About Us

THE CHALLENGE

Why This Work Cannot Wait

Neonatal Mortality

Africa has seen no progress in reducing neonatal mortality over the last three decades. Over one million newborns die in Africa yearly, with four African countries leading in neonatal deaths.

Global Pressures
  • Rapid urbanisation leading to overcrowding in birthing facilities.
  • Skyrocketing population growth — by 2054, 4 in every 10 babies born globally will be African.
The Sepsis Challenge

Despite advances in early neonatal care, many babies are lost later to sepsis. Sepsis remains a significant and underrecognised cause of neonatal deaths.

Main Causes of Neonatal Death

Prematurity, infections, and asphyxia are the three leading causes. 80% of deaths occur in preterm babies, with around 750,000 of these occurring in the postnatal phase.

Antibiotic Resistance

Resistance to primary antibiotics — ampicillin and gentamicin — is growing, directly complicating treatment for neonatal sepsis across the region.

Data Shortage

As of 2018, no African country had population-level data on neonatal sepsis — due to limited laboratory access, poor healthcare infrastructure, and challenges in data harmonisation.

NEONET AFRICA

Our Objectives & Focus Areas

Objectives

  1. Understand the epidemiology and pathogenesis of neonatal pathogens.
  2. Consolidate a library of datasets for research.
  3. Support emerging researchers and clinicians.
  4. Address key research questions and develop locally driven research.

Four Primary Areas of Focus

  1. Establish research priorities for maternal and neonatal infection.
  2. Enable effective data sharing.
  3. Collect and manage bacterial isolates effectively.
  4. Develop local capacity and training opportunities.