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Representatives from CEPI's global laboratory network visited CERI at Stellenbosch University to explore its work in genomic surveillance and epidemic response. The visit reinforced the importance of international collaboration and Africa's central role in advancing pandemic preparedness through the 100 Days Mission.

The delegation, organised by CEPI’s Head of Laboratory Science Group Valentina Bernasconi, brought together partners from the USA, Netherlands, France, Australia, Senegal, Hungary, Mexico, the UK, Austria, and the WHO.

The visit, Bernasconi explained, was driven by a genuine curiosity about what leading African institutions are building – particularly in genomic surveillance and epidemic response – and how that work could strengthen CEPI’s global network.

On Africa's place in that mission, she was clear: “Africa plays a central role in CEPI’s mission to strengthen global pandemic preparedness, both in terms of regional capacity building and as a key partner in generating data, innovation, and response capabilities. Closer collaboration between organisations such as CEPI and CERI is essential to ensure equitable access to tools, strengthen local expertise, and enable faster detection and response to emerging threats.”

Jane Shallcross (pictured above, left, with Lucious Chabuka), CEPI’s Senior Lead for Biosecurity and Biosafety Oversight, spoke on behalf of the group when she described CERI's laboratory facilities as "very impressive."

 

News date: 2026-07-27

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