Moderator

Dr. Mohamed ZahirMuhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, Tanzania

Speakers/Panelist

1. Dr. Annette Uwineza – University of Rwanda
2. Prof. Hughes Abriel – University of Bern, Switzerland
3. Ms. Rizwana Mai – South African Medical Research Council
4. Dr. Oyesola Ojewunmi – London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

Themes discussed:

• Academic transformation in Human Genetics: Curriculum, Training, and Research
• Activism and Advocacy in Advancing Genetic Medicine
• Building Educational Capacity and infrastructure for Genetics and Data Science
• Sustainable Models for Genetic Medicine in African Healthcare

Summary text:

Africa’s genetic diversity plays a crucial role in advancing precision medicine. Many mutations relevant to African populations are overlooked in studies focused on Western populations. Whilst it is important to include African populations, we still face significant challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited genomic data, poor funding, and a small healthcare workforce. The potential of AI and telemedicine to enhance diagnostics and improve healthcare outcomes, especially in underserved regions, is noteworthy. Discussions highlighted ongoing community engagement, inclusivity and integration of genomics in African healthcare to address inequities and the need for capacity development in genetics and data science.