Towards an Appropriate African Framework for Public Engagement with Human Genome Editing (360G-Wellcome-220559_Z_20_Z)

The novel biotechnology of the CRISPR-Cas9 method has certainly precipitated unprecedented interest as well as concern with regard to the scientific reality of human genome editing. This excitement and anxiety become even more acute in resource-limited settings where there is limited awareness and engagement between the experts in human genomics and gene editing and the public. Hence, there is an urgent need for effective public engagement. The purpose of my fellowship is to get vital mentorship in public engagement with human genome editing. My aim is to benchmark with best practice at NHGRI and work towards developing an appropriate African framework for public engagement with human genome editing. My visit will also be a unique opportunity for me to network and cultivate opportunities for north-south collaborative partnerships. Besides, the acquired knowledge and skills will greatly contribute towards Africa’s capacity-building. I plan to effectively disseminate my work, including at least one publication in a reputable peer-reviewed journal. Thus my trip is in line with GFBR’s goal of bringing together key stakeholders from developing and developed countries in addressing frontier bioethical concerns in research. It is also relevant to GFBR’s goals of capacity-building and of fostering effective collaborative partnerships.