The IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi concluded in October with the adoption of the first-ever global policy on synthetic biology and nature conservation. Developed through a transparent process led by IUCN members, the policy is based on extensive consultation, including contributions from a randomly selected group of IUCN members, a multi-stakeholder working group, and external peer reviews. It was adopted by IUCN’s highest decision-making body, its Members’ Assembly, which brings together the Union’s governmental, non-governmental, and indigenous organizations.
While not a blanket endorsement of synthetic biology, this outcome creates the conditions for responsible innovation at a time when conservation and public health crises demand new tools and solutions. For Africa, these decisions have profound implications. Africa bears one of the heaviest burdens of mortality from vector-borne diseases, particularly malaria, which alone kills more than 500,000 people a year on the continent.
Synthetic biology and public health: an opportunity for Africa
The debate on synthetic biology is particularly relevant to public health challenges in Africa, especially the fight against malaria. Current tools for controlling vector-borne diseases have saved millions of lives, but are not sufficient to eliminate them. Innovative solutions are needed to complement existing methods. Genetic approaches to vector control, such as genetically modified mosquitoes, offer a promising avenue. These approaches include both “suppression mechanisms” designed to reduce mosquito populations and “replacement mechanisms” that would render mosquitoes incapable of transmitting malaria parasites.
As a player in the fight against vector-borne diseases, ACEME welcomes the Congress’s decision, which provides an important framework for informed and responsible decision-making regarding these new technologies. This decision means that research on these potential tools can continue, in accordance with national regulations and the case-by-case assessment framework defined in the new policy. The decision therefore recognizes the importance for governments to make their own decisions on these approaches, taking into account their specific national priorities and contexts. The outcome of the Congress reinforces the IUCN’s role as a responsible policy leader and aligns with international practices already established in other key forums and agreements, including the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Cartagena Protocol.
For these tools to truly benefit the African continent and contribute to the elimination of vector-borne diseases, it is essential that Africa be not just a spectator, but an active participant. In the future, strengthening the capacities of African scientists and researchers will be key, as will strengthening risk assessment systems and establishing transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.
