Co-President of the Jury for the Prix Galien Afrique and renowned virologist, Dr. John Nkengasong, has made a clarion call for Africa to reclaim control over its own health destiny. Speaking during a REMAPSEN-Galien Africa WEBINAR ahead of the 8th Galien Forum Africa and the 5th Prix Galien Afrique, scheduled for late October this year.

Dr. Nkengasong urged African nations to break free from chronic dependency on foreign aid and imported medical solutions and rather build a continent rooted in health autonomy, innovation, and scientific excellence.

“Today, 70% of our medicines are imported and less than 2% of vaccines are produced in Africa,” Dr. Nkengasong said. “This imbalance is unsustainable. Africa must move from dependency on aid to self-reliance”. But sovereignty comes at a price, and through this forum, we are ready to find out what that price is and pay it.”

Across the continent, one of the most persistent public health challenges remains the spread of communicable diseases. These infections often fuel the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) when they co-exist in individuals, creating a dangerous cycle. Yet, efforts to advance meaningful research and develop vaccines to break this cycle remain woefully limited. Too often, a handful of African scientists and researchers often seek funding, and international collaboration just to make an impact.

To address this pressing challenge, The Prix Galien Afrique, in collaboration with the Africa Media Network for the Promotion of Health and Environment (REMAPSEN), will host its 8th annual Galien Forum in Senegal from 28 to 31 October 2025. The event will reward outstanding researchers, institutions, and pharmaceutical innovators across Africa who have developed impactful health solutions introduced to the African market from biotechnology to herbal medicine and diagnostic products.

Chair of the Galien Africa Association, Professor Awa Marie Coll Seck, emphasised the relevance of the forum stating it is one that values, supports and amplifies the works of health industries striving to make shape Africa’s health future

“We’re creating space for every voice that matters,” she said. “Our Women’s Forum will bring together women researchers, community advocates, leaders, and policymakers to engage deeply with this issue. Alongside it, a Scientific Forum will unite scientists and decision-makers to exchange ideas and forge concrete solutions. This is how we move from dialogue to decisive action.”

The upcoming 8th Prix Galien Afrique Forum promises among others to be more than a gathering of scientific minds as well as a firm political statement. The Forum is setting its tone with leaders like Dr. Nkengasong and Professor Seck leading the charge to health autonomy on the continent through determination, innovation, and self-sufficiency.