The National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) in Dar es Salaam has achieved a significant milestone, being officially designated as a World Health Organisation (WHO) HIV Drug Resistance Network (HIVResNet) National Laboratory for HIV Drug Resistance (HIVDR) testing for 2025, writes Catherine Murombedzi.
This recognition places Tanzania at the forefront of global efforts to monitor and respond to HIV drug resistance, a critical component in the fight to end the AIDS epidemic, the WHO said in a statement.
The designation follows NPHL‘s successful demonstration of technical proficiency in genotyping HIV-1 protease, reverse transcriptase, and integrase genes from plasma specimens using the ThermoFisher commercial kit.
This achievement confirms the laboratory’s ability to generate high-quality, accurate data in line with international standards set by WHO’s HIV Drug Resistance Network (HIVResNet).
Dr Jean de Dieu Iragena praised the laboratory professionals’ commitment and technical excellence.
“This recognition is a major milestone for Tanzania and a testament to our national leadership in HIV surveillance and strengthens our contribution to global public health,” said Dr Jean de Dieu Iragena.
The WHO HIV Drug Resistance Network (HIVResNet) designation supports a global strategy for HIVDR surveillance, ensuring antiretroviral therapy remains effective and sustainable in the face of emerging drug resistance.
As a designated HIVResNet National Laboratory, NPHL will participate in WHO’s annual proficiency testing and maintain high standards to remain in the network.
WHO emphasized the importance of notifying any significant changes to the laboratory’s infrastructure or leadership, ensuring sustained excellence.
Dr. Charles Sagoe-Moses, Country Representative of WHO, commended Tanzania’s efforts to integrate quality HIVDR surveillance into its national health strategy.
“The designation of NPHL is a strong endorsement of the laboratory’s capability and commitment to public health,” said Dr Charles Sagoe-Moses.
This achievement marks a significant step forward in Tanzania’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
With NPHL’s designation as a WHO HIVResNet National Laboratory, Tanzania is poised to make a meaningful contribution to global public health, ensuring that no one is left behind in access to safe, effective, and sustainable HIV treatment.
The laboratory’s dedication to generating high-quality data and informing national treatment policies will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the fight against HIV/AIDS in Tanzania and beyond.
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