The two-day conference, organised in collaboration with CLIMB-BIG-DATA (Cloud Infrastructure for Big Data Microbial Bioinformatics) and the ARTICnetwork, focused on the theme “Building Sustainable Digital Infrastructure for Pathogen Genomics,” bringing together experts and researchers from across Africa and beyond.
“It is essential that we tackle the challenges we face and establish ourselves as a regional centre of excellence,” noted Dr Sesay. “Rather than reinventing the wheel, our focus should be on leveraging access to resources and expertise and strengthening collaboration.”
Among the WANETAM-supported participants was Mamadú Aliu Jaló, a bioinformatician from Jean Piaget University, Cape Verde. For Jaló, the conference provided him with valuable practical knowledge that would directly impact his work analysing large volumes of data.
“I left the Conference very satisfied with the much broader idea about Cloud Computing, which I had only heard about before,” Jaló shared. “Now, with the adequate knowledge acquired about Cloud Computing, my work analysing large volumes of data will be much easier,” he added.
Another participant supported by WANETAM was Binta Faye, a Scientific Officer under the Genomics Platform at MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM. Faye highlighted both the technical skills gained and the professional networking opportunities the conference afforded.
“It was fulfilling to go through a two-day training on Cloud data analysis using CLIMB, an integral tool in the field of genomic data analysis,” Faye remarked. “I had the privilege to learn from amazing bioinformaticians, public health experts, made life-long connections with scientists of diverse backgrounds who shared research experiences that would positively impact our work.”
The conference addressed critical aspects of cloud computing for pathogen genomics, providing participants with hands-on experience using cutting-edge tools like CLIMB. These skills are particularly relevant in the context of infectious disease research, surveillance, and response, areas that align closely with WANETAM’s focus on tuberculosis, AIDS, and malaria.
By supporting researchers and technical staff to attend specialised training in cloud computing and bioinformatics, WANETAM is helping to build crucial capacity for genomic data analysis across West Africa. This investment recognises the growing importance of big data and computational approaches in modern infectious disease research and surveillance systems.
The knowledge and connections gained by the participants will strengthen the region’s ability to leverage cloud computing resources for pathogen genomics, ultimately contributing to more effective disease control strategies and health system responses.
WANETAM’s support for participation in the Cloud Computing in Africa Conference exemplifies its commitment to building sustainable research capacity in West Africa through strategic investments in professional development and technical training. As digital infrastructure becomes increasingly central to public health research and response, such investments will play a vital role in strengthening the region’s ability to address its most pressing health challenges.
