Rwanda is preparing to host Genomic Frontiers: Rwanda 2025, a symposium set to take place from October 15 to 17, bringing together global and African leaders in science, research, public health, and innovation in genomics. ALSO READ: Harnessing the genomics revolution The three-day gathering will explore how genomics, the study of an organism’s set of DNA, is transforming healthcare across Africa, affecting everything from community pharmacy services to national health systems. According to Jean-Baptiste Mazarati, Board Chair of Goodlife Access, the organization behind the event, the symposium will convene researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across Africa and beyond to examine how genomics can power the next generation of healthcare delivery. ALSO READ: How Rwanda’s new Rwf7tn strategy plans to improve healthcare According to Mazarati, Rwanda has already earned a reputation for turning ambitious ideas into reality. “Rwanda’s track record proves that innovation doesn’t just happen in faraway places; it can happen here, with the vision to better serve Rwandans in every clinic, every community pharmacy, and every patient encounter,” Mazarati said. “The country pioneered the world’s first national drone delivery network for medical supplies, ensuring timely access to essential medicines even in remote areas. It has built a health system grounded in data-driven decisions and equity, making sure that care reaches every citizen regardless of location or economic status,” he said. Building on this foundation, Rwanda is now integrating genomic medicine into everyday healthcare, enabling doctors and pharmacists to use genetic insights to provide more personalized and effective treatments. He explained that the symposium will showcase how genomics can improve disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment across the continent. “Attendees will hear from scientists, clinicians, and patients, sharing experiences and insights that reflect the practical and transformative power of genetic research,” he noted. Some 120 participants are expected to attend the event, with speakers including government officials, Rwandan scientists and researchers as well as experts from all over the world. In addition to exploring cutting-edge technologies and research methods, the event will highlight the importance of developing local capacity and expertise so that Rwandans can lead and sustain advances in genomic medicine. ALSO READ: Drug maker Labophar in new drive to boost Rwanda’s access to essential medicines According to Dr Annette Uwineza, a senior lecturer in clinical biology at the University of Rwanda, neurodevelopmental disorders in most African children include autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, and microcephaly and genomics can be useful in treating them. “Using advanced genomic techniques can identify the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to these conditions,” she said. In her recent research on genomic and environmental factors of neurodevelopmental disorders in sub-Saharan African children, Uwineza highlighted that by providing families with critical diagnostic information and guiding public health interventions, physicians can improve care and long-term planning for affected children. The researcher also seeks to develop assessment tools tailored to the Rwandan and African context, gathering relevant information on risk factors that can help shape more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Through investments in infrastructure, research networks, and human capital, Rwanda and its regional partners are creating a model for how genomics can serve public health priorities. ALSO READ: Rwanda FDA sets new price controls on medical drugs “Genomic Frontiers: Rwanda 2025 is more than a conference; it is a statement that Rwanda is at the forefront of healthcare innovation in Africa, added Mazarati. The event will also inspire new collaborations, showcase groundbreaking research, and demonstrate how science, policy, and practical implementation can come together to improve the health and lives of millions. There will be awards in recognition of outstanding research contributions in genomics.
