The Africa Health Research Forum (AfHRF) aims to represent the African voice in health research in the continent and internationally; to serve as a platform for accelerating health research development in the African continent and in making the region an effective partner in the global health research system. The Forum's present activities include analytical work involving studies on regional health research networks, analysis of South-South and North-South collaborations and the documentation of existing national health research mechanisms. Flagship projects include the establishment of a clearing house by developing regional databases, situation analysis of ethical review systems and activities focused on leadership development in health research. The Forum also conducts a communication and advocacy programme to raise visibility of AfHRF, stimulate stakeholder participation and inform target audiences, including the various national stakeholder groups, regional political and economic organisations, civil society groups and international organisations. Activities of the forum aim to represent the African voice in health research in the continent and internationally; development of a health research policy framework for accelerated development; strengthening health research networking in the region; providing technical support to countries; conducting analytical work to support health research development; promoting effective collaboration with partners and funding of local research priorities; enhancing effective research communication; and promoting ethics in research and development of health research leadership. In terms of collaboration, AfHRF works closely with policy makers and civil society at national, regional and global levels. At the National level this includes relevant ministries, programme implementers, directors of national programmes, non-governmental organisations, researchers, parliamentarians, universities and research institutes. AfHRF is also forging linkages with organisations which include the African Union (AU), World Health Organisation (WHO), African Regional Offices, NGOs and regional inter-governmental organisations working in health and other development areas with a bearing on health research. Initial funding has been provided by the Council on Health Research for Development (COHRED) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC-Canada). For more information contact Prof. M.Mugambi Secretary, AfHRF P.O. Box 267 Meru, Kenya Tel: 254-164-30301, 30367 Fax: 254-164-30162 Email: mugambi@africaonline.co.ke