Africa Biotech Conversations

Welcome to another special episode of the Dialogue with African Biotech Leaders series, dedicated to exploring the theme of biotechnology for gender equality.

In this episode, we delve into the intersection of biotechnology and gender equality, discussing both the challenges and successes within this dynamic field. Our goal is to envision a future where biotechnology serves as a catalyst for positive change.

Join us as we introduce our distinguished panelists:

• Dr. Sibongile Gumbi: Founder and CEO of Smart Biotech, South Africa, with a PhD in pharmacology, and numerous certifications in finance, intellectual property, and technology management.
• Dr. Sarah Carroll: Co-founder and CEO of Mari Health Solutions, South Africa, leveraging proteomics and bioinformatics to optimize aquaculture practices.
• Dr. Allama El Mehdi: CEO of Prophamedis International from Mauritania, a medical doctor with an MBA specializing in biotechnology and international business administration.
• Dr. Shameem Fawdar: Deputy CEO of Axonova Pharma Limited, Mauritius, with a PhD in stem cell and cancer biology.

Throughout this episode, we explore:

• The remarkable achievements of these trailblazing women in the biotech industry.
• Personal stories and experiences of overcoming challenges in a traditionally male-dominated field.
• The role of mentorship and the importance of building networks for young women in biotech.
• How biotech innovations are addressing gender-specific health issues and empowering women economically.
• Insights on how men can support gender equality in the biotech sector.

We also discuss the broader implications of gender equality in biotech, emphasizing the need for fair attitudes, open minds, and inclusive practices to drive innovation and societal growth.

Stay Connected: Join the Dialogue with African Biotech Leaders LinkedIn page for updates on future episodes and events: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9389009/

Watch the video recording of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vID0EN7IBE8

Welcome to the second retrospective episode of the Dialogue with African Biotech Leaders series. In this episode, we feature an engaging panel of experienced biotech leaders from across Africa and the diaspora. Join us as we delve into the intersections of biotechnology, leadership, and the unique opportunities and challenges within the African biotech landscape.

Our esteemed panelists, Dr. Omar Sakr, Mrs. Delali Attipoe, and Dr. Davidson Ateh, bring diverse perspectives from Cairo, Egypt; Mauritius; and Washington, D.C. We explore their journeys, key turning points in their careers, and how they overcame significant challenges in the biotech sector. This episode has a particular focus on the health applications of biotech, but the insights shared are broadly applicable across various domains of biotechnology.

Key topics discussed include:

• The importance of building a pan-African network to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Overcoming infrastructure and regulatory challenges in African biotech.
• Strategies for scaling biotech ventures across African markets.
• The potential of AI and technological innovations to drive advancements in biotech.
• Harnessing local talent and leveraging the expertise of the African diaspora.

Listen in to gain valuable insights from our panelists' experiences and learn how you can contribute to and benefit from the growing biotech ecosystem in Africa.

Connect and Collaborate: Join the LinkedIn page of the Dialogue with African Biotech Leaders and stay updated on future episodes and events: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9389009/

Watch the video recording of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkxdC7EAS-Q

Welcome to a special retrospective episode of our digital networking platform, the Dialogue with African Biotech Leaders, dedicated to engaging and empowering members of the African biotech community. 

This platform aims to connect, engage, and exchange ideas, transcending geographical boundaries to fully unleash the potential of the African biotech industry.

Join us as we reflect on the insights shared by our esteemed guests: Dr. Siya Ntutela, Non-Executive Director of Africa Bio, and Dr. Laud Bassing, founder and CEO of Incas Diagnostics.

Dr. Ntutela provided a comprehensive overview of the biotech landscape in Africa, highlighting the importance of young and female researchers taking their place in the global space. Dr. Bassing discussed his inspiring journey into the biotech industry and the significant impact of winning the startup pitching competition at the 2023 Africa Health ExCon in Cairo, Egypt.

Engage with us as we continue to build a pan-African network of biotech leaders, including those in the diaspora, to drive the sustainable growth and development of the African biotech industry.

Join the Conversation: Subscribe to the platform’s LinkedIn page for updates and engage in upcoming events: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9389009/

Watch the video of this event on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjcsC7kHb_8

In this enlightening episode of the Africa Biotech Conversations Podcast, Siso Mbanxa, a research scientist at Newform Foods, delves into the intriguing world of biotechnology in the food industry, focusing on cultivated meat.

Her journey from academic research in biotech, particularly in cellular biology and tissue culture, to a role in the industry is explored.

The episode highlights the technological advancements and challenges in producing sustainable and efficient food systems, with a focus on cultivated meat's role in enhancing food security in Africa.

Siso's insightful discussion illuminates the potential of biotech to revolutionize the food industry, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable food production.

Dive into UNISA's efforts to integrate entrepreneurial skills among its students.

Spotlight on the tech transfer office and its role in encouraging new ventures.

🎙 Guests:

Mr. Sibusiso Malindisa: A decorated PhD candidate, lecturer, and biotech enthusiast with ambitions of establishing a biotech startup.
Mr. Basanda Pongoma: The bridge between business and academia, representing UNISA's directorate of innovation, technology transfer, and commercialization.

🎙 Discussion Highlights:

From Academia to Entrepreneurship:

Sibusiso's journey and the influence of his background.
The value of the scientific method in entrepreneurship.
Importance of mentors in developing an entrepreneurial mindset.

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Business:

Basanda's transition from a researcher in chemistry to technology management.
Managing the commercialization of IP from universities.

Learning from Babson Build MBA Entrepreneurship Summer Program:

Entrepreneurial concepts, from business models to marketing.
Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Monkeys analogy: Understanding the biotech market landscape.

The Role of Collaboration in Growth:

UNISA's push for international and local collaborations.
Sibusiso's personal interactions with global entrepreneurs.
Basanda's advice for fostering partnerships.

Tapping into Africa's Biotech Potential:

Sibusiso's insights on the future of biotech entrepreneurship in Africa, from precision medicine to agricultural innovations.

South African Ecosystem Deep Dive:

Infrastructure, funds, and policies already in place.
The challenge: Making the ecosystem work efficiently.
The role of universities, incubators, accelerators, and venture capitalists.
Highlight on the innovation fund introduced by the department of innovation science.

Concluding Thoughts:

The power and importance of partnerships and collaboration.
Harnessing the potential within universities and academic institutions.

Listen, Learn, and be Inspired!

Africa stands at a unique intersection, characterised by its challenges, which simultaneously present opportunities for innovation, especially in the biotech sector.

From energy to food security and healthcare, the continent's obstacles can be its biggest assets, positioning it as a key player in developing solutions that not only serve local needs but have the potential to revolutionise global industries.

Listen in to explore how, by building from within, Africa's innovations can seamlessly scale and integrate into global solutions.

Eugene Duvenage, CEO of Axaitech opens up about his transformative journey of bringing scientific innovation from the confines of the lab into the dynamic world of business. He touches upon the pivotal role of mentorship in his life and how seeking guidance from a successful figure outside the biotech sphere led him to an invaluable lesson: the essence of business is about focusing on people and not just passion for the product.

The conversation then steers towards the present and future of biotech, with a particular emphasis on the role of AI and machine learning. Eugene offers a fresh perspective, warning against the over-glorification of AI and predicting a future where the focus shifts from the tool (AI) to its innovative applications in biotech.

Eugene and the host, Dr Adrienne Leussa, ponder upon the road ahead for biotech in Africa and the rising concern of cancer in the continent. The role of both public and private sectors in supporting this journey is highlighted.

This episode paints a vivid picture of biotech in Africa, from the inspiring journey of a passionate entrepreneur to the broader narrative of a continent poised at the cusp of innovation, driven by its unique challenges and opportunities.

Next Episode Tease: Join us for another captivating episode as we continue to explore the multifaceted world of biotech in Africa, bringing stories of hope, innovation, and unwavering passion.

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In this episode of the Africa Biotech Conversations podcast, our host Dr Adrienne Leussa engages in a captivating discussion with Gian-Marco Melfi, a partner at One Bio Venture Studio. One Bio is a venture capital fund that focuses on investing in local biotech startups in Africa. Marco, a biomedical scientist with a background in biochemistry and biomedical sciences, shares his fascinating journey from research to startups and now investing and funding early-stage biotech companies. 

Marco discusses his experience at Cambridge University, where he supported biotech startups and spinouts through the Milner Therapeutics Institute. He highlights the advantages of building a biotech hub in Cape Town, South Africa, including the availability of talented scientific graduates and the potential for creating supportive ecosystems for startups. 

The two delve into the competitive advantage of building a biotech business in Africa, emphasising natural biodiversity and genetic diversity. Marco explains One Bio's approach to making first-time investments, focusing on competitive advantages, team dynamics, and advisory support to refine startup ideas. He underscores the importance of understanding the science behind investments and how the One Bio team's scientific background contributes to their success. 

The conversation also covered government involvement in the biotech industry in South Africa. Marco highlights the support mechanisms provided by the Department of Science and Innovation, such as soft grant funding and supporting funds and platforms. They discuss the thriving bioeconomy in South Africa and the significant role played by the government's bioeconomy strategy. 

Moving forward, Marco shares a story of one of their portfolio companies in the future of food or food tech space, showcasing their resilience in closing a pre-seed round with international investors. The challenges of raising international capital are explored, along with the tips and learnings gained from their fundraising journey. 

Marco emphasises the importance of building networks proactively and developing resilience and connections beyond scientific ideas. They stress the need for thorough preparation and the ability to answer technical, business development, financial, and budgeting questions. 

Marco reflects on his time studying biochemistry at Stellenbosch University, crediting senior biochemists' mentorship for solidifying his interest in the field. He also shares an inspiring story of a founder's dedication and determination witnessed in the Milner incubator. 

Marco discusses the commitment and sacrifice required to build a successful biotech company. He draws inspiration from notable biotech companies like Kappa Bio Systems and Gyroscope Therapeutics. Marco reveals One Bio's plans for expansion into other African countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Egypt. 

Crucial elements for a thriving biotech ecosystem are highlighted, including access to capital, support mechanisms, and talent. Marco emphasises the importance of shared access laboratories and support offerings to foster a sense of community among startups. He acknowledges the growing number of biotech startups in South Africa and other regions and emphasises the need to learn from other ecosystems while tailoring approaches to the local context. 

Tune in to this enlightening episode as Marco shares their expertise, experiences, and vision for the future of biotech in Africa. 

In this episode of Africa Biotech Conversations, host Adrienne Leussa welcomes Nii Simmonds, a non-resident fellow for the Atlantic Council and the Center for Global Development, based in Washington, DC. With a diverse background in pharmaceuticals, life sciences, consulting, and international development, Nii Simmonds emphasises the importance of supporting Africa's development and passing on skills to future African leaders. 

The discussion begins by exploring trends and opportunities for investors and biotech entrepreneurs in Africa, considering the challenges in the financial landscape. Nii Simmonds highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in healthcare systems and supply chains, but also presents opportunities for Africa to develop its own pharmaceutical and vaccine manufacturing capabilities. Drawing inspiration from the success of India, Nii Simmonds suggests that Africa can learn from their achievements thanks to diaspora engagement. 

While acknowledging the difficulties in financing pharmaceutical ventures in Africa due to government-controlled healthcare systems, Nii Simmonds notes the growing interest in life sciences, pharma, and medical devices, with more skilled individuals from the diaspora returning to the continent. Africa's burgeoning population and rising disposable incomes are identified as significant market factors, and the continent's potential in producing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and leveraging its biodiversity is underscored. 

The conversation continues with a focus on the strategic plans of various governments over the past 50 years to engage the diaspora and leverage their experience for the benefit of India. Successful companies like Dr. Reddy’s and Ranbaxy in the pharmaceutical and life science space are highlighted as examples. Nii Simmonds emphasises the opportunities for African companies and entrepreneurs as the population grows and urban centres develop. He stresses the importance of health outcomes and the need for sophisticated capital markets in Africa. 

The episode provides guidance for African entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of building strong teams and finding the right support when raising capital. The potential for African entrepreneurs to integrate into global supply chains by supplying products and services is discussed. 

Nii Simmonds advises small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to gain experience and establish cash flow before venturing into niche markets like biopharmaceuticals. He advocates for focusing on addressing everyday challenges in Africa, such as malaria and food insecurity, before moving up the value chain. 

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies on Africa is also explored. While acknowledging the enhancements in productivity and business reach that AI offers, Nii Simmonds highlights concerns about job displacement. They stress the need for an Africa-focused debate on how to harness AI in the context of African realities and challenges to drive development. Addressing fundamental needs such as food, education, and basic infrastructure is deemed essential before fully adopting AI. 

Finally, Nii Simmonds shares insights into advising and mentoring early-stage ventures, highlighting challenges such as building a strong advisory board, establishing governance structures, attracting talent, and raising capital. The higher costs and complexities involved in biotech and life science startups compared to consumer internet startups are emphasised. 

Join Adrienne Leussa and Nii Simmonds in this enlightening episode as they delve into the opportunities, challenges, and potential of Africa's biotech sector, discussing the importance of innovation, investment, and collaboration to drive sustainable development and improve health outcomes across the continent. 

In this episode of Africa Biotech Conversations, host Adrienne Leussa (PhD) interviews Dr. Nhlanhla Msomi, the president and chairman of Africa Bio, a nonprofit association advocating for biotechnology in Africa. Dr. Msomi shares his extensive experience and insights into the biotech sector and the objectives of Africa Bio.

The conversation delves into Africa Bio's mission to defend and promote evidence-driven policies for biotechnology adoption, particularly in agriculture and healthcare. Dr. Msomi mentioned the need to address misconceptions surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the lack of availability of biosimilars in Africa's healthcare industry as some of the factors that brought Africa Bio into existence.

The interview highlights the upcoming African Health Excon event, where Africa Bio is organising a Startup Stadium. The Startup Stadium aims to provide a platform for startups in the biotech and healthcare sectors to showcase their innovations and connect with potential partners and investors. Dr. Msomi discusses the expansion of the Startup Stadium concept to other regions in Africa, fostering local innovation and indigenous healthcare solutions.

Dr. Msomi shares his vision for Africa Bio as a federation of innovation activists, with chapters established across the African continent to address regional agendas and drive innovation. The importance of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the role of startups in driving indigenous innovation are emphasised.

You are encouraged to join Africa Bio, contribute to the growth of biotech in Africa, and stay tuned for upcoming events and initiatives such as the 2023 Bio Africa Convention taking place from 1-6 September in Durban, South Africa.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the exciting potential of biotech in Africa and the role it can play in solving indigenous healthcare challenges.

In this podcast, host Adrienne Leussa speaks with Shobhita Soor from Ghana to learn about her journey as a biotech entrepreneur and sustainable nutrition solutions.

Shobhita is the founder of two startups, Aspire Food Group and Legendary Foods. The mission of Legendary Foods is to deliver the nutrition of meat at the price point and the sustainability of plants.

Insects are consumed by a third of the world's population and they are an underutilised resource to provide high-quality nutrition.

Tune in to learn more about Shobhita's journey as a biotech entrepreneur and her innovative solutions to sustainable nutrition!

Highlights:

• Insects provide sustainable nutrition
• Adapting and building resiliently as a biotech entrepreneur in Africa
• Women need equal opportunities
• Partnerships with startups, academic institutions and established consumer goods companies.