The West African Health Organization (WAHO), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Welfare and with the support of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), will host the inaugural meeting of the Governing Body of the Lassa Coalition (LGE) to combat Lassa fever.
This high-level meeting marks an important milestone in the treatment of Lassa fever, a disease of regional and global concern. The inaugural meeting aims to demonstrate regional commitment by showcasing West Africa's dedication to tackling Lassa fever while ensuring global recognition of its health priorities.
The newly formed Lassa Coalition is a pioneering initiative by WAHO to build on existing regional and national efforts against Lassa fever. Its goal is to ensure that safe, effective and high-quality vaccines are available to protect populations adequately and equitably.
The Lassa Governing Entity (LGE) will provide national and regional leadership to the Coalition, ensuring effective governance and programmatic delivery for vaccine developers, funders and member states actively fighting Lassa fever.
The LGE includes Ministers of Health from key member states such as Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, together with senior representatives from CEPI, WAHO and the World Health Organization Headquarters and Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO). .
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The creation of the Lassa Coalition underscores the importance of a collaborative, locally driven partnership model, which emphasizes regional and national ownership while prioritizing early and sustained community engagement.
This regional collaboration will inform critical aspects such as Lassa vaccine use cases, vaccination strategies, clinical trial design, vaccine demand assessment, policy development, and sustainable local vaccine supply and manufacturing.
“Nigeria is proud to contribute to vaccine research through epidemiological studies, clinical trials and other activities organized by our institutions,” said Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare of Nigeria.
“Together, this coalition strengthens public health systems, fosters innovation and builds a resilient future where preventable diseases no longer threaten lives and livelihoods, placing our region firmly on the path to sustainable progress.”
Dr Richard Hatchett, CEO of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), commented: “Lassa fever, which has affected West Africa for decades, has long been considered one of the most neglected diseases. . However, with great advances in vaccine research, this is now changing. The Lassa Coalition and Governing Entity will be instrumental in accelerating vaccine licensing and ensuring equitable access to doses. CEPI is honored to be part of this pioneering group and stands ready to support our partners as we move towards a world free of this pernicious threat.”
In 2025, a WAHO-based Secretariat will collaborate with technical partners to further operationalize the Lassa Coalition. This includes developing a Lassa policy research agenda, ensuring equitable access to future Lassa vaccines, and supporting ongoing Lassa vaccine research and development projects across the region.