Areas of Work

Research

At THGO, research is at the core of our mission. We coordinate human genetics research in Tanzania by mapping available resources, identifying gaps, and creating opportunities for collaboration among scientists and institutions.

Training

THGO is dedicated to building local capacity through both short- and long-term training programs. We provide opportunities for healthcare workers, scientists, researchers, data experts, and policymakers to strengthen their knowledge and skills in human genetics.

Advocacy

At THGO, advocacy is central to our mission of creating awareness and driving positive change. We work closely with patient communities, healthcare providers, and partners to promote understanding of human genetics and its role in health and well-being.

Diagnostics

THGO is committed to strengthening the diagnosis of genetic conditions in Tanzania. We are developing a diagnostic framework that maps existing services and partners, creating a clear pathway to guide patient referrals and improve access to care.

Therapeutics

At THGO, we are advancing the future of treatment for genetic disorders. Our work focuses on identifying therapeutic needs within the Tanzanian context and supporting research that drives innovations in drug and gene therapies.

Achievements

THGO has hosted major conferences, including the first THGO conference and the 13th Africa Society of Human Genetics annual meeting, as well as the second THGO conference on personalized medicine.

We have initiated key research projects such as the Tanzania Human Genome Variation Project, the Rare Diseases Project, sequencing capacity initiatives, and efforts to increase human genetics awareness among researchers.

In addition, our Transforming Education Project highlights the role of genetics in Tanzania and beyond.

Partners: Africa Society of Human Genetics (AfSHG), National Institute for Medical Research (Tanzania), Government Chemist Laboratory Agency, Ministry of Health, Illumina, Sciex.

THGO has prioritized capacity building through training programs such as the Next Generation Sequencing Bioinformatics course, rare disease workshops for clinicians, and participation in a gene editing course.

We have also supported the African Genomic Medicine Training Initiative (AGMT), the Introduction to Bioinformatics Training (IBT), and contributed to the development of a Master’s in Bioinformatics curriculum.

Partners: Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), H3ABioNet, AfSHG, Illumina, Inqaba.

THGO has commemorated Rare Diseases Day (2020–2023) and raised awareness of various genetic conditions, including autism, albinism, sickle cell disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, malaria, lupus, and diabetes.

We actively engage with national bodies in Tanzania (mainland and Zanzibar) and have partnered with regional and international initiatives such as the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Youth Forum health cluster.

Partners: Ali Kimara Foundation, Illumina, Sciex, SAYOF.

We have developed a diagnostic framework for rare genetic disorders, identified key partners to facilitate diagnosis, and strengthened capacity in genetic counseling for patients and families.

These efforts address gaps in patient referral systems and improve access to timely and reliable genetic services.

Partners: Serenox, MGL, public and private hospitals.

THGO has conducted an audit on the availability of FDA-approved drugs for rare genetic disorders and worked to identify opportunities for access to therapies.

We are also advancing efforts in pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine by collaborating with pharmaceutical bodies and patient communities.

Partners: Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA), pharmaceutical professional bodies, patient communities.