INTRODUCTION:
National laboratory systems are essential for disease surveillance, outbreak response, and pandemic preparedness. In West Africa, the One Health approach, linking human, animal, and environmental health, is critical given frequent emerging infectious threats. This study synthesizes the status of regional laboratory systems to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for integrated capacity strengthening.

METHODS:
A thematic review was conducted using the WHO Strategic Framework for Strengthening Laboratory Services and the Laboratory Quality Management System framework. Data were drawn from WHO Joint External Evaluation reports, national policy and laboratory documents, and peer-reviewed articles. Analysis focused on governance, infrastructure, workforce, biosafety, quality management, and laboratory information systems.

RESULTS:
Most countries operate tiered networks anchored by national reference laboratories. Several are ISO-accredited and equipped for molecular diagnostics, bacterial culture, sequencing, and biobanking. However, governance, funding, and One Health coordination are uneven. Peripheral, veterinary, and environmental laboratories remain under-resourced, and biosafety, quality management, and information systems are partially implemented.

CONCLUSIONS:
This analysis highlights key investment priorities, including strengthening One Health governance, harmonizing infrastructure, expanding workforce training, enhancing biosafety and quality systems, and developing interoperable digital platforms to bolster laboratory readiness and pandemic preparedness.