Table 3

Main functions of research ethics committees in countries that reported their existence

Functions
Percentage (Frequency)

Review and approve all research protocols on human subjects
100% (18/18)
Ensure that projects sponsored by external donors are submitted for approval to ethical clearance committee of the initiating country
5% (1/18)
Build the capacity of institutional and regional ethical clearance committees
11% (2/18)
Give clearance for export of samples or specimens for research related to human health
5% (1/18)
Coordinating and promoting research
22% (4/18)

Kirigia et al. BMC Medical Ethics 2005 6:10   doi:10.1186/1472-6939-6-10