Geneva: FIND (www.FINDdx.org) hosted Ambassadors from 26 African countries and the African Union at its Global Health Campus offices in Geneva to discuss its work in diagnostics, future prospects, and the value it adds as a partner in the region. The gathering aimed to highlight FIND’s role in diagnostics, a fundamental aspect of health responses from early detection to pandemic preparedness.

According to African Press Organization, FIND’s CEO, Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the African Union to ensure no one is left behind. FIND’s vision focuses on catalyzing innovation and ensuring access to diagnostics in low- and middle-income countries. The meeting also saw the presentation of FIND’s updated strategic vision, which serves as a precursor to the upcoming Diagnostics Day event on 21 May during the World Health Assembly.

Key conclusions from the meeting included a commitment to strengthen regional manufacturing of diagnostics and health technologies, increased coopera
tion between AU and FIND concerning country and Africa CDC diagnostic priorities, and support for FIND’s role as a technical partner. Diagnostics were recognized as essential to health security and universal health coverage.

Dr. Ayoade Alakija, FIND’s Board Chair, remarked on the changing global landscape and the responsibility of African leaders to address the continent’s substantial health burden. She reaffirmed FIND’s commitment to supporting pandemic preparedness and ensuring access to quality diagnostics.

The Diagnostics Day event in Geneva on 21 May will convene global health leaders to discuss next steps in making diagnostics more accessible and ensuring quality for all.