AMBSO CAB attended the 19th Annual Cross-CAB Network Forum

By Hillary Wamani
07th December 2024

The Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO) Community Advisory Board (CAB) recently took part in the 19th National Cross Community Advisory Board (Cross CAB) forum, which was held at the Hotel Zebra in Masaka City. This significant event occurred from December 4th to 6th, 2024, under the theme “Community Capacity Building for Co-Creation of Biomedical Research.” The prestigious event, brought together Community Advisory Boards from eight leading public health research institutions, including; AMBSO, IDI, MU-JHU, JCRC, MUWRP, RHSP, UVRI-IAVI and MRC/UVRI/LSHTM.

While contributing the major discussions on the opening day, Mr. Emmanuel Kyasanku, AMBSO’s Program Director, emphasized the critical role of the Cross-CAB Network in advancing community engagement in research. He highlighted that such platforms are essential for aligning health interventions with the needs and priorities of the populations they serve. He encouraged the leadership of the network to organize more of such engagements since they play a pivotal role in strengthening partnerships between community stakeholders and researchers, ensuring that health research remains impactful and community-centered across Uganda.

The forum facilitated meaningful discussions on several critical topics. Participants explored strategies to enhance adolescent involvement in research and examined the implications of the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) guidelines on research practices, and findings from the PURPOSE 1 trial which AMBSO participating in, was also presented. All the discussions held for the 2 days of the forum underscored the importance of co-creation in research to ensure that health interventions are not only scientifically sound but also socially and culturally relevant.