Connecting the Dots

An Annual Dialogue on Harnessing Science and Innovation to Improve Lives, Well -Being and Drive Economic Growth

Recognizing the transformational power of science and innovation, the African Diaspora Network (ADN) is collaborating with scientific leaders across the continent and in the diaspora to develop a strategic framework that identifies, connects, and supports African scientists working toward shared goals in health, development, and economic growth.

Building on the 2025 session “Connecting the Dots: How Can We Strengthen Collaboration to Drive Scientific & Economic Progress,” which underscored the urgent need to expand Africa’s research and development capacity, the 2026 healthcare session will spotlight African scientists leading impactful scientific programs and their peers in the diaspora doing the same. This discussion will celebrate extraordinary talents making transformative contributions and explore strategies to deepen collaboration, expand research ecosystems, and scale innovations that can shape the continent’s future.

Speakers

Collen Masimirembwa

Collen Masimirembwa

Founder, President and Chief Scientific Officer, African Institute of Biomedical Science & Technology (AiBST)

Keynote Speaker

Kedest Tesfagiorgis

Kedest Tesfagiorgis

Deputy Director, Global Partnerships & Grand Challenges, Gates Foundation

Moderator

Ify Aneibo

African Center of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Disease

Dr. Menghis Bairu

Bio Usawa

Yaw Bediako

Dr. Yaw Bediako

CEO and Co-Founder at Yemaachi Biotech

Anita Ghansah

Anita Ghansah

Associate Professor, Noguchi Memorial at Univ. of Ghana

Fredros Okumu

Science Advisor, ASCE at ADN