KEMRI Hosts EDCTP3 Delegation to Bolster Clinical Trials Ethics in East and Southern Africa.

The Institute recently welcomed a delegation from the Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking, led by Ms. Liesbet De Cock, Head of Operations, on September 18, 2024. The visit marked a key moment in the ongoing implementation of the ‘Strengthening Ethics and Responsible Conduct of Clinical Trials in East and Southern Africa’ (SERCEA) project, an initiative funded by EDCTP3.

The delegation was received by Prof. Elizabeth Bukusi, Principal Investigator (PI) of the SERCEA Project, who represented KEMRI’s Acting Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok. The meeting provided a critical platform for in-depth discussions on the progress, status, and challenges of the SERCEA project, which aims to elevate ethical standards and ensure the responsible conduct of clinical trials across East and Southern Africa.

During the session, Ms. Liesbet De Cock emphasized EDCTP3’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote ethical rigor in clinical trials. “I encourage researchers to actively pursue new funding opportunities that are available through the EDCTP3 framework,” she said, highlighting the potential for innovation and transformative research through collaborative efforts.

Prof. Bukusi echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the significant role that EDCTP3 plays in advancing ethical clinical research in Africa. She noted the importance of the framework for non-communicable diseases, which are becoming more prevalent in the region, and expressed optimism about the SERCEA project’s progress. “The project is advancing well, and all necessary clearances for full implementation are on course,” she said, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration with EDCTP3.

The Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking plays a crucial role in advancing research and innovation to address critical health challenges, particularly in infectious diseases and poverty-related conditions. By strengthening ethical frameworks and fostering responsible clinical research, EDCTP3 is helping to improve health outcomes across Africa.

In addition to Ms. Liesbet De Cock, the EDCTP3 delegation included Vincent Declerfayt, Head of Administration and Finance; Neodia Mensing-Flores, Financial Officer; SERCEA Principal Investigator Prof. Elizabeth Bukusi presenting during the meeting Abdoulie Barry, Acting Executive Director and Director of Finance and Administration; and Pauline Beattie, Operations Manager.

The visit underscores EDCTP3’s ongoing support in building sustainable capacity for clinical research in Africa, ensuring that future studies are conducted with the highest ethical standards, ultimately leading to better health outcomes across the continent.