A groundbreaking paper from the DNAirobi workshop, published in the American Journal of Human Genetics, calls for an equitable future in DNA research in Africa. The initiative, led by Elizabeth Sawchuk and Kendra Sirak, seeks to amplify African voices and build vital research infrastructure on the continent.
The American Journal of Human Genetics has unveiled a compelling perspective piece advocating for an inclusive and equitable future for DNA and ancient DNA (aDNA) research in Africa. Authored by 36 international scholars, the study is spearheaded by Elizabeth (Ebeth) Sawchuk of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Kendra Sirak of Harvard University.
Africa, with its unsurpassed genetic diversity, is a critical focal point for studying human evolution and population history. Yet, despite growing research activity, African scientists often find themselves marginalized in the field.
“Step one is to discuss African research in Africa,” Sawchuk, associate curator of human evolution at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, said in a news release. “Many African scholars face major barriers to attending genetics conferences held in North America and Europe, limiting their ability to lead and partner in DNA and aDNA research. Holding conversations in Africa allows voices and perspectives that have been historically sidelined to be heard.”
The article’s insights originate from the pioneering DNAirobi workshop held in May 2023 at Kenya’s National Museums. This event brought together geneticists, archaeologists and educators globally to chart a progressive path for DNA research on the continent. The paper encapsulates the rich discussions from DNAirobi and sets forth an ambitious vision for the coming decade.
“This study involved researchers from both the Global North and the Global South and underscores the potential DNA and ancient DNA hold for understanding ancient and modern human populations,” Fredrick Kyalo Manthi, director of antiquities, sites and monuments for the National Museums of Kenya, said in the news release. “It amplifies the need to train more African scholars, particularly in studies related to ancient DNA.”
The paper also underscores the ethical complexities of DNA and aDNA research. Each study impacts both historical narratives and contemporary communities. Thus, equitable partnerships, a mix of diverse perspectives and capacity building are essential. However, adopting best practice guidelines to fit Africa’s specific needs remains a challenge as fewer studies and suitable guidelines exist for the continent.
“We all want to carry out research that is equitable, engaged and inclusive,” added Sirak, research associate in Harvard University’s Department of Human Evolutionary Biology. “Our paper examines some of the structural barriers that currently stand in the way of creating a research ecosystem that facilitates this type of research — for example, a lack of accessible training opportunities, ineffective communication between scientists and the interested public, and a history of exploitative research practices on the African continent.”
The authors propose a dynamic framework for the future, incorporating “landmarks” to guide the evolution of genomics research. This includes transforming communication practices, redefining equitable partnerships and improving scientific literacy. Addressing deep-rooted imbalances in power and resources is crucial for this transformation.
“We seek to build a dynamic research ecosystem in which African scholars can effectively lead and partner in genomics research, and access the collaborators, labs and funding they need to achieve their goals,” added Christine Ogola, head of archaeology at the National Museums of Kenya. “The solution is not to immediately build population history-focused DNA and aDNA labs on the continent, which would be unrealistic at present to staff and maintain. Instead, we need to focus on building capacity and infrastructure in ways that sustainably support research leadership.”
The article concludes with a poignant call to action for increased funding and resources directed towards African scholars. There is an inherent tension between the swift publication demands of genomics research and the slower, necessary work of fostering community trust and equitable partnerships.
“Africans are the primary knowledge holders of African samples, data and historical contexts. We want more access to DNA and aDNA research and the resources and training to support more African-led studies in the future,” said Emmanuel Ndiema, head of earth sciences for the National Museums of Kenya. “An ethical and equitable future for African genomics research requires investing in entire societies and the next generation of scholars, work that will take decades and have impacts that go far beyond genetics research.”
As the field of genomics continues to evolve, initiatives like DNAirobi and the pathways outlined in this new perspective piece are vital stepping stones towards a more inclusive global research community.