The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) proudly celebrates the recognition of one of its distinguished Fellows, Professor Abdoulaye Djimdé, as the laureate of theFifth Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize for Medical Research. This prestigious honour, awarded by the Government of Japan, underscores Prof Djimdé’s groundbreaking contributions to malaria research and reaffirms AAS’s mandate to recognize and celebrate scientific excellence across the continent.

Prof Djimdé, who was elected as a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (FAAS) in 2016, has made pioneering advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of antimalarial drug resistance. As a globally respected molecular parasitologist and professor at the University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB) in Mali, his research has played a critical role in informing public health strategies to combat malaria, a disease that continues to afflict millions across Africa.

The Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize, established in 2006 to honour the legacy of Dr Hideyo Noguchi and support efforts in medical research and healthcare services in Africa, is awarded once every five years. It recognizes individuals and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in the fields of medical research or medical services to combat infectious diseases and improve health outcomes on the African continent.

Prof Djimdé’s award acknowledges his outstanding research on the genomics of malaria parasites and antimalarial drug resistance, which has directly influenced the development of national and global malaria treatment guidelines. His leadership in the development of the Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC) in Mali, and his work in fostering collaborative research networks across Africa, have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also built capacity for African-led research.

The AAS takes immense pride in the achievements of its Fellows, who embody the Academy’s mission to recognize, promote and support excellence in science. Prof Djimdé’s election as an AAS Fellow in 2016 was a testament to his outstanding scholarly contributions and leadership in African science. His latest honour reaffirms the role of the AAS in identifying and endorsing scientific leaders whose work has a profound impact both regionally and globally.

As Africa continues to confront complex health challenges, the contributions of scientists like Prof Abdoulaye Djimdé demonstrate the importance of sustained investment in research and the power of homegrown solutions. The AAS remains committed to nurturing and celebrating such excellence, empowering the continent’s scientists to lead transformational change.