceremony occurred at the National Public Health Laboratory in Yaoundé, Cameroon. It was attended by H.E Dr Manaouda Malachie, Dr Benjamin Djoudalbaye, Representative of Africa CDC and dignitaries from the Ministry of Health. The handover ceremony is followed by a one week technical training on genomic sequencing and bioinformatics for the National Public Health Laboratory personnel.

The sequencing equipment is part of the Africa CDC’s Pathogen Genomics Initiative (Africa PGI) to establish a network of regional reference laboratories for genomic sequencing and bioinformatics in Africa. The initiative aims to improve the detection and characterization of new variants of SARS-CoV-2, AMR, Malaria, Cholera, Ebola, Marburg and other priority, pathogens and to support the research and development for diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics.

The Africa CDC expressed gratitude to H.E Dr Manaouda Malachie and the Ministry of Health of Cameroon for their collaboration and commitment to advancing public health in Africa. The Africa CDC looks forward to working with Cameroon and other Member States to leverage genomic technologies for a healthier and safer continent.

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About Africa CDC
Africa CDC is a continental autonomous health agency of the African Union established to support public health initiatives of Member States and strengthen the capacity of their public health institutions to detect, prevent, control, and respond quickly and effectively to disease threats.
For more information, please visit: http://www.africacdc.org
Follow Africa CDC on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn

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The emergence and spread of drug-resistant malaria, mutated parasites that skip detection by commonly used rapid diagnostic tests, and the resurgence of malaria transmission in multiple countries are major threats to the control and ultimate elimination of malaria. A recent expansion of malaria genomics in Africa has enormous potential to help tackle these problems, but there is an urgent need to expand the workforce for the generation, analysis, interpretation and utilization of malaria molecular surveillance (MMS) data to fully realize this potential. To fill this gap, Africa CDC collaborated with IDRC, UCSF and JHU to develop and deploy an interactive, hands-on workshop, bringing together programmatic and research personnel to understand the uses of malaria genomics in augmenting public health surveillance, discuss the challenges in implementing such technology, and work together across institutions and countries to identity practical solutions.

“This training was a unique opportunity to bring together researchers and officers from the national malaria control program to support the expansion of malaria molecular surveillance to monitor the spread of drug and diagnostic resistance variants across Africa”, said Dr. Yenew Kebede, Head Division of Laboratory Systems and Networks and Acting Head of Division of Disease Surveillance and Intelligence at the Africa CDC. He further added, “The training will act as one of the avenues to bridge the gap between researchers who develop tools and generate data and the program officers who apply data to inform malaria control and elimination”.

“The knowledge and skills gained from this training workshop have the potential to further expand MMS in public health settings by facilitating networking and exchange of ideas between those working in programmatic and research settings.” said Bryan Greenhouse, Associate Professor and Co-director of the EPPIcenter program at the University of California, San Francisco.

“We hope that this training will inspire researchers and programs to work together to achieve the goal of integrating MMS into routine surveillance in their countries, with the longer-term goal of increased regional collaboration to prevent and respond to the spread of drug and diagnostic resistance,” said Jessica Briggs, Assistant Professor also from the University of California, San Francisco, who led development and delivery of the course.

The participants of this training were equipped with knowledge and skills required for the application of malaria genomic data for programmatic needs. The interactive modules in the present training workshop comprised of introduction to malaria epidemiology, molecular genomics, data management, bioinformatics and data analysis tools, translation of data into meaningful results, and ways to disseminate these results in multiple forums, along with the current state of high priority threats in the region. Trainers from the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kenya, the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI) in Ethiopia, and Brown University were also involved in the workshop.

For more information, contact:

Africa CDC – Africa PGI
Dr Sofonias Tessema
Program Lead – Africa PGI
Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sofoniast@africa-union.org

University of California, San Francisco

Dr Bryan Greenhouse

Associate Professor and Co-director of the EPPIcenter

University of California, San Francisco bryan.greenhouse@ucsf.edu

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