Vientiane: The Lao government, together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), has launched the ALERT-LAO project, a new initiative designed to enhance the country's capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to pandemic threats.
According to Lao News Agency, the project reflects a commitment to protecting the health of the Lao people by strengthening and coordinating systems. ALERT-LAO aims to close crucial gaps in early warning and laboratory capacity, ensuring that Lao PDR is better prepared for future health threats, as articulated by Mrs. Baykham Khattiya, Minister of Ministry of Health.
Funded by a US$17.59 million grant from the Pandemic Fund, ALERT-LAO, which stands for Advancing Lao PDR's Pandemic Response and Transformation, will invest in various areas including integrated disease surveillance and early warning, laboratory systems, workforce development, risk prevention, and policy environment enhancement across all 18 provinces. This project has attracted an additional US$91.6 million from domestic resources and US$14.6 million from international partners.
Ms. Priya Basu, Executive Director of the Pandemic Fund, emphasized the significance of this initiative in building stronger defenses against pandemics. The investment has not only strengthened surveillance and laboratory systems but also catalyzed additional co-financing, showcasing the power of partnerships and leadership in the country.
Mrs. Chanthakhone Boualaphanh, Vice Minister of Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, highlighted the importance of protecting human health by also safeguarding animal health, environmental health, and food system resilience. ALERT-LAO will enhance animal disease surveillance, veterinary services, environmental monitoring, and cross-sector coordination to identify and manage potential threats early.
The project employs a One Health approach, acknowledging the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It aims to improve multisectoral coordination, risk communication, community engagement, and digital data-sharing across sectors.
Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Representative in Lao PDR, spoke on behalf of FAO and UNICEF, emphasizing the importance of building a connected system with strong surveillance, laboratories, and a trained workforce to ensure a rapid response to emerging threats.
The launch event in Vientiane Capital gathered around 165 representatives from various sectors, including government ministries, provincial authorities, embassies, and development partners. The project's implementation, led by the Government of Lao PDR with FAO and UNICEF as Implementing Entities, will also involve the World Health Organization (WHO) providing strategic and technical guidance. This collaboration aims to strengthen preparedness and response efforts at both provincial and national levels.