The National Health Research and Training Institute (NHRTI) formerly TDRC, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 8 laboratories of member institutions of the Zambia Genomic Surveillance Consortium (ZGSC) – a group of public and private institutions involved in genomic surveillance in Zambia. The MOUs were signed to foster collaboration among member institutions in monitoring and analyzing the genetic material of pathogens of epidemic and pandemic potential, utilizing advanced genomic sequencing technologies.
The event took place during the launch of the National Pathogen Genomic Surveillance Strategy in Zambia which was officiated by 4 Ministers from the Ministries of Health, Green economy, Agriculture as well as the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.
The launch of the 2025- 2029 Strategy was held on 9th February 2025 at Legacy Hotel in Lusaka and marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance infectious disease detection, monitoring, and response. This strategy aims to leverage genomic sequencing technologies to identify and track pathogens, helping to combat emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19, tuberculosis, malaria, and antimicrobial-resistant infections.
By implementing this strategy, Zambia is strengthening its public health surveillance system, improving early outbreak detection, and enhancing the ability to track disease transmission patterns. This initiative will also support evidence-based decision-making, ensuring timely interventions and better preparedness for future public health threats.
Ultimately, the launch of this strategy underscores the government’s commitment to advancing precision public health, reducing disease burden, and safeguarding the health of Zambians through innovative and data-driven approaches.
Other than hosting training of the ZGSC members, NHRTI has been participating in the Consortium monthly meetings and is a part of the pathogen genomic surveillance system of the country.
The MoU was signed among 8 Heads of ZGSC member institutions which include:
1. Zambia National Public Health Reference Laboratory (ZNPHRL) – Secretariat
2. The National Health Research and Training Institute (NHRTI) formerly TDRC
3. University Teaching Hospital Virology Laboratory (UTHVL)
4. Churches Health Association of Zambia (CHAZ)
5. University of Zambia School of Veterinary Medicine (UNZA SVM)
6. Macha Research Trust (MRT)
7. Central Veterinary Research Institute (CVRI)
8. Center for Infectious Diseases Research in Zambia (CIDRZ)
NHRTI Director General Dr Gershom Chongwe, Head of Biomedical Sciences Department Dr Justin Chileshe and Head of Molecular Biology Unit, Mr Kabengele Siame were present at the Launch. The Director General signed the MoU on behalf NHRTI
