This project named Africa Centre for Vector Genomic (AVecGen) will be implemented in collaboration with LSTM and MalariaGen. It aims to support CRID in building whole genome sequencing and analysis capacity for disease vectors in Cameroon, a premiere in sub-saharan Africa.
The AvecGen project is a 36-month initiative aimed at establishing state-of-the-art genomics and bioinformatics facilities at the Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID) in Cameroon. It will serve as a regional reference hub for malaria vector control research, supporting the fight against malaria through advanced genomic approaches. This project is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to the amount of $5,5 million. The project is allocated to CRID with a collaboration and support from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) in UK and Malaria Genomic Epidemiology Network (MalariaGEN). CRID’s executive director, Prof. Charles Wondji is the Principal Investigator (PI) of the AVecGen project. He will be assisted by talented scientists at CRID to deliver this programme. AVecGen will also collaborate with a global network of partners and institutions, including the Sanger Institute (malariaGEN team), LSTM, Africa CDC (Centers for Disease Control and prevention), WHO African Region (AFRO), Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA), National Malaria Control Programs (NMCPs), Institute of Global Health (former ACEGID), CDC Atlanta and US President Malaria Initiative (PMI).
Over the course of the project, CRID will strengthen its computational infrastructure, enabling more robust bioinformatics analyses and real-time data processing. Enhancements to latest sequencing platforms will facilitate the detection of major resistant loci, allowing for the functional genomics of candidate genes and genetic variants of key phenotypes such as insecticide resistance. AvecGen seeks to democratise and decentralise genomics and bioinformatics skills across Africa by intensive training of a new generation of African scientists in cutting-edge vector genomics (both wet and dry lab techniques). AvecGen will help generate genetic information on key aspects of vectors (Insecticide resistance, invasive species, vector competence, impact of new interventions, etc.) supporting the implementation of evidence-based vector control interventions in Africa.
Collaboration with implementation stakeholders (NMCPs, Africa CDC, PMI etc.) will ensure that project findings are translated into actionable insights that bolster malaria surveillance and improve public health outcomes. Let’s make history!
