KidneyGenAfrica is a Pan-African partnership project dedicated to transforming the landscape of kidney disease research across the continent. The partnership’s aim is to accelerate knowledge in kidney disease genomics by fostering multi-centre collaboration, enabling large-scale genomics studies, and creating training opportunities that will empower the next generation of African scientists.
Through this initiative, over 100 early career researchers across Africa will gain access to mentorship, cutting-edge tools and trainings, opening doors to unparalleled opportunities to advance their careers in genomics. KidneyGenAfrica is paving the way for innovative discoveries that will shape the future of kidney disease research and treatment.
More than 850 million people worldwide are affected by kidney disease. This is almost double the number of people who have diabetes and 20 times more than the prevalence of cancer worldwide or people living with HIV/AIDS.
In Africa, the burden of kidney disease is rising rapidly, yet critical questions about its prevalence and causes remain unanswered due to limited data and low-quality studies. This gap highlights not just a challenge, but a powerful opportunity to transform kidney disease genomics research.
Currently, Africa represents just 1.1% of global genome-wide analysis data, leading to underrepresentation in studies and solutions. KidneyGenAfrica is committed to closing this gap by elevating African genomics research.
This partnership is led by Prof. Segun Fatumo and Prof. June Fabian.
The KidneyGenAfrica Consortium has published the most comprehensive genomic investigation of kidney function ever conducted in African populations.
