Director of pandemic threats at the Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Dr Emmanuel Agogo has urged stronger political leadership to advance the production of diagnostics in Africa, insisting that progress must move beyond promises to concrete actions.
Agogo made this call during an interview with journalists on the sidelines of the 3rd World Local Production Forum, which was held virtually on Thursday.
Participants at the forum acknowledged that while local and regional manufacturing of vaccines and therapeutics has gathered pace, diagnostics – an essential pillar of a resilient health system – remains largely neglected.
Central to the discussions was the pressing need for political will, genuine commitment and swift action to turn high-level declarations into meaningful outcomes.
“We must move from talk to implementation. Political will must be evident in dedicated budget allocations and integrated into national health strategies that prioritise diagnostics as a core element of health security,” Agogo said.
He emphasised the importance of setting measurable targets, carrying out regular accountability reviews, and ensuring sustained funding to align regional efforts with global health priorities, such as the World Health Organisation’s Diagnostics Resolution.
Agogo highlighted successful models like Rwanda, which has established an mRNA technology hub, demonstrating how visionary leadership and international cooperation can unlock transformative progress.
He called for the expansion of regional production hubs, harmonisation of regulations, and promotion of technology transfer agreements to build a sustainable framework for diagnostics manufacturing across the continent.
“Local production of diagnostics will not only improve disease detection and emergency response, it will also create jobs, strengthen scientific capacity and reinforce the vital connection between health and economic development,” he noted.
He identified regional trade platforms like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as crucial for scaling innovations in diagnostics and broadening market access.
Agogo concluded with a strong call to action, urging Africa to harness its scientific talent and regional partnerships to reduce reliance on imported diagnostics, enhance health outcomes and strengthen preparedness for future health emergencies.
The forum ended with a resounding message: “Enough of the rhetoric, now is the time for action.”
