The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), through its USAID-funded Tuberculosis Local Organisation Network (TBLON) project, has donated 250 internet modems to support the roll out of Cepheid C360 to laboratories in Zambia. This donation will enhance the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) ability to remotely monitor GeneXpert machines, contributing to improved system performance and management.
The USAID TBLON Project Chief of Party, Dr Mary Kagujje handed over the modems at the Ministry’s headquarters in Lusaka. Dr Kagujje explained that the donation is part of a broader package of support under the TBLON project aimed at strengthening Zambia’s laboratory systems and the diagnostic network.
“This support will also contribute to the Ministry’s mission of delivering equitable, cost-effective, and high-quality healthcare services as close to the family as possible,” she added.
Receiving the donation, Ministry of Health Assistant Director of Laboratory Services, Mr Mweemba Muvwimi, emphasised the importance of internet connectivity in TB diagnosis and control. He noted that the GeneXpert machines used to test tuberculosis in health facilities require internet access to transmit data to the Ministry for centralised monitoring and analysis.
“These modems will play a critical role in enhancing real-time data transmission, improving oversight, and ultimately strengthening our national TB response,” he said.
And National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Manager Dr Angel Mubanga hailed CIDRZ for the support noting that it was a testament to the beneficial relationship between MOH and CIDRZ enhanced by the TBLON project.
The GeneXpert system, known for its speed and accuracy in TB diagnosis, is being enhanced by the internet-supported Cepheid C360 system, which enables real-time monitoring of instrument performance and TB data. This improves system efficiency, supports timely issue resolution, and strengthens disease surveillance and patient care.
The importance of this initiative was highlighted during the event, which was attended by the USAID TBLON Deputy Chief of Party Dr Phallon Mwaba, Ministry of Health Head of Chest Diseases Laboratory Ms Mutende Wina, TB HIV Diagnostic Officer Ms Judith Mzyece, USAID-TBLON Project Manager Ms Barbara Lemisa Kaswaya, and Laboratory representative Mr Robertson Chibumbya.