EDCTP has established itself as a key contributor to the Africa–EU Strategic Partnership and a recognised global player funding clinical research and product-focused implementation research, as well as associated capacity development. It is now a focal point for European research activities, promoting coordinated action to maximise impact on poverty-related infectious diseases.

We enhance the capacity of sub-Saharan Africa countries to conduct clinical studies, by investing in new research infrastructure and the development of the next generation of African researchers. EDCTP also strengthens the ethical review, regulatory and legal frameworks for clinical research in sub-Saharan Africa.

EDCTP operates as a true ‘partnership of equals’ between North and South. African partners are involved at all levels, including priority setting, strategy development, implementation of plans, and leadership. This contributes to a sense of co-ownership and political commitment that increase the likelihood that research results influence policy and practice.

The EDCTP programme encompasses populations often excluded from clinical studies but with major unmet medical needs – including pregnant women, newborns, children, adolescents, other vulnerable populations, and people with co-infections and comorbidities.

EDCTP covers product–focused implementation research on delivery and uptake of medical research. This makes our work even more relevant to health services in sub-Saharan Africa countries. It also provides new opportunities for partnerships with development organisations working on health systems and optimisation of health services.

We have a strong practical focus on clinical challenges and policy-relevant questions, ensuring results of funded research feed directly into national and international policymaking and practice.

We are committed to working with like-minded partners, to promote wider use of the opportunities established for collaborative research. We have set up multiple highly effective partnerships with global public and private sector organisations.