Ayda Bennour, Haifa El Mabrouk, Rakia Mardessi, Hamza Chouk, Siwar Hichri, Narjes Trabelsi, Khouloud Rjiba, Nouha Jendoubi, Cherine Charfeddine, Dorra H'mida
The inaugural Congress of the Tunisian Society of Human Genomics (TSHG) was held from October 17 to 19, 2024, in Sousse, Tunisia, under the theme "Genomics for a Sustainable Healthcare System". This landmark event aimed to address the rapid advancements and ethical challenges in North Africa's genomic landscape. The congress convened an international assembly of researchers, clinicians, and policymakers. The scientific program featured plenary lectures, keynote presentations, and specialized workshops focused on integrating genomic medicine into national healthcare frameworks. Key discussions centered on emerging sequencing technologies, the ethical imperatives of informed consent, and data privacy in the era of big data. Specialized sessions highlighted population genomics insights derived from Tunisian cohorts, emphasizing rare diseases and cancer genetics. Workshops provided practical training in bioinformatic data analysis and genetic counseling standards. The meeting successfully established a strategic roadmap for advancing personalized medicine in Tunisia. By fostering multidisciplinary collaborations and setting the stage for broader international participation, the TSHG has laid the foundation for sustainable genomic research and clinical application in the region.