The University of Abuja, in collaboration with international institutions, has successfully secured over £5 million to spearhead pioneering research on sickle cell disease across sub-Saharan Africa. This significant funding aims to advance the research and management of sickle cell disease, which remains a major public health challenge in the region.
The announcement was made by Professor Obiageli Nnodu, Director of the Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Research and Training (NCESTRA) at UniAbuja, during a workshop titled Patient-Centered Sickle Cell Disease Management in Sub-Saharan Africa (PACTS). This event, which took place at the University, was organised by CESTRA in collaboration with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) and featured key discussions on strengthening institutional research capacities.
“The initiative is focused on enhancing the capacity of African institutions to conduct world-class sickle cell research,” Prof. Nnodu explained. She further emphasised the importance of building research capacities through proper training and infrastructure to enable effective monitoring, management, and implementation of research findings.
Capacity Building and Collaborative Efforts Across Africa and Beyond
The £5 million grant will not only strengthen the research capabilities of African institutions but also foster global collaboration. The project is a joint effort involving institutions in Ghana, Zambia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, including Kwame Nkrumah University of Health and Allied Science and Technology, University of Zambia Teaching Hospital, and the renowned Imperial College London.
Prof. Nnodu, who also serves as Co-Principal Investigator on PACTS, highlighted the critical role of international collaboration in achieving research success. She noted that the partnership with institutions in these countries is vital for comprehensive research that will benefit the entire African continent.
A Transformative Approach to Sickle Cell Disease Management
The initiative is focused on a patient-centered approach to sickle cell management, a first in research methodology within the region. Prof. Imelda Bates, Principal Investigator for PACTS, explained that this patient-focused model aims to address the specific challenges faced by families affected by sickle cell disease.
“This approach puts patients at the centre of the research process, where we discuss their challenges directly and try to find solutions to their problems,” Prof. Bates stated. She pointed out that Nigeria, with its largest population of sickle cell patients globally, is the ideal setting for this research.
Key Findings and Challenges in Managing Sickle Cell Disease
The preliminary findings of the project have highlighted several barriers faced by families affected by sickle cell disease. According to Prof. Bates, one of the major obstacles is the inability of many families to afford healthy food and make lifestyle changes essential for managing the disease.
“Many of these families are among the poorest in society, as the health costs associated with sickle cell disease are immense,” she said. The financial strain often forces families to prioritize other needs, like transport and education, over the healthcare requirements of their loved ones.
Additionally, many patients resort to herbal remedies instead of seeking professional medical treatment, which exacerbates their condition. Prof. Bates stressed that the project aims to understand these issues and explore feasible solutions, including improving access to necessary medical treatments such as blood transfusions and reducing wait times at health facilities.
University of Abuja’s Commitment to Research Excellence
In her address at the workshop, Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Patricia Lar, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to tackling sickle cell disease through world-class research. Represented by Prof. Rhoda Mundi, Senior Special Assistant on Academic Matters, she stated, “This workshop represents a key moment in our shared commitment to advancing research excellence, particularly in the fight against sickle cell disease, which is a public health challenge in both Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.”
The workshop also marks a crucial milestone in the University’s goal to enhance research excellence and build capacity to manage the burden of sickle cell disease in the region.
Moving Forward: Collaborative Research for a Healthier Future
The partnership between UniAbuja, international research institutions, and local stakeholders sets a strong foundation for the future of sickle cell disease management in Africa. With continued support from the £5 million grant, the PACTS project is poised to bring transformative changes to healthcare delivery and research, ultimately improving the lives of millions affected by sickle cell disease.
