Why Change

The Why Change series explores the evolution of ethics and regulatory landscapes across the TRACE partner nations. Through the lens of change management storytelling, these articles highlight the strategic motivations behind shifting processes, demonstrating how modernizing governance and digital systems creates a more transparent, predictable, and efficient environment for clinical research.

Why Change: Revision of Nigeria’s National Code of Health Research Ethics (NCHRE) 2007

The National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) is Nigeria's body responsible for safeguarding the rights, safety, and well-being of research participants. With the growing diversity and volume of health research in the country, evidenced by the review of approximately 400 research protocols in 2025 alone, the national regulatory framework faced increasing pressure.

Why Change: Elevating Research Transparency in Zimbabwe

As a core partner of the TRACE initiative, Zimbabwe is moving beyond traditional oversight to establish a more visible and accountable research ecosystem. By modernizing its national approach to research ethics, the country is ensuring that its regulatory processes meet the highest international standards while remaining accessible to all stakeholders.