The equipment, which includes personal protective equipment, sampling materials, and secure sample transport containers, was handed over in a ceremony presided over by Cameroon’s Minister of Public Health, Dr. Manaouda Malachie, and US Ambassador Christopher John Lamora.

The donation, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is expected to significantly enhance the laboratory’s capacity to detect and respond to emerging infectious diseases, such as monkeypox, cholera, and pertussis.

“This donation is a testament to the strong partnership between the United States and Cameroon in the field of public health,” said Ambassador Lamora. “By strengthening Cameroon’s health infrastructure, we are helping to protect the health and well-being of the Cameroonian people.”

Minister Manaouda expressed his gratitude for the US government’s support, emphasizing the importance of laboratory capacity in combating infectious diseases. “This equipment will enable us to better detect and respond to public health threats,” he said. “It is a crucial step towards building a more resilient health system.”

The donation comes at a critical time, as Cameroon continues to strengthen its health system in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Public Health Laboratory plays a vital role in the country’s disease surveillance and response efforts.