Dr Jean de Dieu Iragena

Dr Jean de Dieu Iragena, is a freelance consultant specializing in diagnostics and laboratory systems. He holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences from Makerere University in Uganda, as well as a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree from the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium.

In the past 2 decades, Dr Iragena has worked with WHO in Moscow, at Headquarters in Geneva, and across the WHO African Region. His work has consistently focused on strengthening laboratory systems for HIV, tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections.

As Technical Officer for Laboratories (HIV, TB, Hepatitis and STIs) at WHO Regional Office for Africa, he played a pivotal role in advancing elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) and viral hepatitis elimination efforts. He contributed to the establishment of the Regional Validation Committee and supported the development and effective functioning of National Validation Committees across the region. He also helped define core laboratory validation requirements for EMTCT in priority countries and participated in national assessments, dossier reviews, and evidence synthesis to ensure alignment with WHO standards.

In addition, Dr Iragena has been deeply engaged in supporting outbreak responses across Africa, helping countries reinforce laboratory readiness and surveillance during public health emergencies.