FIND Engages African Union Ambassadors to Advance Diagnostic Access and Pandemic Preparedness
FIND, the global alliance for diagnostics, hosted Ambassadors from 26 African countries and the African Union at its headquarters in Geneva as part of a strategic initiative to strengthen diagnostic systems across the continent.
The meeting aimed to reinforce FIND’s commitment to equitable access to diagnostics and served as a precursor to the upcoming Diagnostics Day event on May 21.
The Ambassadors were briefed on FIND’s work in their respective countries, including support for early disease detection, pandemic preparedness, and efforts to bridge testing gaps for both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO of FIND, emphasized the importance of diagnostics in achieving health equity, noting that, “From early detection to pandemic preparedness, our collaboration with the African Union is essential to guaranteeing that no one is left behind.”
The high-level dialogue focused on a range of key priorities, such as South-South cooperation, strengthening regional diagnostic manufacturing, sustainable financing, and integrating diagnostics into national health development strategies.
The meeting emphasized diagnostics as a cornerstone of universal health coverage and health security, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
A consensus emerged on enhancing FIND’s collaboration with Africa CDC and AU member states to align with national diagnostic priorities. Additionally, Ambassadors backed FIND’s role as a technical partner in tackling diseases like HIV, TB, malaria, mpox, and emerging health threats.
Dr. Ayoade Alakija, Chair of the FIND Board, highlighted the significance of African leadership in addressing global health challenges. “African leaders are stepping up to fill the power vacuum left by a world in turmoil where women and children are being left behind,” she said. “FIND will continue to support them on strengthening pandemic preparedness and ensuring quality diagnostics are available to all.”
The event precedes FIND’s Diagnostics Day, scheduled for May 21 at the Vieux Bois in Geneva, which will convene global health leaders to map out next steps in delivering accessible and high-quality diagnostics worldwide.
