Project ECHO at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center has launched a new initiative to bolster collaborative disease surveillance across seven African countries. Funded by a two-year, $2.2 million grant from the Gates Foundation, the project aims to enhance outbreak detection and response while building more resilient health systems. It supports health ministries and public health institutes through knowledge exchange and training.
Project ECHO, based at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, has introduced a new network designed to enhance collaborative surveillance of infectious diseases in seven African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia. Backed by a $2.2 million grant from the Gates Foundation over two years, the initiative will aid health ministries and national public health institutes with training and knowledge sharing to improve outbreak detection and response capabilities.
This effort aligns with Project ECHO's broader goal of democratizing medical knowledge and broadening access to evidence-based care globally. By focusing on rapid information exchange, it seeks to fortify health systems against emerging threats.
"Health workers and public health professionals need up-to-date information to respond quickly and effectively to disease outbreaks when time is of the essence. We're here to help bring them the training they need," said Dr. Caroline Kisia, Project ECHO's Africa director. "This work is incredibly urgent. Africa CDC reported 242 outbreaks on the continent in 2024, a steep rise from previous years. If we contain outbreaks quickly, we reduce the risk of future epidemics."
The launch comes amid growing concerns over infectious disease trends in Africa, with the noted increase in outbreaks underscoring the need for stronger surveillance mechanisms. This project promises to build resilience by empowering local health experts with timely resources and collaborative tools.
