Establishing African genomics and bioinformatics programs through annual regional workshops

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Biodiversity Science

Background:

• Capacity building in genomics and bioinformatics in Africa faces significant barriers.
• The African BioGenome Project (AfricaBP) Open Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics addresses these challenges.
• Grassroots knowledge exchange is crucial for advancing biodiversity genomics in Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the implementation of AfricaBP's distributed regional workshops in 2023.
• To detail the training provided in molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics techniques.
• To discuss strategies for expanding the AfricaBP model and establishing a pan-African digital database.

Main Methods:

• Organized 28 regional workshops on biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics.
• Covered 11 African countries across 5 geographical regions.
• Trained 408 African scientists in practical techniques and ethical considerations.

Main Results:

• Successfully trained a significant number of African scientists in essential genomics and bioinformatics skills.
• Facilitated the exchange of knowledge and innovation in biodiversity genomics.
• Established a foundation for a collaborative, multi-country, multi-institutional approach.

Conclusions:

• The distributed regional workshop model is effective for capacity building in African genomics.
• Expansion of the AfricaBP model and creation of a digital database are key future strategies.
• Developing a critical mass of skilled scientists is essential for advancing African biodiversity and agricultural genomics.