End of the international symposium organized as part of the activities of the South TROUVE GDRI

The Microbiome at the Heart of the Fight Against Tropical Diseases!

The Higher Institute for Scientific and Medical Research (ISM) hosted an exciting international symposium on “Innovative Approaches to Anti-Vector Control: The Role of the Microbiome” from June 29 to June 30, 2023. This symposium was organized as part of the activities of the International Research Group-South “Trypanosome-Onchocerciasis: Microbiome for Anti-Vector Control” (GDRI-South TROUVE), with financial support from the Institute of Research for Development (IRD).

For two days, experts in human and animal health, as well as researchers from around the world, exchanged their knowledge on innovative approaches to combat the vector insects of trypanosomiasis and onchocerciasis. The central focus of the discussions was the microbiome of these vectors and its potential to suppress their vector competence.

This scientific event was co-organized by two distinguished researchers: Dr. NANA DJEUNGA, Researcher at ISM and President of the Symposium’s Organizing Committee, and Dr. Anne GEIGER, Researcher at IRD in Montpellier, France, and Coordinator of GDRI-South TROUVE. They joined forces to bring together various stakeholders involved in the fight against tropical diseases in Cameroon and Guinea, during an enriching roundtable discussion preceding three sessions.

Young researchers and students also excelled during this symposium by presenting their research to the experts in attendance at ISM. A unique opportunity to share their findings and engage with leading specialists.

Under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health of Cameroon, this event was inaugurated by Professor Emilienne EPEE, Head of Service in charge of Research at the Integrated Coordination Unit for Neglected Tropical Diseases. As for the closing ceremony, it was graced by the presence of Dr. Georges B. NKO’AYISSI, Deputy Director in charge of Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases, accompanied by numerous distinguished guests.