Enhancing capacity for pandemic prevention, preparedness, detection, and response in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone’s history of public health crises, including Ebola and Lassa fever outbreaks, underscores the urgent need for a robust health system capable of addressing complex challenges. This project seeks to transform the country’s health security by reinforcing disease surveillance, laboratory infrastructure, and workforce capacity under the One Health approach, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response to future pandemics.

Implementation and key components

Led by the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) in partnership with WHO, FAO, UNICEF, and the World Bank, the project will work to create a more integrated and resilient health system. By targeting interventions at both national and local levels, it aims to address systemic gaps and build long-term capacity to manage public health emergencies.

Strengthening surveillance and data integration

The project will enhance Sierra Leone’s electronic surveillance systems, integrating real-time data collection and sharing across human, animal, and environmental health sectors. This will include expanding monitoring to underrepresented facilities, such as private and faith-based health centers, and improving event-based surveillance. Special emphasis will be placed on training health workers to detect and respond to threats quickly, with a focus on Points of Entry, ensuring effective border health management.

Upgrading laboratory networks

Investments in laboratory infrastructure will focus on creating a unified network that supports advanced diagnostics for zoonotic and emerging diseases. Modern technologies will be introduced alongside comprehensive biosafety and biosecurity measures to ensure laboratories meet international standards. Additionally, a reliable specimen transport system will connect regional facilities, enabling rapid testing and analysis. Training programs for laboratory staff will ensure sustainability and enhance the country’s diagnostic readiness.

Developing a skilled and responsive workforce

A core component of the project is the development of a highly skilled workforce equipped to address pandemic threats. Training initiatives will target a wide range of professionals, including health workers, veterinarians, and environmental specialists. These efforts will focus on improving epidemiological competencies, fostering rapid response coordination, and engaging with communities to promote awareness and trust. The project will also establish a surge workforce framework to strengthen the country’s capacity to handle future crises effectively.

Expected outcomes

The initiative aims to create an integrated and adaptive health system capable of managing public health emergencies with speed and efficiency. Improved laboratory capacities and workforce training will not only reduce the socio-economic impact of pandemics but also position Sierra Leone as a model for health resilience in the region. By achieving measurable improvements in JEE, SPAR, and PVS scores, the project will align the country with international health regulations and significantly enhance its overall health security.