Implemented by the University of Lomé, the project aims to train the French-speaking public health leaders from West Africa in advanced field epidemiology, enhancing these countries’ capacity to respond to epidemics.
Context
Field epidemiology training was established in the 1980s by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Now available worldwide, these programs are widely recognized as an effective means of strengthening countries’ capacity for surveillance, early warning, epidemiological investigation, and epidemic response.
The CFRSP in Togo aims to implement the highest level of this training (Level III) at the University of Lomé, expanding both initial and continuing education opportunities for French-speaking public health leaders in West Africa.
Description
This training aims to enhance the capacity of West African countries in public health emergency prevention, surveillance, investigation, and response. The project includes:
- Providing scholarships to in-service professionals from the ten target countries, ensuring that 40% of recipients are women;
- Organizing and improving the training program by developing and updating modules, as well as recruiting and training instructors;
- Creating a field epidemiology manual for French-speaking public health leaders;
- Establishing a resource platform and hosting events for the exchange of practices and knowledge in French.
Impact
The project will train 60 professionals in human, environmental, and animal health from ten West African countries to effectively respond to public health emergencies while promoting gender equality. It will foster a French-speaking community of field epidemiology practitioners in the region. Ultimately, this initiative will improve surveillance, preparedness, and epidemic response systems, strengthening the resilience of regional health systems against emerging public health challenges.
