On September 5, 2025, the Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID) was honoured to host Dr. Paige Alexandra Armstrong, Acting Director of the Global Health Center (GHC) at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Dr Mewamba Estelle, postdoctoral researcher at CRID, showcasing Novaseq6000 to Dr Paige
The delegation was received at the CRID Amphitheatre by staff and leadership, with Prof. Flobert Njiokou, Deputy Executive Director of CRID, delivering the opening address. . Prof. Flobert Njiokou highlighted that CDC’s investment has enabled CRID to acquire cutting-edge laboratory equipment, enhance genomic research capabilities, and offer significant training opportunities to scientists and technical staff. “This support has been instrumental in developing a highly skilled workforce dedicated to fighting infectious diseases in Africa”, he emphasized. Dr. Magellan Tchouakui, Research Scientist at CRID, presented the institute’s current projects and key achievements made possible through CDC support. Notably, the “Population Genomics Approach for Tracking Anopheles stephensi Invasion in Central Africa”, which includes training district health workers across all 10 regions of Cameroon.
In her remarks, Dr. Paige Armstrong expressed her appreciation for the strong collaboration between CDC and CRID, stressing the importance of ensuring of ensuring joint efforts deliver their intended impact. “The research conducted by institutions like CRID allows us to anticipate future challenges,” she added. The visit continued with a guided tour of CRID’s modern laboratories and insectary. The delegation observed the cutting-edge facilities, including advanced Next Generation Sequencing technology. Dr. Armstrong expressed strong interest in CRID’s innovative research on infectious diseases and vector-control strategies. Her presence marks a historic occasion. Dr. Armstrong is the highest-ranking CDC official to visit Cameroon since the CDC office was established in the country more than 20 years ago.
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CDC’s delegation was made up of: Dr Maestro A. Evans, Bureau Chief, Central, Southern & West Africa for GHC; Dr Mohamed F. Jalloh, CDC Country Director – Cameroon; Dr Deyde Varough, Regional Associate Director, GHC; Sara Schubert, Special Assistant to Dr Paige Amstrong; Dr Ariane Nzouankeu, Senior Laboratory Advisor, CDC; and Laura T. Eno, Laboratory Team Lead, Cameroon CDC. This milestone visit reaffirms the longstanding partnership between CDC and CRID and underscores their shared commitment to advancing public health across the region.
