Genomics and Public Health: Advancing Africa’s Future Together

At the Africa Health Agenda International Conference #AHAIC 2025 in Kigali, we shared a defining moment for the future of genomics in Africa. Convened by the Rwanda Ministry of Health, Africa CDC, Michel Sidibé and Roche’s African Genomics Program, the discussion brought together the World Health Organization African Region , Ministers of Health, scientific experts and regional leaders to address a critical imperative: Genomics is a game-changer for disease surveillance, precision medicine, healthcare equity and the economies in Africa.

In a wide ranging conversation, the series of high level speakers all agreed: World class science is already happening on the continent, but in order for it to flourish, we must support the enabling ecosystem and engage communities. This demands investment in infrastructure, a highly skilled local workforce capacity and regulatory frameworks that ensure ethical and equitable research.

Collaboration will be the catalyst to the success of this effort. Governments, academia and industry must work together to accelerate and scale research, strengthen capacity and drive sustainable investment. The launch of the GenCoE-PAGRA African WGS Moonshot Project — an initiative to sequence up to 50,000 African genomes — marks a significant step forward, laying the foundation for a more inclusive, data-driven and healthier future for Africa and beyond. 

Grateful for the insights and leadership of Michel Sidibe, Dr. Yvan Butera, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Dr. Raji Tajudeen, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Prof. Christian Happi, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana and Dr. Mark McCarthy. And thank you to everyone who contributed to this important conversation. We are continuing to move forward collectively and look forward to being back at the table together again soon.