AVAREF Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is AVAREF and how is it related to WHO?
A. AVAREF was founded by the WHO in 2006 to serve as a platform for connecting National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) and National Ethics Committees (ECs) across Africa, committing to build technical, institutional, and professional capacity through collaborative broad partnerships and harmonization...
Q. How is AVAREF managed?
A. AVAREF has four bodies that manage its strategic and operational functions: The AVAREF Assembly, AVAREF Steering Committee, AVAREF Technical Coordination Committee, and the AVAREF Secretariat...
Q. Who funds AVAREF?
A. AVAREF is currently funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Previous funding has come from the European Union, the Government of Canada, and in-kind support from various partners...
Q. Which countries are members of AVAREF?
A. All 55 African countries are eligible to become members of AVAREF, provided they commit to subscribe to its principles and goals...
Q. How does a country benefit by being part of AVAREF?
A. Countries benefit from information, scientific knowledge, training, and best practices that help them make informed decisions regarding authorization and inspection of clinical trials...