Juliet Jacob 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) has launched the SAFIRE trial to test malaria therapies in early pregnancy, a group long excluded from clinical studies.
MMV said malaria in pregnancy causes nearly 20% of stillbirths in sub-Saharan Africa. The trial seeks to find safe, effective treatments for expectant mothers.
Co-principal investigator from Burkina Faso’s Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Dr Innocent Valea, said formative research shaped culturally sensitive recruitment.
“It helps us design messages that respect local beliefs and build trust,” Valea noted.
The SAFIRE trial, involving multiple African research centres, could close a major research gap and save countless lives.
MMV said community engagement remains crucial to ensure participation and long-term impact.
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Otamere Gladness 
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