RISLNET Capacity Strengthening

Networking for capacity strengthening at the national and regional levels is essential for effective implementation of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) and Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) strategies. RISLNET was established to facilitate and accelerate public health system strengthening at the regional level, including provision of training for healthcare workers, adequate provision of healthcare supplies and equipment, and quality assurance, which will make laboratory tests and data available when required, linked and used for surveillance. The RISLNET Central Africa system strengthening strategy covers three broad areas: (i) collection, analysis and reporting of laboratory data and using this information for public health decision-making; (ii) establishment of appropriate, accurate and sustainable diagnostic practices; and (iii) linking public health laboratory diagnostics with national and regional surveillance activities.