In October 2025, Africa CDC published the newly developed framework for GIS mapping of laboratory systems and network capacities across Africa for publication. Developed in collaboration with the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) and Member States, the framework seeks to sustain and optimize laboratory and information-sharing systems, enabling earlier disease detection and more effective surveillance of public health threats.

The framework sets out four phases: data collection and training, data validation and utilization, implementation of workplans, and sustainability through integration into national structures. It emphasizes using LabMap data to inform policies such as National Essential Diagnostic Lists and laboratory strategic plans, grant proposals requests, advocate for resources, strengthen real-time disease surveillance and response, optimize diagnostic networks, and improve specimen referral and sample transportation systems. Achieving these goals will require commitment from Africa CDC, ASLM, Member States, partners, and donors to adopt standardized and sustainable data management solutions, share insights across sectors, mobilize resources, and update data annually to track progress.