About Us

Discover our story.

Our Mission

The mission of the ECOWAS Regional Centre for Surveillance and Disease Control (RCSDC) is to enhance regional health security by identifying, assessing, and reporting current and emerging threats posed to human health by diseases, and to prepare appropriate responses. We strive to strengthen the health systems of ECOWAS member states, improving their capacity for epidemic prevention, diagnosis, and control.

Our Objectives

Surveillance and Early Warning

To provide timely and accurate information on disease outbreaks and health threats.

Capacity Building

To enhance the ability of member states to respond effectively to public health emergencies.

Research and Development

To promote and facilitate research in disease control and prevention within the region.

Dr. Omar Alieu Touray

President of the ECOWAS Commission

Dr. Melchior Athanase Joël C. Aissi

Director General of WAHO

Brief History

The RCSDC was established following the decision of the 47th Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, held on May 19, 2015, in Accra, Ghana. The center was officially commissioned on February 21, 2018, in Abuja, Nigeria. This establishment fits within the framework of the African Union’s initiative to create a network of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention across Africa.