Contextualising ELSI in African Genomics

Genomics is increasingly influencing healthcare globally, yet in many African contexts it remains unfamiliar outside specialist circles, with ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) often overlooked. This socio-legal analysis examines how law, ethics, and social context shape the implementation of genomics in Africa beyond biomedical considerations alone. It argues that Africa’s readiness for genomics depends not only on regulatory reform, but on embedding ELSI awareness and capacity across stakeholder groups. Strengthening ELSI can support African-led governance, data sovereignty, trust, and equitable benefit-sharing, while avoiding the uncritical adoption of Global North regulatory models.Poster accepted for presentation at the Festival of Genomics & Biodata 2026, London, UK, 28–29 January 2026.