A new research collaboration has been launched to strengthen Africa’s ability to respond to future health crises, addressing the continent’s vulnerability to infectious disease outbreaks. The Africa Pandemic Sciences Collaborative, a multi-year initiative, brings together the Science for Africa (SFA) Foundation, the Pandemic Sciences Institute (PSI) at the University of Oxford, and the Mastercard Foundation to foster African-led research and build a sustainable health research ecosystem.
This initiative comes at a critical time, as Africa continues to face growing health challenges. In 2025 alone, the continent recorded more than 50 active outbreaks and 80 ongoing public health emergencies, driven by factors such as climate change, biodiversity loss, migration, and socio-economic instability. Despite accounting for nearly 17% of the global population, Africa contributes only 1–2% of global health research publications, a gap largely attributed to limited funding and infrastructure. This lack of investment has made it difficult for the continent to develop homegrown solutions to health threats.
Recognizing the urgent need for change, the Africa Pandemic Sciences Collaborative aims to empower young African scientists, increase research outputs, and enhance local expertise in pandemic response. Professor Tom Kariuki, CEO of the SFA Foundation, emphasized the importance of long-term investment in African research, stating, “Africa has immense talent and innovation potential in global health security. However, sustained investment and mentorship are needed to transform ideas into practical solutions.”
A key feature of the project is the creation of Epidemic and Pandemic Sciences Innovation and Leadership Networks (EPSILONs), which will be led by distinguished African scientists. These networks will focus on tackling specific infectious disease threats through research and innovation. The initiative will also connect universities, research institutions, and policymakers to ensure that scientific discoveries are translated into real-world applications that benefit African communities.
The Mastercard Foundation, which has been actively supporting African education and employment opportunities, sees this collaboration as part of its broader mission. Peter Materu, Chief Program Officer at the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted the significance of investing in African-led research, stating, “These investments will expand scientific leadership and equip the continent with the tools needed to manage future health threats.”
Additionally, the Pandemic Sciences Institute at the University of Oxford, which played a crucial role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines, will provide technical expertise to support the initiative. Professor Sir Peter Horby, Director of the Institute, underscored the importance of African leadership in pandemic preparedness, noting, “COVID-19 exposed deep inequities in global healthcare and science. African scientists must lead the development of solutions that directly impact their communities.”
The launch of the Africa Pandemic Sciences Collaborative signals a major shift from reliance on external aid to the development of Africa’s scientific autonomy. By focusing on long-term career development for researchers and fostering collaboration among institutions, the initiative aims to create sustainable health solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges. As the number of health emergencies on the continent continues to rise, this partnership could transform Africa’s pandemic preparedness, ensuring that future outbreaks are met with scientific expertise from within Africa rather than relying solely on external support.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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