Project 099: Strengthening Biosafety and Biosecurity capabilities in East and Central Africa

Context

Partner countries in Eastern and Central African region have put in place measures to mitigate the risks brought about by biological agents. In most countries, legislation and/or regulations have been developed, biosafety committees or frameworks are in place and are members of regional Associations. However, the legal framework may not be comprehensive and infrastructure may not be in line with advances regarding biological sciences. The interface between animal, human and environmental factors, security of high-containment facilities, detection of agents, transfer of materials, dual-use research, waste management and emergency response are sometimes not well stipulated in the law. Stakeholder involvement (such as farmers, dealers in agro-veterinary medicines and consumers) can also be a challenge.

Overall objective

Project 099 aims to improve the detection and mitigation against risks related to CBRN materials or agents and risks related to installations or sites through the EU CBRN Centres of Excellence Initiative and associated actions. 

This project is aimed at increasing national and regional capacity of the partner countries in protecting humans, animals and environment from accidental or intentional release of pathogens based on a One-Health approach and enhanced regional and international cooperation.

Specific objectives

• To strengthen the legislative framework in the Partner Countries in compliance with international requirements and regulations.
• To elaborate and put into practice risk assessments methods for biosafety and biosecurity in the Partner Countries.
• To reduce biological risks in laboratories/facilities, at national and regional levels through establishment of a Biorisk Management System.
• To reduce proliferation risks through establishment of a framework for Dual Use Research of Concern.
• To reduce public health risks through enhanced management of biological waste. 

Concrete activities

• Establishment of biosafety and biosecurity roadmaps.
• Revision of legislative frameworks in biosafety and biosecurity.
• Assessment of national biological risk using a novel tool developed with the region.
• Establishment of biorisk management systems at laboratories.
• Development of a framework for dual-use research of concern.
• Providing support on laboratory healthcare waste management.
• Collaboration with regional bodies, such as the East Africa Community (EAC), Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), African Union (AU), etc.

Expected results

• A comprehensive inventory of existing biosafety and biosecurity (BSS) capacities in human, animal, and environmental health sectors is established in partner countries.
• Countries’ alignment with international frameworks (e.g. Biological Weapons Convention, UNSCR 1540, International Health Regulations) is strengthened.
• A standardised risk assessment methodology is developed and implemented to identify potential biological threats to humans, animals, and the environment.
• Laboratories are assessed for ISO 35001 compliance, with targeted implementation of key principles, development of national policies, and personnel training to reinforce BSS standards.
• National systems are enhanced to monitor dual-use biological materials, secure transport and storage, and control access to hazardous substances through improved regulatory and border control procedures.
• Biological waste management is improved through the adoption of updated procedures, regulatory frameworks, and training, with a strong focus on raising awareness among professionals and the public.

Achievements

• Country profiles and legislative mappings on biosafety and biosecurity were developed for 11 partner countries, with validated frameworks in Burundi, Seychelles, Tanzania, and Uganda.
• A National Biological Risk Assessment (NBRA) tool was developed and piloted in four countries to identify priority biological threats and assess national response capabilities.
• A digital platform supports 16 laboratories in implementing ISO 35001, with regular exchanges and a panel discussion held at the IFBA 2025 conference.
• Oversight of dual-use research and biological materials has been mapped, with guidance developed and a regional workshop held on biosafety in cross-border transport.
• A train-the-trainer programme on biological waste management was rolled out in four countries, supported by tailored materials, an online resource hub, and upcoming regional training events.