Episode
How To Build Trust and Engage Patients in African Clinical Trials with Dr Sam Mbunya
- Published
- Jun 16, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1709
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Summary
Discover how global sponsors and CROs can optimize clinical trial outsourcing and patient engagement in Africa by addressing cultural, operational, and regulatory complexities from day one. Guest Dr. Sam Mbunya Global Patient Advocate; Consultant in Patient Education, Advocacy & Program Management Focus: Sickle cell disease, hemophilia, rare blood disorders, and cancer in African regions Based in Malmö, Sweden; Active in global project collaborations (US, Kenya, African universities) Episode Overview This session, recorded live at COG Nordics, features a practical fireside chat with Dr. Sam Mbunya—an experienced patient advocate and program consultant—exploring the real-world nuances of launching and sustaining clinical trial operations in Africa. The discussion moves beyond broad generalizations, highlighting how local context, community trust, and operational diligence are critical in clinical trial outsourcing and CRO selection for African sites. Key topics include the operational and cultural barriers sponsors often overlook, such as health literacy, transport, family decision dynamics, and the legacy of previous studies. Dr. Mbunya outlines best practices for early and ongoing engagement with patient groups, community leaders, and local health systems, emphasizing why these steps are essential for both participant protection and long-term study viability. Listeners working in clinical operations, clinical trial outsourcing, and CRO/vendor management will find actionable strategies for designing studies that respect local realities. The conversation also explores how partnerships, clear communication, and data stewardship can help sponsors and CROs avoid common pitfalls and deliver on inclusion goals—turning compliance into true community impact and clinical st…