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This paper describes the development of a pilot project to test the implementation of an epidemiological surveillance system for intentional (violent) and non-intentional injuries, at emergency departments in selected hospitals in five African countries applying the World Health Organization's guidelines. We outline obstacles and opportunities encountered during the process. By definition, a surveillance system systematically collects, reviews, and evaluates information to understand the context in which specific injuries occur. Implementation in diverse sociocultural environments in Zambia, Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, and Kenya has provided an opportunity to gather reliable data on injuries for comparisons between these countries. Analysis of the detailed information may permit researchers to generate evidence-based recommendations. Addressed to public authorities, and health authorities in particular, they can help address injury incidence in their communities from a public health perspective.Journal of Public Health Policy (2007) 28, 432–441. doi:10.1057/palgrave.jphp.3200154 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although for over 20 years the Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) have provided a model for building epidemiology capacity in Ministries of Health worldwide, the model does not address laboratory training and its integration with epidemiology. To overcome this, Kenya added a laboratory management component in 2004, creating the first field epidemiology and laboratory training program (FELTP) to train both medical and laboratory epidemiologists. Laboratory management and epidemiology candidates were recruited from among degree-holding scientists at the Ministry of Health and trained in both applied epidemiology and laboratory management using a combination of short courses and extensive field placements. The course generated a cohort of laboratory epidemiologists with demonstrated capacity in disease surveillance and management of outbreaks. Early indicators suggest programmatic success: the start of laboratory-based disease reporting and better laboratory involvement in outbreak responses.Journal of Public Health Policy (2008) 29, 149–164. doi:10.1057/jphp.2008.3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]