Kenya Showcases Progress in Diagnostics and AMR Surveillance at 2nd ASLM Special Convention
Nairobi , 2025Kenya is this week hosting the 2nd Africa Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) Special Convention on Diagnostics in Nairobi, bringing together leading scientists, policymakers, industry stakeholders, civil society and development partners under the theme “Strengthening Diagnostics, AMR Surveillance and Innovative Financing for Impact.”
Held just days after World Antimicrobial Resistance Week, the Convention underscores the urgent need to strengthen Africa’s diagnostic capacity to combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), enhance early outbreak detection and build resilient health systems.
Representing the Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, Director for Public Health Dr. Stephen Muleshe reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to placing diagnostics at the core of Primary Health Care, Universal Health Coverage and national health security. He highlighted Kenya’s progress over the past decade through expanded laboratory networks, strengthened genomic and AMR surveillance, integration of diagnostics into PHC, and increased domestic investment in health emergency preparedness.
The Convention is also spotlighting innovations in diagnostic technologies, integrated surveillance models and sustainable financing, including efforts to mobilise resources to accelerate AMR progress across the continent.
Dr. Muleshe commended ASLM for its leadership and expressed Kenya’s strong support for institutionalizing this Convention as a permanent platform for policy alignment, innovation sharing and strengthening Africa’s diagnostic ecosystem.
"A stronger and more interconnected Africa begins with stronger diagnostics and Kenya remains committed to leading and collaborating toward this shared vision." He said.