ASLM’s Dr Diallo and Mr Mekonen participate in the 2nd annual meeting of the Regional Network of Reference Laboratories in 2022

In a groundbreaking move towards advancing healthcare standards in the West African region, the West African Health Organization (WAHO) and the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) have joined forces under a framework cooperation agreement funded by the Federal Republic of Germany, channeled through the KfW Development Bank, amounting to €210 210.

This collaborative effort aims to significantly improve the implementation and improvement of quality management systems (QMS) in laboratories across 15 member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The initiative is a pivotal component of the ‘West Africa Epidemiological Surveillance and Laboratory Systems  Strengthening Project’ (PROALAB), which is focused on fortifying the regional network of reference laboratories in nine key ECOWAS nations.

Key objectives of the partnership include assessing the current status of QMS implementation, conducting audits in 3-star to 5-star level laboratories, and providing technical assistance to achieve international accreditation standards via the Stepwise Laboratory Quality Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (SLIPTA). The targeted countries for this initiative include Burkina Faso, Niger, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and The Gambia.

ASLM and WAHO/PROLAB facilitators at an ISO 15189:2022 training workshop in 2023

ASLM, as a leading international non-profit organisation, will take the helm in various capacities, such as overseeing and monitoring the support provided by WAHO mentors, training laboratory professionals on the new version of ISO 15189:2022, conducting management and leadership training for senior staff and providing technical assistance and guidance during the implementation period.

The project’s significance lies in its comprehensive approach to not only enhancing the quality of laboratory services, but also to building sustainable capacity for continuous improvement. With the support of KfW Development Bank, the Federal Republic of Germany emphasises its commitment to health development in the West African region.

This collaboration signifies a pivotal moment for healthcare in West Africa. Strengthening laboratory standards and achieving international accreditation not only ensures the quality of diagnostics but also advances overall health outcomes in the region.

The collaborative efforts between WAHO and ASLM highlight a shared commitment to the well-being of West African populations. Through this partnership, both organisations aim to drive positive change, advocate for accreditation of reference laboratories, and contribute significantly to the advancement of healthcare across the ECOWAS region.