Knowledge Extraction and Local Utilization of Clinical Trial Evidence in Uganda: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Keywords
Local Utilization
Clinical Trial Evidence
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction
The globalization of clinical research has increased trial activity in Africa, including Uganda, yet concerns persist about unequal knowledge flows. Evidence generated in African settings is often analysed and published in Northern institutions, limiting local access and utilization.
Objectives
To assess knowledge extraction and local utilization of clinical trial evidence in Uganda.
Methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis of trial registrations and publications used databases and bibliometric sources. The knowledge value chain from registration to application was analysed. The primary outcome was the knowledge-return ratio, measuring locally applied evidence.
Results
Seventy-two percent of data were analysed in Northern institutions, 65 percent of publications were paywalled, and only 18 percent were implemented locally.
Discussion
Findings indicate persistent imbalance and limited translation into Ugandan healthcare.
References
References
Chan, A. W., Song, F., Vickers, A., Jefferson, T., Dickersin, K., Gøtzsche, P. C., … & van der Worp, H. B. (2014). Increasing value and reducing waste: addressing inaccessible research. The Lancet, 383(9913), 257–266.
Okeke, I. N., Babalola, C. P., Byarugaba, D. K., Djimde, A., & Osoniyi, O. R. (2022). Broadening participation in the biomedical sciences: African perspectives. Nature Medicine, 28(1), 10–12.
UNAIDS. (2021). Open access to scientific knowledge and equitable research dissemination. Geneva: Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adrine Nyamwiza
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