In Congo, we are probably at the stage where Germany was about 25 years ago. The difficulties start with the Internet, which does not work well. Cong… - Francine Ntoumi

The dynamism of research is assessed by indicators such as publications and patents. With regard to biomedical research, which is my field, the African continent bears the heaviest burden of disease in the world, but it is also the continent that invests the least in research, development and innovation.

Raised in a family of six children, being the only girl and the eldest facing a demanding father, I learned competition and above all to never feel diminished because I was a woman.

The level is very high and I do there what I cannot achieve in Congo. Both parties benefit from this close cooperation because the Institute obviously does not have direct access to tropical diseases and the required samples.