Eight African nations, including a, are leading the charge in HIV vaccine development across the continent. This initiative, funded by USAID and organized by the BRILLIANT consortium, brings together participants from these countries under the South African Medical Research Council, with the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) as the sole representative from West Africa. The consortium, driven by African women scientists, aims to unite researchers to expedite the development of an effective HIV vaccine tailored to the continent’s needs.
Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, executive director of IHVN’s International Research Center of Excellence, emphasized the importance of quickly evaluating “African” immunogens through discovery and pre-clinical assessments using mRNA technology developed locally. This partnership highlights Africa’s potential for innovation and scientific progress in addressing global health challenges. By collaborating with nations such as South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, the initiative seeks to leverage the continent’s vast expertise and resources to combat the HIV epidemic from within, with leadership from Professor Glenda Gray, president of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
