The Jimma University Clinical Trial Unit (JUCTU) was founded in 2013 to facilitate clinical research, initially on a Phase III inpatient trial assessing the efficacy and safety of antimalarial drug, single-dose radical cure treatment for the radical cure of Plasmodium vivax. Subsequently, JUCTU conducted validation of point-of-care testing for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. These two interventions were later endorsed by the World Health Organization in 2025 for the management of Plasmodium vivax malaria. Over time, JUCTU has conducted Phase II–IV clinical trials, diagnostic test validations and cohort studies. JUCTU also supports clinical services through its core facilities, offers training and mentorship to strengthen clinical research, and creates a platform for community engagement and evidence translation.
Jimma University has designated space for JUCTU within the premises of Jimma Medical Center, a referral hospital serving a catchment area of 20 million individuals in southwest Ethiopia. Furthermore, a satellite clinical trial site was established at Agaro Hospital, with the support of the Medical University of Vienna and Medicines for Malaria Venture.
Through collaboration with national and international partners, the unit has established dedicated clinical facilities, developed advanced laboratory capabilities and trained research personnel to support diverse clinical studies. JUCTU also supports training and capacity building by hosting students and collaborating with partner institutions on postgraduate research programs. JUCTU promotes clinical trials in Ethiopia and actively supports the development of a robust clinical trial ecosystem in the country. These efforts aim to advance the development of an accessible and affordable diagnostics and treatments in low- and middle-income countries and beyond. JUCTU is committed to elevating the quality of clinical services and advancing community health outcomes by generating robust evidence and supporting its effective translation into practice.