Challenges and Obstacles of Clinical Research in Africa: The Case of HIV
Agbogbenkou TDD Lawson, Maimouna M Sidibé, Louise L Fortes, Pape Amadou Niang, Sylvie Audrey SA Diop.
Introduction: As 2023, Africa accounted for nearly two-thirds of the global population living with HIV. Research is essential in achieving the goal of eliminating HIV by 2030. Globally, only 20 to 30% of clinical trials are conducted in low- and middle-income countries. The objective of our work was to describe the challenges and obstacles related to clinical research in Africa in the context of HIV infection.
Methodology: We carried out a cross-sectional, descriptive study with analytical objectives through a targeted, self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire. Healthcare professionals (doctors) involved in the fight against HIV in Africa were surveyed and responded to our study.
Results: 370 respondents were registered, mainly from West Africa (62.43%) and Central Africa (30.27%). 59.45% reported limited research budgets, while 41.62% found project submission procedures complex or unfamiliar and the priorities of donors do not meet the specific needs of Africa (40.54%). Lack of qualified personnel (54.32%), lack of a research-dedicated team (39.45%), low remuneration (45.13%) and the lack of suitable infrastructure (39.72%) are reported obstacles. The unavailability of medicines in the countries of the South (38.37%) and the complexity of obtaining ethical approvals (26.21%) represented the challenges to be overcome in the context of clinical research.
Conclusion: Improved access to funding, expanded budgets, better infrastructure, and a more qualified workforce would strengthen Africa’s capacity for clinical research.
