Science Café: From Africa’s Microbes to Planetary Health

Africa, which its rich biodiversity and diverse populations, is home to unique microbiomes which may hold the key to groundbreaking discoveries in health and disease. Engela Duvenage explores what a microbiome is – and why one research group is embarking on an ambitious plan to sequence 10 million African-origin samples, ranging from rivers and wastewater treatment plants to young children in vulnerable communities, and even Antarctica. These microorganisms are the invisible threads that connect us all.

Science Café Stellenbosch is an initiative of the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University. Entrance is free.