The African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Illumina, an American company, aimed at leveraging genomics for enhanced diagnostic services in Africa.

The MOU is expected to expand the capacity of laboratory systems and diagnostics services on the continent, contributing to improved healthcare delivery.

According to Tom Berkovits, Senior Director of Marketing for Asia, the Middle East, and Africa at Illumina, the partnership will focus on building capacity and deploying sequencing technology to enhance surveillance of emerging disease outbreaks.

The initiative aims to establish a comprehensive framework covering logistics, pricing, service, support, and training to facilitate the coordinated use of genomics in bolstering health systems and global health security.

Berkovits emphasized that the sequencing technology would aid in tracking viruses, including mutations, without the need to import such technology into Africa.

The collaboration is expected to provide increased access to equipment, reagents, and therapies for patients.

CEO of ASLM, Mr Nqobile Ndlovu, expressed confidence that the MOU would contribute to improving the laboratory workforce, testing quality, and overall enhancement of Africa's laboratories.

The partnership aligns to achieve Universal Health Coverage as advocated by the World Health Organization.

Dr Allan Pamba, Executive Vice-President of Diagnostics at Roche Africa, highlighted the company's commitment to significantly increasing the number of tests delivered globally.

Roche aims to reach 500 million people, compared to the current 50 million, with its Global Action Programme and Testing Solution, particularly in the area of HIV/AIDS testing.

Dr Pascale Oadoa, Director of Science at ASLM, emphasized the post-COVID improvements in technology, innovation, and test processes, noting the potential for data-driven solutions on the continent.

She encouraged stakeholders to embrace the positive changes and advancements in diagnostics, especially considering Africa's projected population growth of 2.5 billion by 2050.