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Approximately 80 million people live with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in the WHO Africa Region. The natural history of HBV infection in this population is poorly characterized, and may differ from patterns observed elsewhere due to differences in prevailing genotypes, environmental exposures, co-infections, and host genetics. Existing research is largely drawn from small, singlecentre cohorts, with limited follow-up time. The Hepatitis B in Africa collaborative network (HEPSANET) was established in 2022 to harmonize the process of ongoing data collection, analysis, and dissemination from 13 collaborating HBV cohorts in eight African countries. Research priorities for the next five years were agreed through a modified Delphi survey prior to baseline data analysis being conducted. Baseline data on 4173 participants with chronic HBV mono-infection were collected, of whom 38.3% were women and median age was 34 years (interquartile range 28-42).81.3% of cases were identified through testing of asymptomatic individuals. HBeAg positivity was seen in 9.6% of participants. Follow-up of HEPSANET participants will generate evidence to improve the diagnosis and management of HBV in this region.

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