The University of the Free State – Next Generation Sequencing (UFS-NGS) Unit was represented by Dr. Emmanuel Ogunbayo at the Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2025), held in the vibrant city of Durban last week. Convened by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the annual CPHIA is a premier platform that brings together public health professionals, policymakers, researchers, and development partners from across the continent to exchange ideas and strengthen collaborative action toward improving health outcomes in Africa.
Dr. Emmanuel contributed to the conference’s scientific programme with a presentation titled “Perinatal influences on the infant gut bacteriome and resistome: Implications for antimicrobial stewardship.” This research explores how perinatal factors, such as maternal health, delivery mode, and antibiotic exposure, shape the infant gut microbiome and resistome. By investigating these relationships, the study provides critical insights into the early-life microbial processes that influence antimicrobial resistance (AMR) development and highlights the implications for antimicrobial stewardship within maternal and child health.
Dr. Emmanuel noted that participating in CPHIA 2025 was an invaluable opportunity to share findings, gain perspectives from leading researchers, and strengthen networks that support collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to addressing Africa’s public health challenges.
“The conference underscored the importance of evidence-based research and cross-sectoral partnerships in tackling antimicrobial resistance and advancing public health innovation across the continent,” Dr. Emmanuel reflected.
A special acknowledgment was extended to Prof. Martin Nyaga, Head of the UFS-NGS Unit, for his mentorship and continuous support. His leadership and commitment to fostering research excellence remain integral to the success of the Unit’s projects and international collaborations.
Dr. Emmanuel’s participation at CPHIA 2025 exemplifies the UFS-NGS Unit’s dedication to advancing genomic research that informs public health policy and strengthens health systems in Africa. The Unit continues to contribute to the global discourse on antimicrobial resistance and microbial genomics through impactful research, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
By Palesa Tsunke
