Africa-led clinical trials reshaping the landscape of vaccine research science

In the face of numerous challenges, African researchers are pushing boundaries and developing solutions that not only serve the continent but also the world. This is evident in the ongoing advancements in HIV prevention research, where African scientists are taking the lead in groundbreaking trials.

One such initiative is the PrEPVacc trial, a first-of-its-kind model designed by African researchers. This trial combines pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with an HIV vaccine candidate, offering a unique approach to HIV prevention.

The Centre for Impact, Innovation and Capacity Building for Health Information Systems and Nutrition (CIIC-HIN), an African-led research institution established during the COVID-19 pandemic, is another testament to the continent's growing scientific prowess. As the implementation science arm of the African Knowledge Institute for Innovation & Scientific Advancement (AKIISA), the Centre works across three core pillars: research, evaluation, capacity development, and health innovation, translating evidence into action.

The search results did not provide specific information about the African researchers or institutions involved in the current Phase-1 clinical trial for an HIV vaccine candidate announced by the global non-profit research organization IAVI. However, it is clear that Africa is emerging as a hub of scientific leadership in HIV prevention research.

Clinical trials are being conducted in South Africa and Zimbabwe to test a new investigational HIV vaccine candidate called the Gorilla Adenovirus Vectored HIV Networked Epitopes Vaccine (GRAdHIVNE). The trial aims to evaluate the safety and immune response of the vaccine candidate in individuals both with and without HIV.

The HVTN 702 trial, designed and led by African researchers, delivered critical immunological data about population-specific responses, which is guiding the development of next-generation vaccine strategies globally.

The Kigali Call to Action, signed by scientists, policymakers, and activists, emphasizes the need to localize and strengthen research capability and build African ownership in HIV science. The call-to-action urges stakeholders to invest in African research infrastructure, strengthen local institutions, and embed community-led science across all levels.

Civil society voices continue to demand answers, exposing how promises of "shared responsibility" often mask persistent inequities in access and delivery. The call-to-action challenges us to examine whether current models of "global solidarity" truly serve African communities, as scientific breakthroughs mean very little if they do not reach those who need them most.

The global funding crisis, triggered by the abrupt cut in U.S. aid in early 2025, is a recurring challenge faced by African research institutions. However, the upcoming International AIDS Conference (AIDS2026) in Rio presents an opportunity to turn conversations into commitments, scale the solutions discussed in Kigali, and fund partnerships rooted in African ownership.

As the writer of this article, I, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Impact, Innovation and Capacity building for Health Information systems and Nutrition, am proud to be part of this movement. The solution to reaching Africa's most affected communities lies in genuine investment in African scientific capacity, putting more resources into African science, research institutions, and leadership. Africa CDC, a continental institution established to strengthen health security, should mainstream home-grown organizations such as AKIISA in these efforts. PACT, extending its expertise as a Contract Research organization (CRO) that is overdue in Africa, supports the conduct of clinical trials with an additional lens of supporting the community where research is conducted.

In conclusion, African researchers are leading the way in advancing solutions for HIV prevention. The Kigali Call to Action, the PrEPVacc trial, the HVTN 702 trial, and the GRAdHIVNE trial are just a few examples of the groundbreaking work being done on the continent. It is crucial that we continue to invest in African research institutions, strengthen local capabilities, and embed community-led science to ensure that these breakthroughs reach those who need them most.