The 12th EDCTP Forum, held from 15–20 June 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, brought together scientists, funders, policymakers, and public health leaders under the theme “Partnerships for Global Health Research Equity.”
The Forum offered a packed agenda of symposia, workshops, and high-level discussions that highlighted Africa’s growing leadership in health research and innovation. From malaria vaccine development and tuberculosis prevention to digital innovation and epidemic preparedness, the sessions reflected both the complexity of the challenges and the strength of the collaborative responses underway.
Special attention was given to research capacity building, clinical trial coordination, and the value of Africa-Europe partnerships in addressing diseases of regional and global concern. Conversations also tackled the ethical and legal dimensions of digital health, the role of funders in developing future research leaders, and the importance of inclusive, people-centred technologies.
Regional networks such as GenEpi were spotlighted for their role in advancing genomic surveillance, data sharing, and rapid outbreak response efforts across the continent.
Throughout the week, there was a strong sense that the Forum was more than a scientific meeting—it was a call to action. Achieving health equity demands shared resources, mutual learning, and long-term commitment.
As the Forum drew to a close, the message was clear: African-led research is not only essential to addressing global health challenges—it is driving the agenda forward.
