The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), convened a two-day Laboratory Annual Progress Review Meeting at the Sierra on 6th -7th December at the Sierra Palms Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown. This high-level engagement brought together key stakeholders from across the public health landscape to assess the performance of the national laboratory system over the past year. The review aimed to evaluate laboratory operations, analyze results, and generate actionable insights to inform evidence-based policy decisions. It also served as a platform to celebrate achievements, identify persistent challenges, and chart a strategic course for the future.
Throughout the year under review, public health laboratories in Sierra Leone made notable strides in strengthening diagnostic capacity and enhancing disease surveillance. These included the expansion of laboratory infrastructure, upgrades in equipment, and the introduction of advanced molecular testing and rapid diagnostics. Improvements in turnaround time for critical tests significantly supported timely public health interventions, while the successful implementation of quality assurance programs ensured the reliability of laboratory results.
A highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Madam Doris Harding, Laboratory Manager and Lead, who offered a comprehensive overview of the laboratory network’s progress over the years. She emphasized the expanded diagnostic capabilities now available across the country, including the ability to test for a wide range of infectious diseases such as Lassa fever, COVID-19, tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis, and other emerging threats. Madam Harding also spoke in detail about the growing capacity to detect antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in both humans and animals. This development, she noted, is critical for informing treatment protocols and protecting public health, as it enables early detection of resistant pathogens and supports the development of national AMR strategies.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mohamed Alex Vandi, Deputy Executive Director of NPHA, who began by extending apologies on behalf of the Executive Director, Professor Foday Sahr, noting that he was unavoidably absent due to competing national engagements. Dr. Vandi underscored the indispensable role of laboratories in public're health emergencies, stating, “In the face of an outbreak, laboratories are not optional, they are essential. They provide the evidence that guides surveillance, informs case management, and shapes our national response. Without strong labs, we are flying blind.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration between laboratory services, surveillance systems, and clinical care, highlighting that integrated efforts are vital for effective disease control. “When labs, surveillance, and case management work hand in hand,” he said, “we not only detect threats earlier, we respond smarter, faster, and with greater impact.” He concluded his remarks by expressing deep appreciation to all partners and stakeholders, acknowledging their unwavering support in strengthening Sierra Leone’s laboratory systems.
International partners echoed this sentiment. Madam Monique Foster CDC Country Representative, praised the collaborative efforts that have led to measurable improvements in surveillance, diagnostics, and workforce development. Dr. Yao of Africa CDC emphasized that health security is a continental priority and affirmed Africa CDC’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s laboratory transformation and emergency preparedness. Dr. Haimo Shein from China CDC reaffirmed China’s dedication to global cooperation in combating emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance biosafety and research capacity in Sierra Leone.
Despite these gains, several challenges continue to hinder optimal performance. These include limited funding for advanced technologies and reagents, a shortage of skilled laboratory personnel in specialized areas, inconsistent supply chains for essential commodities, and gaps in data integration across health systems. These constraints have affected the full realization of some goals, such as scaling up genomic sequencing and expanding regional laboratory coverage.
To address these issues, the meeting outlined a series of strategic interventions. These include strengthening resource mobilization through innovative financing and expanded partnerships, investing in workforce development through training and mentorship, optimizing supply chain systems, and accelerating the adoption of digital laboratory information systems to enable real-time data sharing and decision-making.
Looking ahead, the NPHA presented a forward-looking roadmap to guide laboratory operations in the coming year. Priorities include expanding laboratory coverage to underserved regions, introducing next-generation diagnostic technologies, implementing a national laboratory workforce development plan, and fostering research and innovation to address emerging public health priorities.
This annual review is more than a technical exercise; it is a national imperative. For the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, it provides critical insights to guide policy and resource allocation. For the NPHA, it reinforces its mandate to lead with evidence and accountability. For laboratory professionals, it is a moment of recognition and renewal. And for Sierra Leone as a whole, it signals a steadfast commitment to building a resilient, responsive, and future-ready public health system, one where laboratories stand as the backbone of disease prevention, detection, and response.
Rachael A. Kuyembeh Public Relations Coordinator
Public Relations Unit
NPHA SL