Given the high burden of malaria in Africa, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, research scientists from the region are collaborating with global counterparts to explore genetic solutions to combat malaria transmission both locally and globally.

Ghana has expressed interest in exploring gene drive technology, a genetic engineering technique that alters genes to defy the typical rules of inheritance.

 This technology significantly increases the chances that specific genes will be passed on to the next generation, enabling these genes to spread rapidly through a population and potentially override natural selection.

This interest was revealed at the Second Global Genetic Biocontrol Congress in Accra in partnership with the National Biosafety Authority, Ghana. 

It brought together scientists, researchers, and stakeholders from 24 institutions across 15 countries and was held under the theme: “Harnessing Genetic Biocontrol Potential Solutions in Changing Climate.”

In a statement, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Ghana’s Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, emphasized malaria as a “serious threat” and underscored its significant economic impact on Africa, where millions are spent annually on malaria control. 

He reassured that Ghana is committed to adopting emerging technologies to support disease prevention, including those affecting crops, as long as they do not pose a risk to human survival.

“Opposition to GMOs often stems from cultural and social concerns. However, the critical question is whether we should move forward with such technologies,” Dr. Muhammed stated.

He added “As long as they do not endanger our survival or cause adverse health effects, we are not opposed to them.”

Gene drive technology offers a promising new strategy to combat malaria by creating a “vaccine” for mosquitoes that prevents them from transmitting the disease. 

Scientists genetically modify mosquitoes to make them incapable of spreading malaria, and these modified mosquitoes are then released into the wild, where they breed with others. 

Over time, the genetic modification spreads through the population, and more mosquitoes become incapable of transmitting the disease.

Professor Fredros Okumu, a Public Health Researcher and Mosquito Biologist, emphasized the need for innovative, high-success solutions to fight malaria in Africa. 

He pointed out that current malaria vaccines, which require multiple doses, highlight the necessity for more effective tools. “We need new tools,” he said, “and gene drive technology could be the solution.”

Dr. Willy Tonui, Founder and Executive Director of the African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium, explained that the Congress served as a platform for collaboration among researchers, developers, and practitioners. He stressed that the event would foster cooperation and drive new scientific advancements, particularly with technologies like gene drive and Wolbachia-induced cytoplasmic incompatibility.

Dr. Misheck Mulumba, the Congress President, advocated for the One Health approach to disease control, arguing that it offers a more affordable and efficient strategy for addressing health challenges.

By Benedicta Gyimaah Folley