Professor Kelly Chibale, a leading figure in drug discovery and development, has highlighted the untapped potential of Africa's genetic diversity in medical research. He argues that the continent's unique genetic makeup is crucial for developing effective medicines that cater to its diverse populations.
Despite housing 18% of the world's population and bearing 20% of the global disease burden, Africa only accounts for a meager 3% of clinical trials, primarily concentrated in South Africa and Egypt. Chibale advocates for conducting more trials across the continent to ensure that drugs are effective for its diverse populations. He emphasizes that genetic variations can significantly influence drug metabolism, making it essential to test medications within the communities they are intended to serve.
Chibale, a professor of organic chemistry and founder of the pioneering Holistic Drug Discovery and Development Centre at the University of Cape Town, is a strong advocate for harnessing Africa's genetic diversity to advance drug research and development. His vision is to ensure that the continent's unique genetic makeup is leveraged to create effective and accessible medicines for its people.
He highlights the need for increased participation from African communities in clinical research, addressing historical mistrust stemming from past medical abuses. Chibale believes that local voices are essential in encouraging participation, as trust is built through familiar and credible figures. He also points out the importance of African leadership in addressing health issues that predominantly affect the continent, rather than relying on innovations developed in the global north.
Chibale calls for improved public health research infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to facilitate clinical trials in Africa. He stresses the economic and health benefits of tailoring drugs to local populations, which can create jobs and enhance healthcare systems. Furthermore, he advocates for African institutions to actively engage in partnerships, emphasizing that collaboration should not solely focus on financial contributions but also on creating conducive environments for research and business.
Reflecting on his personal journey from rural Zambia to becoming a leading scientist, Chibale underscores the importance of education and opportunity in combating poverty. He aims to showcase Africa's scientific achievements, countering the narrative of "afro-pessimism" and demonstrating that innovation is indeed possible on the continent. His work at the H3D research center exemplifies this potential, as it has successfully advanced drug candidates through clinical trials, reinforcing the idea that Africa can be a hub for scientific innovation.
Chibale's journey began in the rural heart of Zambia, a staggering 10-hour trek from the nearest bus stop. Tragically, he lost his father when he was just two months old, leading to a childhood marked by constant movement as his mother sought work in various townships. In the cramped space he shared with his brother, he would often study late into the night, illuminated by a makeshift paraffin lamp.
Throughout his youth, he battled malaria on several occasions. “Each time, I would visit the clinic for treatment and recover. Without proper care, malaria can be deadly. Just two or three days without treatment, and it could be over. Yet, I often took this for granted.
It wasn't until later in life that I came to understand two crucial points about the malaria medication I received in my village. First, significant investments—millions of dollars—were made in the research and development of that medicine. Second, there were individuals who volunteered for clinical trials, paving the way for my treatment.”
Chibale emphasizes the importance of new initiatives like the Africa CDC and the African Medicines Agency, which aim to tackle one of the major hurdles for clinical trials in Africa: the absence of unified regulatory frameworks that could foster a substantial market, similar to that of the EU.
He asserts that it is the responsibility of scientists to advocate for the economic value of research. H3D has successfully attracted foreign investments from pharmaceutical companies and organizations like the Gates Foundation and Medicines for Malaria Venture. The organization has expanded from a mere five employees to a robust team of 75, the majority of whom hold PhDs.
“If we didn’t have this opportunity, many of these talented individuals would be in the UK, Europe, or the US,” he notes. “People often relocate in search of better prospects, but if we can cultivate those opportunities locally, they will choose to stay.”
Chibale pursued his studies in chemistry in Zambia before earning a scholarship to continue his education at Cambridge University in the UK.
Source: The Guardian