Two institutes from Ethiopia and China have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on scientific and technological cooperation in genomics and biotechnology.

The MoU inked by the Ethiopian Biotechnology Institute (EBTi) and Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI) in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa mainly aims at developing critical genomics infrastructure and building human capacity in the area.

The MoU seeks to promote information and knowledge sharing on joint research and development, while promoting establishment of research facilities and laboratory infrastructure.

Lack of equipped facilities and local expertise, and poor accessibility to research infrastructures are among challenges affecting genomics research in Ethiopia, and Africa in general.

The partnership is intended to benefit other national stakeholders, including graduate students and researchers.