Strengthening Outbreak Detection in Africa to Achieve the 7-1-7 Global Framework: Challenges and Opportunities.

Abstract

Objectives: Timely detection of infectious disease outbreaks is essential to limit health, social, and economic impacts, yet diagnostic and surveillance gaps persist across Africa. This review applies the 7-1-7 global target framework-detect within 7 days, notify within 1, and respond within 7-to assess strategies for strengthening early detection capacities across African countries.

Methods: We conducted a review of peer-reviewed literature, institutional reports, and field evidence published without time span limitations. Key themes were organized around five strategic pillars: diagnostic preparedness, surveillance, workforce development, community engagement, and governance.

Results: Identified bottlenecks include limited diagnostic networks capacity, fragmented surveillance systems, workforce shortages, and underinvestment in digital infrastructure. Promising solutions include diagnostic network optimization, deployment of point-of-care molecular tools, integration of event- and indicator-based surveillance through interoperable platforms, and AI-enabled early warning systems. Field examples from Uganda, Senegal, and Nigeria demonstrate improved timeliness where coordinated investments and multisectoral collaboration have been implemented.

Conclusion: Meeting the 7-1-7 detection target requires integrated, country-owned strategies that align diagnostics, surveillance, workforce, and governance within resilient national health security frameworks, underpinned by sustained domestic investment.