12th EDCTP Forum: Rwanda Hosts Premier Global Health Research Partnership Conference

The 12th EDCTP Forum is currently underway in Kigali, Rwanda, bringing together over 1,200 global health researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world. Running from June 15-20, 2025 at the prestigious Kigali Convention Centre, this biennial conference represents one of the most significant gatherings in African health research and clinical trials.

Rwanda at the Heart of Global Health Innovation

As the Foresight Institute of Research and Translation (FIRAT), we are proud to witness Rwanda's emergence as a leading hub for global health research partnerships. The Ministry of Health of Rwanda and the Rwanda Biomedical Centre are hosting this landmark event, jointly organized with Global Health EDCTP3 and the EDCTP Association.

This year's theme, "Better Health through Global Research Partnerships," perfectly aligns with FIRAT's commitment to research promotion and our mission to advance translational research across Africa.

What Makes This Forum Special

The EDCTP (European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership) Forum has evolved over two decades to become the most prominent cross-disease and inter-disciplinary conference focusing on clinical research and capacity strengthening in sub-Saharan Africa.

Key highlights of the 2025 Forum include:

• Plenary sessions featuring leading international scientists and policymakers
• Parallel thematic sessions addressing poverty-related and neglected infectious diseases
• Scientific symposia and 'meet the expert' sessions
• E-poster exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge research
• Networking opportunities fostering global collaboration
• Workshops and site visits to research centers in Kigali

Building African Research Leadership

Dr. Michael Makanga, Executive Director of Global Health EDCTP3, emphasized the forum's significance: "This is an unparalleled opportunity that draws together key stakeholders in Kigali to foster research collaboration, drive innovation and showcase the impact of the EDCTP programmes, while empowering African researchers to lead the field."

Research Areas in Focus

The forum addresses critical health challenges including:

• Infectious disease research and clinical trials
• Capacity development for African research institutions
• Regulatory harmonization across African countries
• Innovation in health technologies and interventions
• Community engagement in research processes
• Ethical considerations in global health partnerships

FIRAT's Commitment to Research Excellence

At FIRAT, we recognize the transformative potential of events like the 12th EDCTP Forum. As Rwanda positions itself as a regional leader in health research, we remain committed to:

• Supporting local researchers in accessing international partnerships
• Promoting evidence-based policy development
• Facilitating knowledge translation from research to practice
• Building sustainable research capacity across institutions

Join the Global Health Movement

The 12th EDCTP Forum represents more than a conference—it's a catalyst for transforming global health through genuine partnerships that put African leadership at the center.