Sierra Leone is intensifying its battle against the monkeypox (MPOX) outbreak by building national expertise in genomic surveillance and bioinformatics.
From 23 to 27 June 2025, a high-level training session was held at the Central Public Health Reference Laboratory (CPHRL) in Freetown, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) both regionally and nationally.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Genomic Surveillance Capacity for Monkeypox Response in Sierra Leone,” the workshop gathered fifteen professionals—including biologists, epidemiologists, and public health specialists—from across the country.
The shared objective: to bolster the nation’s ability to detect, analyze, and track the virus’s evolution through cutting-edge genomic science.
As of 27 June, Sierra Leone has registered more than 4,400 confirmed MPOX cases.
However, only 2.5% of these samples—just 108 sequences—have been genomically analyzed, limiting real-time understanding and hindering tailored public health interventions.
While some genomic data is accessible via platforms like GISAID, Pathoplexus, and NCBI Virus, the absence of locally integrated systems has constrained timely surveillance and response.
In response, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) and the Sierra Leone National Public Health Agency (SLNPHA) have made genomic surveillance a strategic priority—aiming to enhance outbreak preparedness, monitor virus transmission, and inform targeted health policies.
“This workshop marks a crucial step in our response to MPOX.
It fills a major gap in bioinformatics and lays the foundation for sustainable genomic surveillance for public health,” said Allan Campbell, CPHRL Laboratory Manager.
The session formed part of the WHO Africa-led Continental Monkeypox Response Plan 2.0, designed to strengthen genomic and epidemiological capacity across the continent. Participants engaged in a rigorous programme of theoretical instruction, practical training, and data analysis.
Walter Oguta, an epidemiological analytics specialist at WHO Africa and lead trainer, explained: “The objective is clear: to transform genomic data into concrete public health strategies.
The goal is to equip participants with the technical tools and the confidence to use them effectively.”
Doris Harding, who leads the Laboratory Pillar at SLNPHA, echoed the urgency: “Strengthening our genomics capabilities is no longer a luxury, it’s an emergency.
This initiative enables our scientists to better address monkeypox and other emerging pathogens.”
Jonathan Greene, head of laboratories at WHO Sierra Leone, added: “Developing local expertise is a fundamental pillar of WHO’s strategy for robust health systems.
Genomics is revolutionizing the way we manage epidemics, allowing us to move from reaction to anticipation.”
Dr. Ameh George, WHO Representative in Sierra Leone, emphasized the broader vision: “Genomics is transforming epidemiology.
Sierra Leone must assert itself as a key player in the production and use of this data, both for its own health security and that of the region.
WHO is committed to supporting this transition.”
Participants and partners hailed the workshop as a forward-looking investment in epidemic resilience.
The initiative promises to integrate genomic intelligence into national health strategies, enabling quicker, data-driven responses to both current and future public health threats.
The event concluded with a certificate ceremony and a networking session—symbols of growing collaboration and a shared commitment to innovation in public health.
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