In Africa, the relentless fight against vector-borne diseases persists. In an effort to address this challenge, the Africa Integrated Vector Management (IVM) program held a side event during the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) annual conference on the 18th of September 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This engagement served as a platform to disseminate vital information regarding the ongoing horizon scanning of GBVCs technologies within the program. Additionally, it provided a unique opportunity to capture the perspectives of various experts on the subject of Genetic-Based Vector Control (GBVC) technologies. The discussion was all-encompassing, delving into the realms of risks, threats, uncertainties, challenges, opportunities, and the identification of key stakeholders who should be actively involved in confronting the issue of Genetically-based vector control technologies as well as vector-borne diseases.

Vector-borne diseases are formidable adversaries, responsible for over 17% of all communicable diseases worldwide and causing more than 700,000 annual deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).  Africa bears a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality due to these diseases. However, there is hope on the horizon in the form of GBVC technologies. GBVC technologies represents a groundbreaking approach to combat diseases like malaria by utilizing genetic modification techniques to reduce the transmission.

The African continent, which bears the heaviest toll of vector-borne diseases, could greatly benefit from the GBVC technologies’ implementation. In response, the African Union (AU), through AUDA-NEPAD, has initiated a horizon scanning effort to gather comprehensive information on the potential impacts, both positive and negative, of GBVC technologies. This information will lay the foundation for informed policy and decision-making processes.

During the engagement, experts proposed broadening the definition of GBVC technologies to encompass various constructs, including low and high threshold Gene Drives. Regulatory systems for efficient and safe GBVC product assessment were highlighted as essential for expanding its impact. Additionally, legislative support emerged as a pivotal factor, with an examination of the continent’s legislative landscape revealing the need to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and policymakers. The emerging legislative landscape surrounding GBVC technologies underscore the importance of effective communication between scientists and policymakers. Awareness, sensitization and capacity-building are essential tools to bridge this gap and ensure informed decision-making processes.

Insights on the financial strategies needed for African government to effectively harness GBVC technologies were shared. These insights emphasized the importance of prioritization, field testing and assessing return on investments. Such practices are essential to ensure efficient resource allocation and to make GBVC technologies a sustainable solution in the fight against vector-borne diseases.

Great emphasis was also placed on the importance of understanding the key contrast between self-sustaining and self-limiting gene drives. Self-sustaining gene drives, due to their cost-effectiveness, are seen as the cornerstone for achieving a lasting impact on limiting disease-carrying vectors. To turn this idea into a reality, experts urged the exploration of creative money models and the creation of partnerships between public and private sectors for long-term financial backing. Thus, highlights the necessity for a complete financial plan that can promote the widespread use of GBVC technologies across Africa.

Furthermore, insistence on the significance of GBVC tools that not only bring about positive change in African lives but are also user-friendly was made. This highlighted the vital role of horizon scanning within the context of GBVC technologies, which aids in the early identification of social challenges, threats, and opportunities. This, in turn, enables a more comprehensive approach to vector control.

A pragmatic approach was therefore proposed, one that blends social science principles with stakeholder engagement. As such, involving stakeholders from the outset minimizes misunderstandings, especially concerning scientific findings. It also ensures that the technology aligns with the needs and aspirations of stakeholders, making GBVC technologies more effective and acceptable.

This collective progress reflects the multifaceted approach needed to unlock the potential of GBVC technologies in Africa. While financial mechanisms and sustainable financing are crucial for practical application, ethical, legal, and social considerations are essential for successful implementation.

In conclusion, as Africa collectively advances in the battle against vector-borne diseases, the collaboration of and from diverse public and private actors as well as stakeholders is a crucial step forward. In the midst of Africa’s unwavering fight against vector-borne diseases, GBVC technologies stand as a ray of optimism.

To contribute to the vital endeavor and share your valuable insights, please participate in our Horizon Scanning survey by following this link: https://shorturl.at/flGNP. Your input is pivotal in shaping the future of GBVC in Africa.

For more information on the horizon scanning, please contact:

Barbara Glover: barbarag@nepad.org or Christoper Okonji: christophero@nepad.org  

For communication inquiries:

Nqobile Zwane, Public Relations Officer, nqobilez@nepad.org