Release of genetically modified mosquitoes: a new step in the search for innovative tools to combat malaria in Africa

PRESS RELEASE

Bobo-Dioulasso, 13 August 2025

The Health Sciences Research Institute (IRSS) informs the public that on 11 August 2025, it released genetically modified male mosquitoes without gene drive in the village of Souroukoudingan, Karangasso Sambla department, Houet province, Guiriko region. This operation is part of research aimed at developing new methods of malaria control.

This research aims to evaluate the performance of genetic modification of mosquitoes as a potential tool for malaria control, in addition to existing methods (impregnated mosquito nets, insecticides, drugs, vaccines). It will also optimise the technical and operational capacities of the research team in the comprehensive management of this type of study. The genetic modification introduced should not persist in the local mosquito population or spread outside the release area.

This release was carried out after obtaining all the necessary national regulatory approvals:

• Authorisation from the National Biosafety Agency (ANB), the national authority responsible for regulating biotechnology and biosafety;
• Favourable opinion on environmental and social feasibility from the National Environmental Assessment Agency (ANEVE), the national authority responsible for environmental and social assessments;
• Approvals from the Ethics Committee for Health Research and the Institutional Ethics Committee of the IRSS.

In addition, community agreement was obtained from the inhabitants of Souroukoudingan, as well as individual consent from those participating in the research activities.

The release was carried out in full transparency under the supervision of the ANB, with the participation of ANEVE and in the presence of administrative, customary and religious authorities, representatives of civil society organisations, the monitoring committee, local communities and representatives of surrounding villages.

The IRSS wishes to reassure the communities at the study sites and the entire population of Burkina Faso that all its health research is conducted in strict compliance with the regulatory, ethical and professional standards in force in Burkina Faso and in accordance with international standards. Each stage of the work is subject to authorisation by the competent national authorities, favourable opinions from ethics committees and rigorous supervision to ensure the safety of the population and the protection of the environment. The IRSS remains firmly committed to conducting its activities with transparency, scientific integrity and social responsibility in order to maintain the trust of communities and contribute to the sustainable improvement of public health.

As a public research institute, the IRSS is committed to promoting scientific and health development in Burkina Faso, consolidating national sovereignty in research and expertise, and offering innovative and reliable solutions to health problems.

The Director of the IRSS

Dr Lazare BELEMNABA