In a major milestone for health research in Africa, the African Population Cohorts Consortium (APCC) has been formally launched. This pioneering initiative unites over 40 large-scale population cohorts from 16 countries to mobilise African-led longitudinal data for science, policy, and public health impact. With the support of a £4 million investment from Wellcome, APCC is establishing a permanent secretariat, hosted by the Science for Africa Foundation, to drive its mission forward.
APCC’s launch marks a shift in the global research landscape, aiming to place African researchers and data at the forefront. Its three-pronged agenda focuses on ethics, data harmonisation and translational impact. Strategic priorities include understanding health across the lifespan, addressing climate-related health impacts, and tracking progress towards universal health coverage.
“Despite their immense potential, large population cohorts have historically been underutilised in Africa. Through APCC, we are shaping a future where African-led longitudinal data not only advances scientific discovery but also enhances the health and well-being of communities across the continent,” said Dr Evelyn Gitau, Chief Scientific Officet at the SFA Foundation. Dr Kobus Herbst and Dr Dorcas Kamuya co-chair the Interim Steering Committee, guiding this pan-African effort.
With this initiative, APCC aligns with the Health Research and Innovation Strategy for Africa and is poised to become a cornerstone in Africa’s data-driven transformation.