Dedicated to
African-led research and
data-driven solutions
Inspiring a new era of clinical research
About ACRN
Established to address Africa’s growing healthcare challenges, we aim to position Africa as a leader in global clinical research through collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
Our Mission
- Connecting researchers to opportunities
- Implementing high-quality trials and research
- Harnessing a robust digital infrastructure
At ACRN, we believe in the power of transparency.
We foster a greater understanding of clinical research within medical and public spheres through community engagement. The end goal is to increase stakeholder trust, enhancing the credibility and transparency of our research.
The ACRN Vision
Our History
Mutala’s journey began with a Phase I COVID-19 vaccine study in partnership with the Serum Institute of India. Despite the trial’s cancellation due to emerging variants, Dr. Makadzange swiftly adapted, converting part of her home into a clinic and transforming a peanut butter factory into a laboratory to continue research.
Fortunately, a grant from the Gates Foundation, in collaboration with Wits University and Columbia University, enabled the Mutala team to conduct a timely study on vaccine confidence during the rise of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.
Mutala has grown remarkably over the last three years.
Imagine what we can achieve together over the next few years.
Over the past three years, Mutala has achieved significant milestones:
Established Robust Community Engagement
Strengthened trust and participation in research by integrating rigorous social-behavioural methods, creating evidence-based engagement models.
Attracted Global & Local Research
Secured both industry-sponsored and investigator-initiated studies, upholding international standards while championing innovative, locally led research.
Built a Dynamic Patient Database
Developed a registry of volunteers eager to participate in future clinical studies, streamlining enrollment and data collection.
Led Targeted COVID-19 Research
Undertook a CEPI-funded vaccine effectiveness study focused on inactivated vaccines-key to local immunization effort.
Explored HPV Vaccine Uptake
Investigated motivations, barriers, and attitudes toward vaccination through in-depth qualitative research with adolescent–parent pairs (Merck Investigator Studies Program).
Pioneered HIV Vaccine Trials
Partnered with the Gates Foundation’s HIV Vaccine Group, positioning Mutala as the clinical lead for the first-in-human HIV vaccine trial (GRADHIVNE-1).
Our Network
Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, we collaborate with African institutions to uphold the highest standards of scientific excellence while fostering long-term sustainability. By embedding resilience and self-sufficiency into research ecosystems, we enable our partners to drive medical innovation that serves communities across the continent.
Advancing Clinical Research in Africa Through Our Network Partners and Affiliates
The Africa Clinical Research Network (ACRN) Foundation collaborates with institutions across the continent to build a world-class research ecosystem. Our partners – including public and private universities, research centers, clinical trial sites, and healthcare institutions – are united by a shared commitment to conducting high-quality, ethical, and impactful clinical research. Together, we strive to meet global standards while addressing Africa’s unique healthcare challenges.