The West African Health Organisation (WAHO), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and with support from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), is set to host the inaugural meeting of the Lassa Coalition Governing Entity (LGE) to combat Lassa fever.
This high-level convening marks a significant milestone in addressing 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 established Lassa Coalition is a pioneering initiative by WAHO to build upon existing regional and national Lassa fever efforts. It aims to ensure that safe, effective, and high-quality vaccines are available to protect populations adequately and equitably.
The Lassa Governing Entity (LGE) will provide country and regional leadership to the Coalition, ensuring effective governance and programmatic delivery for vaccine developers, funders, and member states actively combating Lassa fever.
The LGE includes Ministers of Health from key member states such as Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone, alongside senior representatives from CEPI, WAHO, and the World Health Organization Headquarters and the Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO).
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The creation of the Lassa Coalition underscores the importance of a collaborative and locally driven partnership model, emphasizing 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 evaluation, 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 hosted by our institutions,” said Muhammad Ali Pate, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
“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 of sustainable progress.”
Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), remarked, “Having plagued West Africa for decades, Lassa fever 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 pivotal in expediting vaccine licensure 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 progress toward a world free from this pernicious threat.”
In 2025, a Secretariat based at WAHO will collaborate with technical partners to operationalize the Lassa Coalition further. 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.
