Abstract

Over the past years, our involvement in projects funded by the European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) has expanded across several African countries, enabling groundbreaking work in health research. Starting with EDCTP and continuing through EDCTP2, and now EDCTP3 under Horizon Europe, we have spearheaded diverse projects aimed at combating infectious diseases and strengthening research capacity in local institutions.
Our role goes beyond project management; as administrators, we are key facilitators of capacity building in these partnerships. We provide tools, ongoing mentorship, close monitoring, and tailored training programs to empower local researchers and institutions. This support ensures that African research teams can take a lead role in driving these initiatives forward, contributing to the development of sustainable health solutions.
Throughout the various EDCTP phases, we have fostered collaborations between European and African institutions, helping to secure funding and offering technical guidance. This comprehensive administrative support has enabled the successful implementation of a wide range of projects, from clinical trials to epidemiological studies, across multiple countries in Africa. Additionally, we have played a crucial role in capacity-building initiatives, focusing on skills transfer, research infrastructure development, and promoting long-term self-sufficiency in health research.
The transition to EDCTP3 under Horizon Europe marks a new phase, with an increased focus on partnerships that strengthen governance structures, promote transparency, and enhance research coordination. Our administrative team continues to accompany partners closely, advising and providing necessary tools to ensure adherence to international standards and promote lasting impact.
By integrating hands-on capacity building with strong administrative oversight, our work has significantly contributed to the growth of sustainable research networks across Africa. As we look to the future, we remain committed to fostering these partnerships and ensuring that local research teams are equipped to address the region’s most pressing health challenges.