KAMPALA: The MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, in collaboration with Makerere University, is hosting the 15th African Society of Human Genetics (AfSHG) and the 1st Uganda Society for Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (USHGB) conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
“The key to advancing genomics research in Africa lies in building strong, sustainable collaborations,” said Professor Moffat Nyirenda, Director of the MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit.
“This conference provides a unique opportunity for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to come together and drive innovation through collective expertise and shared resources.” He added.
With genomics still an underexplored field in Africa, this conference seeks to close the research gap by fostering strategic partnerships and the adoption of verifiable data-driven approaches to addressing health challenges. The event will feature high-impact discussions on: genomic insights into rare and common diseases to improve early diagnosis and precision medicine; ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI) of genomics research, emphasizing equitable data governance and African-led policies; AI and data science in genomics, unlocking new possibilities in disease prediction and drug development, and; strengthening research networks to accelerate discoveries tailored to African populations.
The conference will mark the inauguration of the Uganda Society for Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (USHGB). Comprised of early to mid-career genomics research experts, this initiative will work towards strengthening local expertise through mentorship and fostering regional collaborations in genomic and bioinformatics research.
A new project ‘KidneyGenAfrica’ will also be launched during the convening, a cross African partnership aimed at delivering research and training excellence in genomics of kidney disease on the continent by bringing together academic and research institutions from Africa, Europe and the United States. KidneyGenAfrica is well-positioned to address key capacity gaps in Africa by building a critical mass of expertise and resources for large-scale genomic analysis including contributing to the improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of kidney disease. The MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s General Population Cohort in southwestern Uganda—home to over 35 years of rich linked data and a diverse study population spanning multiple tribes and nationalities—will serve as a key resource in uncovering the genetic factors behind kidney disease in African populations.
“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. Segun Fatumo, Director of KidneyGenAfrica and Chair of the Conference.
In addition to scientific discussions, the conference will acknowledge exceptional contributions in the field of genomics research on the African continent and further facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration through interactive poster presentations, networking sessions, and affiliate society meetings.
About the AfSHG Conference
The AfSHG was founded in 2003 with the aim of equipping the African scientific community and policy-makers with information and practical knowledge to contribute to the field of genomics research and to attract global attention to the efforts of African scientists.
About the organisers
The Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Institute/ London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM) is an internationally recognized center of excellence for research and training. Its mission is to conduct high-quality research that adds knowledge and leads to improved control of infectious and non-communicable diseases in Uganda, Africa and globally, through translation of scientific findings into policy and practice, and rigorous research capacity building.
Makerere University is Uganda’s largest and oldest institution of higher learning, established in 1922. It is a leading center of academic excellence, research, and innovation in Africa and beyond. Committed to advancing knowledge, the university fosters transformative teaching, cutting-edge research, and impactful community engagement. Makerere drives societal transformation and development by generating knowledge and delivering innovative, responsive solutions to national and global challenges.
