Uganda Hosts 15th AfSHG Conference to Advance Genomics Research in Africa

Feb 3, 2025 - 18:44
 0
Uganda Hosts 15th AfSHG Conference to Advance Genomics Research in Africa

The global genomics community is turning its attention to Uganda this week as the country hosts the 15th African Society of Human Genetics (AfSHG) Conference, a landmark event focused on advancing genomics research across the continent.

Held at Speke Resort Munyonyo from February 3rd to 7th, the conference brings together over 300 leading scientists, policymakers, and industry experts from Africa and beyond under the theme “Harnessing Data Science and Artificial Intelligence for African Genomics.”

The conference, organized by the MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit in collaboration with Makerere University, seeks to bridge critical research gaps in African genomics through collaboration, technology, and policy innovation.

Experts will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and data science can transform genomics research, enabling breakthroughs in early disease diagnosis, precision medicine, and drug development tailored to African populations.

Professor Moffat Nyirenda, Director of the MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving genomics forward. “The key to advancing genomics research in Africa lies in building strong, sustainable collaborations,” said Prof. Nyirenda.

“This conference provides a unique opportunity for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to come together and drive innovation through collective expertise and shared resources.”

With genomics still underexplored in Africa, the AfSHG Conference will focus on genomic insights into rare and common diseases to improve early diagnosis and personalized medicine, ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of genomics research, including equitable data governance and Africa led policy frameworks, AI and data science in genomics to unlock new possibilities in disease prediction and drug development, and strengthening research networks to accelerate discoveries and ensure Africa plays a leading role in global genomics.

The conference will also mark a major milestone with the launch of the Uganda Society for Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (USHGB). This initiative, comprised of early to mid-career genomics researchers, aims to strengthen local expertise, foster mentorship programs, and drive regional collaboration in genomic and bioinformatics research.

A major highlight of the conference will be the launch of KidneyGenAfrica, a cross-African partnership designed to enhance research and training in the genomics of kidney disease. The initiative will bring together academic and research institutions from Africa, Europe, and the United States, focusing on building expertise and resources for large-scale genomic analysis.

The MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s General Population Cohort in southwestern Uganda, which holds over 35 years of rich linked data, will serve as a key resource for the study. Researchers aim to uncover genetic factors behind kidney disease in African populations, ultimately improving diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Prof. Segun Fatumo, Director of KidneyGenAfrica and Chair of the Conference, highlighted the significance of integrating AI into genomics research.

“This conference is more than an exchange of ideas, it is a call to action for scientists, policymakers, and industry experts to harness artificial intelligence to unlock Africa’s genomic potential and drive medical treatments that are effective for everyone irrespective of their ethnic background," said Prof. Fatumo.

In addition to high-impact discussions, the AfSHG Conference will celebrate outstanding contributions to genomics research in Africa. The event will feature interactive poster presentations, networking sessions, and affiliate society meetings aimed at fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and inspiring the next generation of African genomic scientists.

Founded in 2003, the African Society of Human Genetics (AfSHG) aims to equip African scientists and policymakers with the knowledge and tools necessary to advance genomics research. The organization also works to elevate the contributions of African researchers on the global stage. With Uganda hosting this year’s conference, the event is set to redefine the future of genomics on the continent, ensuring Africa remains at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation.

Benjamin Mwibo Benjamin Mwibo is a talented, passionate and creative journalist with a commitment to high quality out put that is factual and researched. Above all Dedicated with a strong desire to identify the truth of the matter.