The SIB executive management team participated in a preparatory conference for the launch of the African Bioinformatics Institute (ABI), held recently in Cape Town, South Africa. SIB’s experience in setting up bioinformatics infrastructures in Switzerland and internationally – and our effectiveness in supporting cutting-edge research and facilitating public decision-making – were highlighted during the discussions.
ABI aims to harness biological data to unlock Africa’s potential for sustainable development, improved health outcomes, and enhanced quality of life across the continent. Its foundation was laid at the preparatory event, which brought together over 200 stakeholders from across Africa, as well as key representatives from European and international bioinformatics initiatives.
SIB’s governance and operational activity model were cited as major sources of inspiration for ABI’s establishment. Thanks to fantastic engagement by all stakeholders, the discussions resulted in the creation of an interim governance organization to launch the new institute. As ABI embarks on its journey – with the University of Cape Town serving as the interim ABI Hub and an Interim Council and Task Force in place, and with funding from the Wellcome Trust and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative – African bioinformatics is set to experience a transformative boost, strengthening collaboration across the continent and beyond.
SIB is honoured to have contributed to the creation of the African Bioinformatics Institute and congratulates everyone involved in this significant milestone for Africa and global collaboration.
