The meeting aimed to review the implementation status of the Global Laboratory Initiative (GLI) Africa Regional framework (2016-2020), operationalize the AFR SRL network, and discuss resource mobilization strategies for SRLs and National Centers of Excellence (NCEs). Participants included representatives from SRLs (Cotonou, Kampala, Alger, and Johannesburg), candidate SRLs (Maputo and Kigali), candidate NCEs (Ethiopia Public Health Institute and Zaria National TB Reference Laboratory), WHO AFRO, the Global Fund, WHO Geneva, and CSOs (Uganda and Benin).