The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) and The Aga Khan University (AKU) in Arusha, Tanzania, will host the first International Symposium on Artemisia from October 8-10, 2025.
This landmark event will bring together over 200 leading researchers, physicians, veterinarians, agronomists, and policymakers from around the world to explore the diverse applications of Artemisia annua and Artemisia afra in human health, animal health, and environmental sustainability.
Rooted in the AKF and AKU’s commitment to improving quality of life and fostering resilience in communities worldwide, this symposium aims to unlock the potential of Artemisia as a One Health plant—addressing the interconnected health of people, animals, and the environment. The event is organised by the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS), the world’s leading scientific society dedicated to advancing research on plants, in partnership with the AKF, AKU and La Maison de l’Artemisia.
Artemisia has garnered significant attention in scientific literature across a diverse range of sectors. In the realm of human health, its properties are being explored for various applications, including its well-established antimalarial and antiviral effects, alongside emerging research into its potential in treating diseases such as schistosomiasis, tuberculosis, bilharzia, and diabetes.
Furthermore, Artemisia is being investigated for its benefits in animal health, offering natural alternatives to traditional antibiotics for livestock, notably demonstrating anticoccidial effects in poultry. Beyond health applications, Artemisia also holds promise in environmental sustainability, with numerous uses being explored in bio-control and as a bio-fungicide.
By convening some of the world’s top experts, the symposium will explore how Artemisia can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future—in line with AKF and AKU’s vision of promoting long-term well-being for communities globally.
“The International Symposium on Artemisia represents a pivotal moment in advancing research and collaboration around this remarkable plant,” says Didier Van Bignoot, AKF’s Global Advisor for Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Resilience. “By bringing together global experts across multiple disciplines, we aim to unlock the full potential of Artemisia in improving human and animal health while promoting environmental sustainability. This event underscores AKF’s commitment to fostering innovative, community-driven solutions for a healthier and more resilient future.”
With its state-of-the-art research facilities and a strong focus on climate resilience and sustainable agriculture, the AKU’s Arusha Climate and Environmental Research Centre (AKU-ACER) is uniquely positioned to host this event.
"As the co-convener of the inaugural International Artemisia Symposium," says Emmanuel Sulle, Assistant Professor and Director of AKU-ACER, "I am thrilled to bring together scientists and practitioners from around the world, united by their passion to explore the enormous potential of artemisia as a One Health plant. This is a critical moment, as we face pressing climate and environmental challenges that call for bold, collaborative action."
As a living laboratory, AKU-ACER provides excellent experiential learning ecosystem based on an inclusive co-creation and co-implementation model, integrating research, innovation, and training in a natural and context-specific setting.
Keynote speakers will present on the latest developments in Artemisia research, including its pharmacological properties, agricultural applications, and potential to transform health outcomes in low-resource settings.
“We are delighted to convene the world’s first International Symposium on Artemisia at the Aga Khan University’s Principal Campus Arusha,” says Arnaud Nouvion, the co-convener of the Symposium. “This symposium will serve as a platform for cutting-edge research, transdisciplinary dialogue, and global partnerships, paving the way for Artemisia-based solutions that address some of today’s most pressing health and environmental challenges. We look forward to welcoming researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to this landmark gathering.”
