Researchers' perspectives on the integration of molecular and genomic data into malaria elimination programmes in Africa: a qualitative study.

Abstract

Background: Malaria remains a significant public health concern, despite global efforts to combat the disease with highest burden in Africa. Reports of emerging artemisinin partial- resistance in East Africa emphasize the importance of molecular data to guide policy decisions. Hence the need for researchers to collaborate with National control programmes to conduct genomics surveillance of malaria to inform malaria control and elimination policies. This study explored genomic researchers' views on engaging with national control programmes to aid malaria elimination efforts in Africa.

Methods: This research employed an exploratory qualitative approach to investigate the views and experiences of malaria genomics researchers across 16 member countries of the Pathogen Genomic Diversity Network Africa (PDNA). In-depth interviews were conducted with each PDNA Principal Investigator, which were recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Subsequently, the data were analysed thematically with NVivo 12 qualitative data analysis software.

Results: The study revealed that majority of malaria genomics researchers focused on understanding the genetic composition and adaptation of the malaria parasite, its vector, and human host. Their investigations delved into areas such as drug and insecticide resistance, parasite evolution, host interactions, human host susceptibility to malaria, diversity of vaccine candidates, and molecular surveillance of malaria. Challenges included limited funding, lack of interest and capacity among National Malaria Control Programmes (NMCP) to use research evidence effectively, and difficulties in communicating data implications to policymakers due to the absence of WHO-certified use cases. Despite these obstacles, researchers expressed a keen interest in forming partnerships with NMCPs to integrate genetic data into malaria control efforts in Africa. They also stressed the importance of enhancing researchers' ability to communicate findings to policymakers and local communities through policy briefs and innovative communication strategies.

Conclusion: The study underscores the need to strengthen partnerships between genomic researchers and NMCPs to support malaria elimination in Africa. Furthermore, researchers should create practical frameworks for easy integration into WHO reporting formats to facilitate the use of molecular and genomic data in malaria control programme decision-making.