ASLM RELEASES REPORT ON IMPACT OF USG FUNDING FREEZE ON AFRICA’S LAB SECTOR
22/04/2025: Kampala.
The African society for Laboratory Medicine, ASLM has released a report on the impact of the freeze on United States Government (USG) funding, particularly through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program, on laboratory services in partnering African countries.
The report entitled The Impact of a Temporary Suspension of United States Government (USG) Funding on Laboratory Services in African Partner Countries, comes as the NHLDS joins the rest of the world to commemorate the Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (Lab Week).
According to the report, it surveyed national public health laboratory directors across 20 Africa countries, through its Laboratory Directors Forum (LabDF) to assess the potential impacts of the funding pause. The Laboratory Directors’ Forum (LabDF), is chaired by NHLDS Commissioner Dr. Susan Nabadda.
The findings highlighted several critical vulnerabilities in laboratory operations, such as reduced access to reagents, reduction in diagnostic services, and difficulties in maintaining equipment, sample transport networks, and human resources capacity. The report also highlights the need for contingency planning, diversification of funding sources, and enhanced domestic investment to ensure the sustainability of laboratory services.
Speaking during the release of the report, ASLM CEO, Mr. Nqobile Ndlovu, emphasized that the laboratory community must step up and speak out.
“This is an opportunity for us in the laboratory community to add our voice. Voices from civil society and affected groups must come together to advocate for renewed and diversified funding. This report gives us a platform to speak on the impact, and we look forward to its wide publication,” he stated.
Dr. Susan Nabadda, Chair LabDF, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, noting that over 80% of laboratory services in Africa are donor-funded.
“Thank you to ASLM for gathering input from across the continent through the LabDF. These findings not only highlight the challenges we face but also offer innovative solutions and recommendations. We must apply these lessons at the country level as we prepare for shifts in the global funding landscape,” she urged.
The report concludes that sustainable laboratory systems require not only financial commitment from governments but also improved accountability, efficiency, and strategic partnerships.
Read more and download the report here https://cphl.go.ug/web/impact-on-funding-pause
