Launched in 2003 to support the Millennium Development Goals and later the Sustainable Development Goals, the European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) has been a key force in advancing biomedical studies Africa. Over the years, the partnership has helped develop vital health solutions, including paediatric HIV and tuberculosis medicines, malaria vaccines, and treatments for neglected tropical diseases. These innovations are saving lives and strengthening global health security.
Co-authored by:
- Martin Fitchet, Executive Director of Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV)
- Luis Pizarro, Executive Director of the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi)
- Marina Gold, Executive Director of Mundo Sano
Credits: Photo by Riccardo Niels Mayer
Even with major progress in global health, new challenges continue to arise. Re-emerging infections, pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-related health impacts are constant threats. In this context, strong Africa-Europe cooperation is more important than ever for both prosperity and public health security.
EDCTP3: Driving Health Innovation Across Continents
Now in its third phase, Global Health EDCTP3 is funded by the European Union, 15 European countries, and 31 African nations. Its goal is to speed up the development of medical innovations tackling infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, pandemic preparedness, and climate-related health impacts. The program also strengthens research capacities and promotes collaborations across Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.
Over the last 20 years, EDCTP has become a leading driver of public health initiatives, addressing unmet medical needs and protecting vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Breakthrough Treatments Transforming Lives
Coartem Baby: The First Malaria Treatment for Infants
Malaria affects over 250 million people every year and kills more than half a million, mostly children under five in sub-Saharan Africa. EDCTP has played a major role in supporting research for malaria prevention and treatment.
In 2025, research co-funded by EDCTP2, MMV, and Novartis led to the approval of Coartem Baby, the first malaria treatment for infants weighing 2 to <5 kg. Developed through the PAMAfrica consortium, it fills a long-standing treatment gap for the world’s smallest patients.https://edctpforum.eu/
“Every major achievement by MMV comes from working closely with diverse partners. EDCTP-supported consortia like PAMAfrica help expand the antimalarial toolbox, build research capacity in endemic countries, and strengthen global collaboration toward a malaria-free future,” said Martin Fitchet, CEO of MMV.
Ivermectin/Albendazole: Child-Friendly Worm Infection Treatment
Worm infections affect more than 1.5 billion people worldwide, harming children’s growth and health. EDCTP, in partnership with Mundo Sano and Insud Pharma, developed a fixed-dose combination of ivermectin and albendazole—a safer and more effective solution.
This mango-flavored, dissolvable tablet treats multiple parasite species in a single dose. In January 2025, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) issued a positive opinion, paving the way for its introduction in priority countries.
“This combination reflects 15 years of commitment by Mundo Sano and Insud Pharma to deliver better public health initiatives through innovative research and partnerships. Nearly 20 institutions contributed to providing countries with a superior tool to meet their control and elimination goals,” said Dr. Marina Gold, CEO of Mundo Sano.
Fexinidazole: The First All-Oral Cure for Sleeping Sickness
Sleeping sickness, a deadly parasitic disease spread by tsetse flies, remains common in 36 African countries. Previous treatments required hospitalization and painful procedures. Fexinidazole, the first all-oral cure, makes treatment simpler, safer, and more accessible.
Developed by DNDi and Sanofi, Fexinidazole received EMA approval for the T.b. gambiense strain in 2018 and for the T.b. rhodesiense strain in 2023 with EDCTP support. The WHO now distributes it free of charge in Ethiopia, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
“With Fexinidazole’s approval, doctors across Africa can save lives using this easy-to-take treatment. Combined with upcoming single-dose therapies, eliminating sleeping sickness is now within reach,” said Dr. Luis Pizarro, Executive Director of DNDi.
Credits: Global Health EDCTP3-funded IMVACS project
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Africa-Europe Health Partnerships
These breakthroughs highlight EDCTP’s model of fair and collaborative partnerships, where African and European partners share leadership and results. The program successfully translates scientific research into real-world health tech advancements, connecting product development partnerships, industry, and foundations.
The upcoming 2026 EDCTP Work Programme will open new funding opportunities for researchers advancing global health. As European and African leaders meet in Angola, EDCTP demonstrates how long-term, equitable partnerships can deliver lasting impact, build trust, and address the world’s most pressing health challenges.
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This story was first reported by Science|Business. Read the full article here.
