Bissau, March 17–21, 2025 The West African Health Organization (WAHO), in collaboration with the Global Fund and the Pasteur Institute of Dakar, conducted a strategic mission in Guinea-Bissau from March 17 to 21, 2025. The primary objective of this initiative was to assess and strengthen the country's laboratory systems, thereby promoting significant advances in pub-lic health.
The WAHO delegation, composed of nine members, was wel- comed by Dr. Maimuna Baldé, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Health of Guinea-Bissau. Dur- ing the mission, the team visited existing laboratories to better understand their needs.
This mission is part of the "Strengthening Epidemiological Services and Health Systems in the ECOWAS Region" project (PROALAB), funded by the German government through the German Development Bank (KfW). This project covers 25 laboratories in nine West African coun-tries, including Guinea-Bissau, and focuses on strengthening diagnostic capacities, disease sur-veillance, and laboratory management.
The mission focused on five priority areas:
- Integrated Biological Sample Transport System (SITEB) – Integration and optimization of sample transport systems.
- Computerized Laboratory Management Systems (CLMS) – Improving interoperability and laboratory data efficiency.
- Quality Management System (QMS) – Implementing international standards for certifica-tion and accreditation.
- Biosafety and Biosecurity (B&B) – Strengthening biosafety protocols and practices
- Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) – Strengthening capacity for monitoring and responding toAMR threats
During this mission, several key activities were conducted:
- Presentation of innovative technological solutions such as the LabBook and WALIP plat-form, tools that modernize laboratory data management.
- Preparation of a framing workshop for the national implementation of SITEB using a One Health approach.
- Discussions on the adoption of ISO 35001 standards related to biosafety management, es-sential for the application of good laboratory practices.
- Meetings with national leaders and laboratory directors to promote strategic alignment and the adoption of robust and efficient laboratory systems.
Additionally, an intensive three-day training session was organized for local staff. The training focused on safe laboratory practices, quality management, and the use of new technologies. Through theoretical nd practical modules, participants gained the necessary skills to immedi-ately apply the knowledge and prepare their laboratories for future accreditation.
This mission resulted in specific recommendations and a detailed action plan, including concrete steps to strengthen laboratories in Guinea-Bissau. The training, technical evaluations, and meet-ings with partners and national authorities aim to align strategies with the country's needs.
Furthermore, the WAHO delegation visited relevant institutions, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), thus strengthening inter-institutional collaboration to improve the national health system.
With the support of the Pasteur Institute of Dakar, this mission marks a significant step forward for health security in the ECOWAS region