Djeneba B. Fofana is a young Malian microbiologist interested in infectious diseases, in particular HIV and hepatitis viruses. In Africa, viral hepatitis remains a neglected infection despite its high prevalence in this part of the world. Very few people know their HBV status, even among people living with HIV, where these infections can increase the risk of comorbidity. She is working on increasing access to biological assays, in diagnostic laboratories’ capacities, assisting with preparedness for emerging viral diseases in West Africa.