Welcome to the exciting world of bacteriophages in Africa! This inaugural post will be showing us the journey to uncover the fascinating diagnostic and therapeutic potential of these natural ‘bacteria eaters’ and their benefits for the African continent in the fight against Antimicrobial Resistance. Indeed, Africa is experiencing an alarming increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans, livestock and environment, we shall be discussing ongoing research projects including fundamental research, clinical trials as well success stories where phages have been used to treat antibiotic resistant infections in humans, plants and animals.
Bacteriophages play a huge ecological role in the environment and with Africa’s massive ecosystem, we shall note on how they influence bacterial populations in a way to balance diverse habitats. There are novel discoveries, which are highlighting the unique diversity of bacteriophages found in Africa. We shall be shedding light on African research projects contributing to expanding our knowledge in phage genomics, metagenomics, proteomics and phage-host interactions for development of drugs and diagnostic tools.
There is evidence that phages can be utilized to monitor water quality, detect and control waterborne pathogens. We shall be highlighting how some studies have been addressing this issue as waterborne and foodborne diseases are rampant within the continent in both rural and urban settings. Food security and enhancing agricultural productivity is a major concern on the African continent. We shall also be touching base on different studies across the continent where phages have been used as natural alternatives to chemical pesticides and other biofertilizers.
Finally, we are also looking forward to contributing to overcoming the challenges faced African phage researchers. We shall be addressing challenges such as limited resources, need for improved infrastructure and lack of awareness. Together, we want to propose potential solutions and collaborations that can help promote further exploration of phages in African Ecosystem. We want to encourage our readers to engage with this topic by promoting more knowledge sharing platforms, collaborations and the need to approach this science with an interdisciplinary mindset to maximize understanding and utilizing these little creatures! Let’s enjoy this journey together! By Suubi Ivy Grace Chimulwa