Geneva: FIND (www.FINDdx.org) recently convened Ambassadors from 26 African countries and the African Union at its Global Health Campus offices in Geneva. The gathering aimed to provide an overview of FIND’s work across the continent, highlight future opportunities, and establish FIND as an essential partner in diagnostics for these nations.
According to African Press Organization, the meeting underscored the importance of diagnostics as the foundation of effective health responses, from early detection to pandemic preparedness. Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO of FIND, emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering innovation and improving access to diagnostics in low- and middle-income countries through collaboration with the African Union.
FIND’s leadership showcased an updated strategic vision to enhance diagnostic systems, addressing potential health and pandemic challenges. This presentation served as a prelude to the upcoming Diagnostics Day event on 21 May, aligned with the World Health Assembly.
Ke
y conclusions from the meeting included a commitment to strengthen regional manufacturing of diagnostics and other health technologies, a consensus on increased AU-FIND cooperation focusing on country and Africa CDCs diagnostic priorities, and support for FIND as a technical partner to expand access to essential diagnostics for diseases like HIV, TB, malaria, mpox, and emerging outbreaks. Diagnostics were recognized as critical for health security and universal health coverage.
Dr. Ayoade Alakija, FIND’s Board Chair, noted that African leaders are rising to address the challenges posed by a turbulent world, particularly in the context of the continent’s significant health burden. FIND is dedicated to supporting these efforts by enhancing pandemic preparedness and ensuring quality diagnostics are accessible to all.
The Diagnostics Day event on 21 May at the Vieux Bois in Geneva will gather global health leaders to discuss strategies for ensuring quality and accessible diagnostics worldwide.