From January 26 to 30, 2025, a delegation from the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) conducted a high-level mission to the United Kingdom. Led by General Administrator Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall, this visit marks a decisive step in implementing the joint roadmap launched in Dakar last September.
Accompanied by Dr. Cheikh Tidiane Diagne and Dr. Joe Fitchett, Dr. Socé Fall held a series of high-level meetings. Specifically, the mission aimed to strengthen health resilience between Senegal and the United Kingdom.
Enhanced Cooperation Framework with UKHSA and FCDO
The mission began with strategic discussions at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Following this, a technical visit took place at Porton Down. These steps finalize the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2024 with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). In particular, the goals are clear:
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Technological Acceleration: Co-developing vaccines and diagnostics for emerging threats.
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Increased Vigilance: Strengthening early detection and surveillance in the UK, Senegal, and West Africa.
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Infrastructure and Expertise: Optimizing laboratory capacities to guarantee an agile response to future epidemics.
Academic Excellence at Oxford University
Furthermore, IPD’s leadership was showcased during a prestigious seminar at the University of Oxford. Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall delivered a presentation titled: “Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Security Architecture.”
As a result, this academic visit fostered privileged exchanges with global scientific figures such as Sir Peter Horby, Dame Sarah Gilbert, and Dame Molly Stevens. These meetings consolidate bridges between African research and top British institutions like CEPI and the Wellcome Trust.
Towards Autonomy in Diagnostic Tools
Finally, the industrial and operational phase led the delegation to Global Access Diagnostics. Discussions focused on a major public health issue: the launch of rapid diagnostic tests for measles and onchocerciasis.
Additionally, a meeting with Melanie Saville (PATH) explored new synergies to expand the portfolio of rapid diagnostic products. These tools are essential for effective health interventions in the field.
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