Breaking Barriers in African Virology
The 2nd Biennial African Virology Conference (AVC) 2024, held from November 25–27 at the Exclusive Serene Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria, was a resounding success, bringing together leading virologists, researchers, and policymakers from across Africa and beyond. Under the theme “Trends in Emerging and Re-emerging Viruses,” the conference provided a vital platform for discussions on virology research, surveillance, diagnostics, and response strategies to viral threats affecting the continent and the world.
The conference commenced with a warm welcome from Prof. Maryam Aminu, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee, who emphasized the importance of collaboration, capacity building, and the empowerment of African scientists in shaping the future of virology research. Prof. Theophilus Adiku, Chair of the African Virology Network (AVN), echoed this sentiment, and called for increased government and private sector investment to bolster Africa’s virology research and infrastructure. Renowned virologist Prof. George Boateng Kyei delivered a thought-provoking keynote lecture on “HIV Cure Research: State of the Science and the Need to Include African Patients and Scientists.” His address underscored Africa’s essential role in global HIV cure research and highlighted the pressing need to integrate African populations into clinical studies. Other distinguished speakers, including Prof. Marietjie Venter, Prof. Abdusalami Nasidi, and Prof. Sunday Aremu Omilabu, led engaging plenary sessions on epidemic preparedness, viral evolution, and public health strategies. A critical roundtable discussion on Monkeypox (Mpox) preparedness brought to light the necessity of a continental response strategy to combat viral threats.
Pioneering Research and Young Scientist Recognition
With over 150 oral and poster presentations, the conference was a testament to Africa’s growing scientific capacity. Groundbreaking studies on diagnostic virology, virus epidemiology, and innovative surveillance techniques were shared. Notably, Prof. Georgina Njideka Odaibo emphasized the role of mentorship in strengthening research capacity, while Prof. Olatunji Matthew Kolawole explored wastewater surveillance as a tool for pandemic preparedness.
The conference also celebrated young scientists through the Oral and Poster Presentation Awards, recognizing exceptional contributions by emerging researchers. Among the winners were Jonathan Klutse, Waleola Rachael Odususi, and Nancy Enimil, who were honored for their outstanding oral presentations, while Ogudu Emmanuel Ogbonnia, Yeena Tay, and Vanessa Magnusan took home awards for their poster presentations.
Cultural Exchange and Networking
Beyond the scientific sessions, participants were treated to a networking dinner, providing opportunities for collaboration and future partnerships. A guided tour of Abuja’s cultural landmarks, including the Ladi Kwali Pottery Centre and Aso Radio Katampe Hill, added a unique touch to the conference experience, allowing attendees to appreciate Nigeria’s rich heritage.
Strengthening the African Virology Network
The AVN General Meeting, chaired by Prof. Adiku, marked a significant milestone, transitioning the interim leadership into a substantive Executive Committee to steer the network’s activities for the next two years. The confirmed Executive Committee members, including Dr. Sabastine Eugene Arthur (Cambridge-Africa Alumnus) as Organizing Secretary, reaffirmed their commitment to fostering collaborations and expanding AVN’s reach, including among French-speaking African countries.
The committee members are as follows:
• Prof. Theophilus Adiku - Chair
• Prof. Maryam Aminu – Vice Chair
• Dr. Evelyn Yayra Bonney – General Secretary
• Dr. Anna Kafintu Kwashile – Assistant General Secretary
• Dr. Sabastine Eugene Arthur – Organizing Secretary
• Prof. Kwamena W.C. Sagoe – Treasurer
• Dr. Abdelaziz Yasin – Northern Africa Regional Representative
• Dr. Gilbert Nchongboh Chofong – Central Africa Regional Representative
• Dr. Bernard Onoja – Western Africa Regional Representative
• Prof. Claude Sabeta – Southern Africa Regional Representative
• Dr. Aishatu Mohammed Aliyu – Finance Support
• Dr. Abdul-Azeez Anjorin – General Secretariat Support
AVN Executives and Esteemed Dignitaries at the AVC 2024
Looking Ahead
AVC 2024 concluded with a resounding call for Africa to take the lead in virology research, diagnostics, and pandemic preparedness. The commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and scientific excellence showcased at the conference sets a promising course for the future of African virology.
Cambridge-Africa is proud to have supported AVC 2024, reinforcing its mission to foster sustainable research partnerships and scientific leadership across the continent. Other key supporters of the conference included Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria; Bank of Industry, Nigeria; LabMart; the World Health Organization (WHO); the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Nigeria; the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC); the National Universities Commission, Nigeria; Yaliam Press Ltd, Nigeria; Allott (Nigeria) Limited; Inqaba Biotech; and the British Society for Plant Pathology (BSPP).
The venue for the next African Virology Conference will be announced soon, with great anticipation for another milestone event in advancing virology research on the continent. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue bridging the gap in global virology research and ensuring Africa remains at the forefront of medical and scientific innovation!
By Dr Sabastine Eugene Arthur, Cambridge-Africa alumnus