The general objective of the second programme of the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP2) is to contribute to the reduction of the social and economic burden of poverty-related infectious diseases in developing countries, in particular in sub-Saharan Africa, by accelerating the clinical development of effective, safe, accessible, suitable and affordable medical interventions. Enhanced networking between health research scientists and institutions in Africa, and equitable North-South collaborations are required to protect local innovations and reduce attrition in scientific leadership in sub-Saharan Africa.