The Chief Executive Officer of African Society for Laboratory Medicine’s (ASLM), Nqobile Ndlovu, has urged African nations to invest in research and development in medical diagnostics laboratories.

Ndlovu emphasised the importance of this during an online interview with journalist from the centre of the inaugural ASLM Diagnostics Convention 2024 in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.

Ndlovu stressed that African countries need to devote resources to research in medical diagnostics to tackle health challenges and pandemics.

He highlighted that advanced countries have made significant advancements in medical diagnostics through research and development.

Ndlovu also acknowledged that some African countries like Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Morocco have made efforts to manufacture diagnostics, making the continent self-sufficient.

However, he pointed out that there are still challenges to address, including infrastructure for effective testing, funding for modern equipment and technologies, regulatory impediments, and workforce issues.

Ndlovu appealed to the media to join the advocacy efforts to educate African communities about the value of medical diagnostics laboratories.

ASLM’s convention 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.

The convention aims to transform diagnostic systems in Africa by harnessing innovation and quality assurance to elevate equity and excellence.