Research data management and sharing represent fundamental pillars of modern scientific inquiry, enabling researchers to effectively collect, organise, preserve, and disseminate their findings with precision and transparency. As global health challenges grow increasingly complex, the ability to properly manage and share research data becomes critical for advancing scientific knowledge and developing evidence-based solutions. In West Africa, where limited resources and infrastructure often constrain research capacity, strengthening these capabilities is particularly crucial for addressing the region's unique health challenges, building self-reliance in research, and ensuring that African-generated data benefits local populations.  

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen research capacity and improve health outcomes across West Africa, the training held at the PMRTC in Bamako brought together 20 Data Managers and 10 researchers from 13 research institutions and universities across West Africa. Designed to provide a comprehensive and foundational study of best practices in Research Data Management and Data Sharing, the training, funded by the Gates Foundation, sought to contribute toward ensuring that research conducted across West Africa meets international standards and contributes meaningfully to addressing regional health challenges.  

According to Badou Gaye, Head of IT at MRCG, the programme provided a valuable platform for Data Managers within the WANETAM network to acquire essential tools and skillsets necessary for collecting and providing high-quality health research data. “It will ensure that the data managed at their institutions adhere to the Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability (FAIR) principles and is ready to be shared in compliance with ethical guidelines and data privacy standards,” he said. 

Covering a wide range of essential topics, from developing data management plans to identifying required data elements, final steps at database lock, data curation, and data sharing protocols, participants were introduced to the Data Management Life Cycle, learning crucial skills such as developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), implementing data security and privacy measures, and applying data anonymisation techniques. The sessions also emphasised the significance of documentation on governance structures and protocols for preparing data for sharing while maintaining data integrity, accuracy, and completeness.  

For Mareme Seye Thiam, a Data Analyst from Institut Pasteur de Dakar, the training provided clear, practical strategies for organising, documenting, and sharing data more effectively. “As someone who works with large and complex datasets, I particularly appreciate the focus on metadata standards and the FAIR principles, ensuring that data is Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable,” she said.   

By equipping participants with the tools to implement strong data management plans, promote ethical data sharing, and enhance data quality and transparency, the training is expected to enhance how data is managed at the participating institutions. Thus, it will promote more efficient data analysis, foster collaboration, and contribute to robust and impactful research outcomes. 

Rahman Monsur Olanrewaju from the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, commended the MRCG and WANETAM for the quality of the training. “It was both highly educational and comprehensive. The facilitators did an excellent job delivering the content with clarity and expertise,” he said. According to him, the lessons learned from the workshop will enhance his approach to data management back home. 

By strengthening data management capabilities at key research sites and providing researchers with practical skills in data management and sharing, MRCG is supporting the establishment of a critical foundation for high-quality, data-driven research that addresses priority health challenges in the region.