Freetown, 13th April 2026- The University of Sierra Leone is set to play a key role in a major regional initiative aimed at strengthening scientific, clinical, and genomic research on spillover pathogens across West Africa.
Dr. Alhaji U. N’jai, Principal Investigator of the Strengthening Clinical and Genomic Research Capacity on Arbovirus (SC-GRA) project in Sierra Leone, has commended the West African Consortium for Clinical Research on Epidemic Pathogens (WAC-CREP) for spearheading a collaborative scientific effort across five countries: Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mali.
The initiative seeks to enhance regional capacity in clinical and genomic research on arboviral diseases, while fostering stronger collaboration among higher education institutions, research bodies, and policymakers across Africa and beyond. Supported by the Science for Africa Foundation, the program aims to promote world-class, innovative research that translates into practical, locally relevant solutions to strengthen pandemic preparedness and health systems in the region.
A major component of the initiative is the development of young African scientists through targeted training and mentorship, equipping them with the skills needed to respond effectively to current and future epidemics.
Speaking at the project’s inception meeting held in Bamako, Mali, on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Dr. N’jai described the initiative as a “game changer” not only for West Africa but for global health.
“What we have here is a collective effort that goes beyond the five countries involved. The work we are doing is about preventing pandemics on a global scale,” he said.
Reflecting on recent health crises such as Ebola, COVID-19, Mpox, and emerging threats like Marburg and arboviruses, Dr. N’jai emphasized the importance of proactive approaches to disease prevention.
“We have faced significant challenges during past outbreaks, and those challenges persist. This initiative is about thinking ahead of these pathogens—being proactive rather than reactive,” he added.
He further called for sustained support and collaboration from national governments, universities, and public health institutions to strengthen leadership, preparedness, and response systems across the region.
The launch meeting has brought together project investigators, coordinators, and stakeholders from all five partner countries to formally kick-start project activities, align implementation strategies, and deepen institutional collaboration.
Throughout the week, participating teams will present their project goals, work plans, and governance structures. Activities will also include training sessions, technical discussions, and coordination of research and genomic capacity-building efforts.
With Africa experiencing over 100 disease outbreaks annually, the initiative underscores the urgent need for workforce development, stronger engagement with policymakers, and coordinated regional responses to emerging health threats.
