An international webinar to launch a major report on the fight against sickle cell disease in French-speaking Africa

06/05/2026

On Wednesday 22 April 2026, the Global Coalition Against Sickle Cell Disease organised a webinar dedicated to the official launch of its new report entitled ‘Combating Sickle Cell Disease: Initiatives and Prospects in French-speaking Africa’. This online event brought together experts, healthcare professionals and stakeholders united by a common goal: to advance the fight against this genetic disease, which remains all too little known.

A webinar to share over 30 years of commitment

At the heart of this virtual event, the report highlights more than three decades of pioneering initiatives in Senegal, Mali and Burkina Faso. Presented and discussed by its contributors, it draws on interviews with experts, academic data and institutional reports, offering an in-depth analysis of the strategies developed in these countries.

A panel of experts and testimonials

The webinar brought together several leading speakers, some of whom contributed to the drafting of the report:

• Prof. Serge Resnikoff, expert in global health and chair of the Foundation Pierre Fabre’s Scientific Committee
• Prof. Ibrahima Diagne, professor of paediatrics and coordinator of CERPAD in Senegal
• Prof. Aldiouma Guindo, professor of haematology and director of the CRLD in Mali
• Dr Olivia Marie Angèle Awa Ouédraogo, director of disease prevention and control in Burkina Faso
• Mireille Traoré, a patient living with sickle cell disease in Burkina Faso

The webinar was moderated by Sophie Robert, the focal point for the Global Sickle Cell Disease Coalition secretariat.

An opportunity for discussion on key issues

Beyond the presentation of the report, this webinar provided a valuable forum for discussing the key lessons learned from initiatives carried out in the region over the past thirty years. Discussions focused in particular on persistent challenges, successes observed and prospects for improving public health policies.

To watch the webinar replay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RgEVWudzuQ