It was a great opportunity representing the Division of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology at the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) in Saly, Senegal at the West African Regional Meeting on Laboratory Strengthening and Infectious Disease Surveillance.

The West African region faces significant challenges in combating endemic and emerging infectious diseases, and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. These challenges stem from various factors, including limited access to quality diagnostics, fragmented governance of the laboratory sector, and inadequate health systems for early detection and response among others. Shortages of qualified staff, infrastructure deficiencies, and regulatory gaps further exacerbate the situation, highlighting the need for comprehensive interventions.

To address some of these pressing issues in the ECOWAS region, the West African Health Organization (WAHO), in collaboration with Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) and the Global Fund, organized a 3-day technical workshop aimed to strengthen laboratory systems across the region and bolster disease surveillance and response activities.