This publication showcases the ODIN project’s work in advancing environmental genomic surveillance across sub-Saharan Africa. The paper outlines how integrating metagenomics, wastewater surveillance, and mobile laboratory systems can enable near real-time detection of pathogens and generate actionable insights for public health decision-making.  

Through its implementation in countries including Tanzania, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, ODIN is demonstrating how genomic technologies can strengthen outbreak preparedness, improve detection of priority pathogens, and support monitoring of antimicrobial resistance. 

The work also highlights the importance of standardised protocols, data-sharing frameworks, and capacity building to ensure sustainable and locally led surveillance systems. 

This work reflects a strong partnership between African and European institutions, bringing together contributors from ODIN partner organisations across Africa and Europe, the GenEpi Network, Africa CDC, and national public health laboratories to strengthen genomic epidemiology capacity across Africa. 

The publication represents a significant milestone for the consortium and a step forward in building resilient, data-driven health systems across Africa. 

Read more: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanmic.2026.101426