This past week, I had the privilege of attending the WHO Global Clinical Trials Forum in Geneva on behalf of the African Clinical Research Network (ACRN). Sitting in a room full of people shaping the global clinical research agenda was a powerful moment. But more than anything, it reinforced why networks like ours need to be part of the conversation—not just listening but contributing, challenging, and building.
What stood out most was how aligned the discussions were with what we’ve been living and pushing for across Africa: implementation that works in real-world settings, systems that reflect local realities, and research that doesn’t just happen on the continent but is led by the continent.
There were thoughtful conversations about how to make trials more agile, inclusive, and sustainable – especially in resource-limited environments. The idea that we need to move beyond long, rigid processes and toward smarter, risk-proportionate approaches really hit home. In many ways, these are the principles we’ve already been trying to model through ACRN.
It was encouraging to hear so much focus on community engagement—not as a checkbox but as a core part of designing and delivering research. At ACRN, research grounded in relationships and trust is central to our model. That means working with communities, not just in them.
Another big topic was mentorship and the fact that it’s often the missing link in building capacity—not talent, not interest. We need to do better here, and ACRN is thinking hard about creating long-term, supportive structures that develop African clinical trial leaders.
Day 2 brought deeper dives into the innovations we need to consider: flexible trial designs, maturity frameworks for trial sites, and guidance that reflects the realities in LMICs—not just aspirations. These are conversations we’re ready for.
One example that stuck with me was the importance of bioequivalence studies. The case of metformin dosing in HIV-positive populations was raised—underscoring why we can’t rely on assumptions or imported data. Africa needs its own answers, and our own infrastructure to get them.
What was also clear is that no single institution can tackle this alone. LMICs need collaborative ecosystems that bring together regulators, researchers, funders, and communities—ecosystems that are nimble, locally led, and grounded in the practical realities of high disease burdens. These partnerships must make the most of available resources, share learning openly, and centre the needs of the populations they serve.
And that’s the real takeaway for me: the global clinical trials ecosystem is evolving, and Africa isn’t just part of the story—it’s helping write the next chapter. We’re not here to be passive participants. We’re here to lead, to innovate, and to show what’s possible when investment meets vision and collaboration.
Being at WHO headquarters, with so many brilliant minds and deep expertise in the room, was a real honour. But more than that, it was a reminder of the work ahead—and the responsibility we carry.