Brazzaville – On World Health Day 2026, under the theme “Together for Health. Stand with Science,” the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights committed individuals who use science to improve people’s lives. In the African Region, these initiatives demonstrate the concrete impact of research.
An internationally renowned researcher, Professor Francine Ntoumi, is one of Central Africa’s leading scientific figures.
For several decades, she has dedicated her work to combating malaria and developing solutions tailored to African realities.
As Founder and Executive Director of the Congolese Foundation for Medical Research (FCRM), she brings science closer to communities while strengthening local research capacity.
In this interview, she shares her perspectives on trust in science, anticipating health threats, and the future of younger generations.
How can trust in science and local research be strengthened among Congolese and African populations today?
Strengthening trust is based above all on a simple but essential principle: bringing science closer to the people. Research must not remain confined to laboratories or reserved for specialists. It is important to clearly explain what is being done, why it is being done, and what results are achieved.
Communities must be able to understand and take ownership of the work of local researchers. This requires improved communication between scientists, communities, and decision-makers. When science is accessible, transparent, and connected to everyday life, trust builds naturally.
Why is biomedical research indispensable for anticipating future health threats in Central Africa?
Biomedical research allows us to move from emergency reaction to anticipation. It helps us detect disease-causing agents earlier, understand their evolution, and monitor their transmission in our specific contexts.
To anticipate means identifying risks before they become major crises. It also means developing locally adapted solutions, such as diagnostic tools, treatments, and prevention strategies. By strengthening our capacity to produce our own responses, research directly contributes to the Region’s health sovereignty.
What recent advances in the fight against malaria make you particularly optimistic?
Important progress is underway, particularly in the development of new malaria treatments. A new therapeutic combination—simple, effective, and affordable—is currently being tested and is showing promising results.
These advances are crucial, as malaria continues to affect many families across Africa. The prospect of better-adapted and accessible treatments offers real hope for protecting populations, particularly in the most exposed areas.
What message would you like to send to young girls who dream of becoming scientists?
I would tell them to dare, without limiting themselves because of gender or geographic origin. Science needs their intelligence, creativity, and sensitivity. Being a scientist requires passion and hard work, but every effort matters.
Even small successes today can pave the way for major achievements tomorrow. All areas of development need committed scientists. One must move forward with determination and believe in one’s ability to contribute to progress.
On World Health Day 2026, what call would you like to make to decision-makers and communities?
Health sovereignty in Africa is neither a distant idea nor a theoretical concept—it is an urgent necessity. It cannot exist without local innovation. Africa must not remain a mere consumer of solutions designed elsewhere. It is crucial to develop technologies adapted to local realities: simple tools for rural areas, accessible digital solutions, and interventions that are both effective and affordable.
This sovereignty is built in laboratories, universities, and public policies, as well as through the active participation of communities. Supporting science today means protecting tomorrow’s health.
