Africa CDC launches AGARI to strengthen genomic data sharing for disease control

ETHIOPIA—The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has unveiled a new online platform named Africa Genome Archiving for Response and Insight (AGARI).

This innovative system enables researchers across Africa to securely share essential genomic data on pathogens that pose significant public health risks on the continent.

AGARI is a collaborative initiative developed in partnership with the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) and African Union Member States.

AGARI serves as a continent-wide, secure hub where countries can upload, archive, analyze, and share genomic sequencing information.

This facilitates quicker, smarter decision-making in public health, helping to contain outbreaks more efficiently.

The platform is a response to the rapid expansion of genomic sequencing capacity in Africa: from just seven countries able to conduct basic genomic sequencing in 2019, there are now 46 countries with this capability.

This growth significantly enhances Africa’s ability to detect and respond to diseases such as Mpox, cholera, Ebola, Marburg, and antimicrobial resistance threats.

Dr. Diana Atwine, Uganda’s Permanent Secretary for Health, emphasized the power of collaboration during the launch at Africa CDC’s annual laboratory symposium.

She highlighted that AGARI allows countries to share genomic insights and learn from each other’s experiences to improve outbreak responses.

The symposium gathered scientists, policymakers, partners, and innovators from across Africa and beyond to exchange best practices and enhance cooperation.

Coordinated by the Africa Pathogen Genomics Initiative (Africa PGI) and developed by African experts over seven years, AGARI is more than just a website.

It acts as a centralized archive and analysis tool enabling real-time pathogen detection and rapid public health actions.

The platform also ensures African Union Member States retain control over their genomic data, empowering them to use it for effective disease management.

Professor Alan Christoffels, advisor to Africa CDC’s pathogen program and lead on AGARI, expressed excitement about the platform’s respect for national data sovereignty.

He noted that AGARI supports real-time collaboration in responding to disease threats impacting Africa and the world.

Genomics is critical to disease surveillance, outbreak detection, diagnostics, and advancing universal health coverage.

However, these laboratory systems face challenges such as declining external funding.

AGARI addresses these challenges by integrating public health functions to reduce duplication and optimize resources across member states.

Dr. Yenew Tebeje, Head of the Laboratory Systems Division at Africa CDC, highlighted the potential of Africa’s bioeconomy to drive innovative financing mechanisms supporting essential laboratory services despite shrinking international aid.

He stressed the importance of strong biobanking networks, data-sharing platforms, and effective negotiations on Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing.

The launch of AGARI marks a key milestone in these efforts.

ASLM CEO Mr. Nqobile Ndlovu described AGARI as a transformative platform where Africa’s data, science, and sovereignty converge to fuel the next generation of public health intelligence.

He added that AGARI embodies African ownership of its genomic future, turning shared data into collective strength through trust, collaboration, and shared purpose.