Building molecular engineering capacity in Africa: Insights from SBA 5.0

La 5th International Conference on Synthetic Biology, AI and Biosecurity in Africa (SBA 5.0) took place from 7-9 October 2026 in Accra, Ghana. The conference brought together over 200 delegates and 40 speakers from 27 countries to explore how emerging biotechnologies can advance innovation and strengthen Africa’s bioeconomy. This year’s theme was “Resilient Futures: Engineering Biology, AI & Biosecurity for Africa’s Sovereign Bioeconomy”. 

I was delighted to give a presentation during the Health Innovation session, highlighting how the African Center for Excellence in Molecular Engineering (ACEME), where I work in Bamako, Mali, is working with the goal of equipping African scientists with advanced skills in genetic engineering. Strengthening Africa’s capacity in molecular engineering is essential to advancing research and innovation in the fight against vector-borne diseases. Investing in local scientific expertise can help ensure that innovations are developed and evaluated in ways that reflect Africa’s health priorities and local contexts.

During my presentation, I highlighted ACEME’s multidisciplinary approach, which brings together expertise in entomology, bioinformatics, epidemiology, scientific communication and stakeholder engagement. Our current efforts focus on building capacity in these various fields and on engaging stakeholders to establish a framework for discussion and ensure they are informed about our work. Looking ahead, we aim to expand training opportunities and strengthen collaboration with African research institutions, supporting our broader ambition to advance African-led research and the responsible development of innovative vector-control technologies.

Beyond presenting ACEME’s work, SBA 5.0 offered me the opportunity to explore developments in synthetic biology and exchange ideas with researchers and stakeholders from different fields. The discussions and connections reinforced my optimism about Africa’s scientific potential and the opportunities for greater collaboration across the continent.