MGI Tech Co., Ltd., a company specializing in life sciences and core technologies, has announced two major advancements in African genomics. These include the introduction of the first DNBSEQ-T7 sequencing system in Africa, now installed at the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MGI, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), and the SAMRC. This MoU marks the start of the 110,000 human genome initiative in South Africa. These steps represent significant progress toward sustainable genomics research in Africa. They also support Africa’s ability to contribute genetic data to global science while developing its own research models, innovations, and strategies.
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Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, CEO and President of the SAMRC, highlighted that this partnership is a strategic move to build local capabilities and provide affordable sequencing facilities. He added that working with MGI improves affordability, scalability, and sustainability, allowing South Africa to perform genomic studies on a national level. The newly installed DNBSEQ-T7 at the SAMRC Genomics Center in Cape Town operates at ultra-high speed, producing large datasets quickly and accurately. This system supports extensive studies and multi-omics research while drastically reducing sequencing costs and increasing access across Africa.
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The SAMRC Genomics Platform has a long history of supporting precision medicine in South Africa and beyond as a center for research, innovation, and training. It develops tools tailored for African genetic diversity, mentors local researchers, and creates full workflows for regional applications. With the addition of the DNBSEQ-T7, the platform’s capabilities have greatly improved. So far, the platform has sequenced 96 lion genomes, 168 low-coverage human genomes, and 9 high-coverage genomes from patients with rare conditions.
The 110K Human Genome Program, a joint effort by SAMRC, DSTI, and MGI, aims to address the lack of African representation in global genomic data. The program will sequence 110,000 South African genomes and create a national reference database. Glaudina Loots, Director for Health Innovation at DSTI, said that the collaboration advances South Africa’s goals in precision medicine and health innovation by combining infrastructure development, standardized pricing, and capacity building. She also mentioned the potential for shared funding through initiatives like BRICS and China-Africa science partnerships.
In its initial phase, the program will sequence up to 10,000 human genomes and set the foundation for the first African Genome Reference. This resource will help researchers and healthcare professionals understand genetic diversity, improve disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment for populations across the continent. Duncan Yu, President of MGI Tech, explained that progress in genomics comes from partnerships, not just products. He expressed pride in working with SAMRC and DSTI on the 110K genome initiative and bringing the DNBSEQ-T7 to Cape Town. By making high-throughput sequencing available locally, MGI is helping turn bold ideas into real-world impact, allowing African genomic research to chart its own path and support a strong, inclusive ecosystem for precision medicine across Africa.
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