The African Clinical Research Network (ACRN)

The Africa Clinical Research Network (ACRN) was founded in 2024 in Zimbabwe by one of Africa’s most prominent scientists, Dr. Tariro Makadzange. In 2021, Dr. Makadzange established the Mutala Trust as an independent, African-led research organization. Originally named “Mutala” – meaning “to study” in Arabic and also the name of a Zambian stream – the name was chosen to symbolize the flow and expansion of knowledge, reflecting the collaborative nature of the organization.

The Africa Clinical Research Network (ACRN) Foundation is dedicated to strengthening and expanding a continent-wide network of clinical trial sites equipped to conduct high-quality, globally competitive research. Our mission is to empower network and affiliate sites to lead rigorous, ethical, and impactful clinical trials across all phases and therapeutic areas – addressing Africa’s most urgent healthcare challenges.

Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, we collaborate with African institutions to uphold the highest standards of scientific excellence while fostering long-term sustainability. By embedding resilience and self-sufficiency into research ecosystems, we enable our partners to drive medical innovation that serves communities across the continent.