KIU and ACRN Partner to Boost Clinical Research in Africa

By Annet Nakanwagi

KIU, Western Campus - Kampala International University (KIU) Western Campus in Ishaka, Bushenyi, Uganda, welcomed the Africa Clinical Research Network (ACRN) for a site inspection visit, marking a major milestone in their collaboration on Friday, October 31, 2025.

This visit was the result of an expression of interest submitted by the Directorate of Research, Innovation, Consultancy, and Extension (DRICE) in collaboration with the KIU Teaching Hospital and Research (KIUTHR) in September 2025.

The purpose of the visit was to evaluate the KIUTHR site for inclusion in the ACRN network for clinical trial collaboration and capacity building. ACRN's mission is to establish a strong clinical research network in Africa, emphasizing quality, innovation, and digital technology.

Given that Africa accounts for 18% of the global population and 25% of the global disease burden, yet contributes less than 3% of global clinical trials, this partnership is a timely initiative to address this disparity. With diseases like sickle cell, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders prevalent in Africa, this partnership will help find innovative solutions to combat these health challenges.

During the visit, ACRN delegates Dr. Tapiwa Chifamba and Mr. Knowledge Ushamba, accompanied by Dr. Umi Omar Bunu, CEO of KIUTHR, and Prof. Patrick Maduabuchi Aja, Director RICE, KIU-WC, toured various facilities, including the KIU Teaching Hospital's laboratories, the Biomedical Sciences (BMS) laboratories, and the Institute of Biomedical Research (IBR). The discussions centred on joint initiatives, including research infrastructure development, capacity building, digital transformation, policy and community engagement, and global health trials.

This partnership will enable KIU to participate in global clinical trials, enhance its research capabilities, and contribute to Africa's growing presence in sponsored research. It demonstrates KIU's dedication to advancing clinical research and improving healthcare outcomes in Africa.

As KIU and ACRN embark on this collaboration, they are set to make a significant impact in clinical research. By working together, they will drive progress, build capacity, and improve healthcare outcomes for communities in Africa and beyond.