In the face of multiplying epidemics across the continent (Dengue, Mpox, Yellow Fever, etc.), Mali is hosting, on April 7, 2026, the launch of the ambitious project « Strengthening Clinical and Genomic Research Capacities on Arboviruses » (SC-CRA). This strategic initiative aims to place African expertise at the heart of regional health security VIDEO.
Professor Diakité, Rector of the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB): « The WAC-CREP embodies this vision, which brings together scientists, clinicians, and institutions from several West African countries—namely Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, and Sierra Leone. It aims to strengthen our testing capacities for pathogens with epidemic potential and to create a competent network and resources capable of responding quickly and effectively to health emergencies. »
Representative of the Minister of Health and Social Development, Dr. Abdelaye Kéita: « The challenge is to detect and anticipate epidemics by developing high-performance diagnostic and management platforms. This requires improving data management, training a new generation of health professionals, and stimulating national and international collaboration. Beyond technology, this project is built on the vision of a strong, connected, and resilient scientific community capable of producing high-quality knowledge and effectively guiding public health decisions. »
Professor Seydou Doumbia, Director of the UCRC and the SC-GRA Project: « The tools developed with our partners detect more than 200 types of viruses to guide practitioners toward better diagnoses and direct future treatments. » VIDEO IN BAMBARA
Mr. Kantao Idrissa, Representative of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research: « On behalf of the Minister, we warmly thank the Science for Africa Foundation for its constant commitment, the University of Oxford for its high-level technical expertise, and the Mastercard Foundation for its decisive support in the emergence of a new generation of African scientists. »
Key note:
Arbovirus: A virus transmitted through the bite of mosquitoes (such as Aedes or Culex) or ticks. These viruses are responsible for yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.
WACCREP Communication Office
