ASLM recently sat down with Agnes Juru Chibango, Coordinator of the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory in Zimbabwe, to uncover how Zimbabwe is leveraging South-to-South learning to revolutionize its laboratory systems after a learning visit to Uganda.

ASLM: What were the gaps in your laboratory systems and network that you sought to address through the South-to-South learning?

Agnes: Through the ASLM Viral Load cascade self-assessment and LabNet assessment, we identified some challenges in equipment calibration and external quality assessment (EQA) participation at lower-tier facilities. We needed sustainable solutions to ensure quality improvements and maintain the credibility of our laboratory network.

ASLM: How did you go about securing funding to implement these changes?

Agnes: We strategically incor -porated these interventions into our national work plans and funding proposals, such as the The Global Fund’s Grant Cycle 7 (GC7) grant application and PEPFAR Country and Operational (COP)planning. Aligning these proposals with national health priorities was key in unlocking the necessary funding to bring our vision to life.

ASLM: What were the standout moments from your South-to-South learning experience?

Agnes: The experience was eye-opening! We learned that prioritizing interventions in a phased manner, starting with what is immediately feasible while working toward larger,

resource-intensive solutions is key in maximizing impact. A significant insight was that while we lacked in-house biomedical engineers, we could still move forward by focusing first on calibration and outsourcing repair services. This approach helped us stay efficient and proactive

ASLM: What tangible im-provements has Zimbabwe’s lab network achieved since the learning exchange?

Agnes: The transformation has been incredible! We can now calibrate essential laboratory equipment promptly, significantly strengthening our Quality  Management  Systems

(QMS). Moreover, EQA participation has increased substantially, bolstering our compliance with ISO 15189 standards. Expanding EQA participation has also improved diagnostic accuracy for crucial tests like Hepatitis, CD4, and TB Lipoarabinomannan test. (TB LAM)

ASLM: What advice would you give to other countries considering a South-to-South learning initiative?

Agnes: Dive in with confidence! The key is to start with evidence-based gap identification through assessments, integrate these insights into work plans, and secure funding through strategic proposals. Choosing the right mentor country and setting up a clear roadmap will help maximize the benefits of the learning exchange. Don’t be overwhelmed by what others have already achieved – start where you are, use what you have, and build from there. The impact will follow!