Africa CDC, in collaboration with ASLM, convened 23 experts from 10 African countries for the Certified Africa Region Subject Matter Expert (Af-RSME) On-Boarding Workshop in Kigali, Rwanda, as part of the Regional Training and Certification Program for Biosafety and Biosecurity Professionals (RTCP-BBP). The workshop supports the Africa CDC Regional Biosafety and Biosecurity Initiative, addressing gaps in standardized biosafety and biosecurity training and strengthening country-level capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to biological threats. Participants are being equipped with skills in biosafety and biosecurity certification, mentorship, adult learning, improvement project design, reporting, and training, strengthening their ability to share expertise within their institutions and countries. In opening remarks, Mr Henry Byabajungu, member of the Examination and Certification Committee, encouraged participants to share their knowledge and mentor the next generation of biosafety and biosecurity professionals. Speaking on behalf of Africa CDC, Mr Zibusiso Masuku, Senior Biosafety & Biosecurity Officer, emphasized the need for strong laboratory networks and a competent cadre of experts to address emerging biological threats and strengthen preparedness across the continent. The programme, launched in 2022 with support from Canada and the United Kingdom under the Simba Initiative, serves as a continental force multiplier for building sustainable biosafety and biosecurity capacity. These priorities will continue at #ASLM2026 under Track 5: Biosafety, Biosecurity and Emerging Health Threats, where experts will explore strategies to strengthen laboratory safety, workforce capacity and preparedness for future outbreaks across Africa. 📍 Join us at the #ASLM2026 Biennial Conference, taking place 8–11 December 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, under the theme “Integrated Diagnostics for Health Security: Investing in Sustainable Impact". 🔗 Register: aslm2026.org/registration/ @AfricaCDC, @CanadaFP, @UKHSA, @doddtra, @CDCgov, @WorldBankGroup, @NTI_WMD, @GPWMDofficial #ASLM2026 #ASLM #AfricaCDC #Biosafety #Biosecurity #LaboratorySystems #HealthSecurity #OutbreakPreparedness #LaboratoryMedicine #DiagnosticsAfrica #AfricaH