Exploring the Future of Science: Highlights from the SynBio Africa’s SBA 2.0 Conference in Africa
By Sandra Matinyi
With rapid advancements in science and technology, synthetic biology stands as a field that is continually redefining innovation in biology. From July 12-14, 2023, SynBio Africa hosted the SBA 2.0 Synthetic Biology and Biosecurity Conference in Africa at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, Uganda. The event brought together academicians, industry players, policy makers, researchers, students and enthusiasts alike to to explore the advancements and opportunities in the field of synthetic biology.
As the chair of the organizing committee, I had the privilege of overseeing the conference, a platform that ignited insightful discussions, fostered collaboration, and explored the captivating realm of synthetic biology and its intersection with biosecurity.
The conference spanned 3 days with illuminating keynote addresses and plenary sessions that ignited the imagination of the audience.
Keynote Addresses:
The conference kicked off with official opening remarks by Prof. Okware Samuel, the Director General of Uganda National Health Research Organization (UNHRO). The conference stage was then set with a very inspiring keynote address by John Cumbers of SynBio Beta. John’s address highlighted synthetic biology’s potential to grow Africa’s bioeconomy. The audience was hooked as he presented about examples of companies that have utilized synthetic biology to develop products that are used in everyday life e.g lanzatech - producer of chemicals and fuels from industrial waste gases, Mzansi – cell cultured meat startup, Perfect day - producer of animal free dairy products etc.
The other key note speakers included Dr. Deepak Balaji, Manager – CSIR Synthetic Biology and Precision Medicine Centre, South Africa, Dr. Christophe Lanneau, Director of Research and Platforms, Genopole whose speech offered a global perspective on the "One Health" approach, emphasizing the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. Prof. Chris Voigt, Massachusetts Institute of Technology contributed a thought-provoking keynote that envisioned the role of synthetic biology in sculpting a sustainable bioeconomy. Andrew Hessel, Chairman, Genome Project-write; Co-founder, Humane Genomics who captivated the audience with his insights into the near-future challenges and opportunities within the field. His keynote address forecasted the exciting horizons that await us. And Michael Koepke of LanzaTech who contributed an enriching keynote that delved into the revolution of a circular, green, and bio economy.
The Plenary sessions:
Plenary 1:
Innovations in agriculture. This plenary underscored the potential of synthetic biology in reshaping agriculture. From Victoria Madedor's discourse on verified agribusiness databases to Erikan Baluku's revelation on omics in resurrection plants, and Prof. Lionel Clarke's exploration of engineering biology for global markets, the plenary heralded a promising start.
Plenary 2:
Creating Solutions with Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence. During this plenary, Synthetic biology's bond with bioinformatics and AI came to the fore. Assoc. Presentations included Prof. Tae Seok Moon's insights into constructing smart microbes, Dr. Stephen O. Opiyo's comprehensive approach to biosafety, and Dr. Fedorec Alexander's take on synthetic microbial communities unveiled the collaborative dimensions of these domains.
Plenary 3:
Advances in Biosafety and Biosecurity: The second day commenced with a spotlight on biosafety and biosecurity. Discussions ranging from status assessments in Uganda by Paul Okwalinga to Samantha Dittrich's presentation on adapting biosecurity measures. Dr. Suryesh Namdeo elaborated on science diplomacy.
Plenary 4:
Enhancing Biosecurity in Africa. Speakers illuminated avenues for bolstering biosecurity. Dr. Claire Standley addressed legislative aspects, while Maureen Ellis of IFBA highlighted the need for professional certifications. Prof. Lijun Shang delved into bioethics, biosecurity, and governance.
Plenary 5:
Establishing Avenues for Multisectoral Collaboration. This plenary focused on collaboration between health, environment, and agriculture (One Health). Mr. Ian Peter Busuulwa explored World Organization for Animal Health's role, and Dr. Erin Sorrell focused on transboundary zoonoses the plenary emphasized collaboration between.
Plenary 6:
Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology Policy Landscape in Africa. This plenary delved into policy landscapes. From the evolution of biosafety frameworks in Uganda by Musa Kwehangana to Dr. Benson Kinyagia's discourse on bioethics and biosecurity governance, the plenary culminated in a panel discussion that featured Dr. John Cumbers, Isaac Ongu, Dr. Adrienne Leussa, and Joseph Nkodyo.
Plenary 7:
Achieving a Sustainable Bioeconomy: This plenary centered on a sustainable bioeconomy. Dr. Anne Meyer delved into bacterial microlenses, and Dr. Ineke Knot of Basecamp Research bridged the gap between biodiversity and biotechnology.
Plenary 8:
Navigating Africa’s biotech start-up environment: This plenary explored Agricultural Bio-innovations in Africa; Policy, Laws and Regulatory Challenges towards Commercialization by Dr. Andrew Kiggundu of Uganda Biotechnology and Biosafety Consortium. Dr. Jenny Molloy from University of Cambridge presented avenues of overcoming supply chain challenges to enable synthetic biology and biosensor innovation in Africa. It was concluded with a session by Dr. Adrienne Leussa of Sanilux PTY Ltd who discussed Partnering for Success: Leveraging Stakeholder Engagement to Navigate the Complexities of Africa's Biotech Ecosystem
In the margins of the conference, SynBio Africa team showcased the various projects under implementation. Also showcased were Makerere University iGEM teams’ projects.
Conclusion:
The conference was a masterpiece of ideas and aspirations reverently collected to drive transformative change. The Key message that was carried forward was the need to harness the transformative potential of synthetic biology while fostering a robust culture of biosecurity, thus shaping a future that respects the nuances of science, ethics, and safety in Africa and beyond.
Appreciation and Acknowledgements:
The Organising Committee that exhibited immense dedication, the generous support of our sponsors and to all the delegates, who not only attended but elevated this event with their expertise.
