Central African Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program: building and strengthening regional workforce capacity in public health

• Published in: The Pan African medical journal Vol. 10; no. Suppl 1
• Main Authors: Ondobo Andze, Gervais, Namsenmo, Abel, Kebella Illunga, Benoit, Kazambu, Ditu, Delissaint, Dieula, Kuaban, Christopher, Mbopi-Kéou, Francois-Xavier, Gabsa, Wilfred, Mulumba, Leopold, Pierre Bangamingo, Jean, Ngulefac, John, Dahlke, Melissa, Mukanga, David, Nsubuga, Peter
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: The African Field Epidemiology Network 14-12-2011
• ISSN: 1937-8688

The Central African Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (CAFELTP) is a
2-year public health leadership capacity building training program. It was established in
October 2010 to enhance capacity for applied epidemiology and public health laboratory
services in three countries: Cameroon, Central African Republic, and the Democratic
Republic of Congo. The aim of the program is to develop a trained public health workforce
to assure that acute public health events are detected, investigated, and responded to
quickly and effectively. The program consists of 25% didactic and 75% practical training
(field based activities). Although the program is still in its infancy, the residents have
already responded to six outbreak investigations in the region, evaluated 18 public health
surveillance systems and public health programs, and completed 18 management projects.
Through these various activities, information is shared to understand similarities and
differences in the region leading to new and innovative approaches in public health. The
program provides opportunities for regional and international networking in field
epidemiology and laboratory activities, and is particularly beneficial for countries that
may not have the immediate resources to host an individual country program. Several of the
trainees from the first cohort already hold leadership positions within the ministries of
health and national laboratories, and will return to their assignments better equipped to
face the public health challenges in the region. They bring with them knowledge, practical
training, and experiences gained through the program to shape the future of the public
health landscape in their countries.