ASLM 2024 special convention to drive transformative advances in African diagnostic systems

The African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) is hosting its first-ever ASLM Diagnostics Convention 2024, themed, “Transforming Diagnostic Systems in Africa: Harnessing Innovation and Quality Assurance to Elevate Equity and Excellence.”

Taking place at Radisson Blu in Abidjan, the event has brought together over 300 health leaders, policymakers, laboratory professionals, researchers, civil society, and industry partners to address critical challenges and innovations in diagnostics across Africa.

In response to the growing need for robust diagnostic networks amid global health emergencies, infectious disease outbreaks, and increasing healthcare demands, the convention aims to chart a transformative course for diagnostic systems on the continent.

Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, ASLM seeks to align African diagnostics with global health priorities, including Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Key topics on the agenda include enhancing the efficiency and reach of diagnostic services, improving access to timely and accurate testing, and discussing new technologies that streamline testing processes.

Participants will also delve into building reliable, long-term support systems for diagnostics and explore advanced tools like pathogen genomics and bioinformatics, crucial for disease tracking and health security.

A dedicated Ministers’ Panel will convene senior government officials to share national strategies for strengthening diagnostic capacity and advancing health equity through leadership.

The convention will also honor global health advocates for their commitment to promoting laboratory services and diagnostics in Africa.

The Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine, emphasised the essential role of diagnostics in Africa’s healthcare future, noting that investments in resilient, quality-assured laboratory networks will better equip countries to address health threats.

Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Health, Pierre Dimba, affirmed that the vision is to make diagnostics accessible to everyone, at every level of the healthcare system, and sees the convention as a crucial step toward this goal.

Liberia’s Deputy Director for Technical Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Jonathan Kpaka, highlighted that cross-sector collaboration is essential for tackling health challenges.

He said the convention offers an ideal platform to forge partnerships that will elevate diagnostic standards and accessibility.

The Chief Executive Officer of ASLM, Mr. Nqobile Ndlovu, noted that this convention marks a milestone in uniting Africa’s health leaders to strengthen diagnostic systems vital for equitable and high-quality healthcare.

“By bringing together the region’s policymakers, laboratory experts, civil society, and development partners, we aim to develop sustainable strategies to make diagnostics a cornerstone of resilient health systems in Africa,” Ndlovu stated.

The convention is expected to yield significant outcomes, including ensuring laboratory services are integral to national health planning, creating a roadmap for scaling diagnostics to meet international standards.

It is also expected to foster cross-sector partnerships, and generating policy recommendations and actionable insights for sustainable diagnostic solutions in African health systems.

Supported by leading global health organisations and private sector partners, the event underscores a collective commitment to bridging the diagnostic gap and ensuring access to essential diagnostic services for all.