WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos are set to return this June, poised to shape the future of healthcare and laboratory science in West Africa. Under the direction of Rubina D. Souza, the 2025 edition promises to be even more transformative, bringing together leading experts, professionals, and innovators to address the pressing healthcare challenges in the region.
In this exclusive interview, Rubina D. Souza, Conference Director of WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos, shares insights on the strategic direction, key themes, and the lasting impact the event aims to have on the healthcare landscape. Excerpts below:
WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos are returning this June. Can you give us an overview of what attendees can expect from this year’s edition?
This year, we have built an even more dynamic program for WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos. Attendees can expect a rich blend of insightful discussions, interactive workshops, and hands-on experiences that cover the most critical issues in healthcare and laboratory science today. We’re delving into topics like the future of digital health, innovations in diagnostics, and new strategies for tackling healthcare access and equity in the region. More than just talks, we’re offering real, actionable takeaways for healthcare professionals and lab scientists to drive change in their fields. This is a space for collaboration, innovation, and moving forward with purpose.
Now rebranded as WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos, what ways does the refreshed format enhance the value it delivers to West Africa’s healthcare and laboratory science ecosystems?
The rebrand to WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos reflects our commitment to taking the conversation to a more integrated level. We recognize that healthcare and laboratory science are deeply connected, and that’s something we want to highlight this year. Instead of focusing on these sectors in isolation, we’ve designed the event to encourage cross-pollination between healthcare providers and laboratory professionals. This approach allows us to tackle challenges from all angles—whether it’s improving diagnostic accuracy or leveraging new technology for better healthcare delivery. It’s about bridging these two ecosystems to accelerate progress and find solutions that can truly make a difference.
What are some of the major themes and issues that will be discussed at the conferences this year?
At this year’s edition, we will be addressing a variety of pressing issues this year, all of which are essential to the future of healthcare in West Africa. One major focus will be on innovation in diagnostics. With a shortage of skilled professionals in the region, new diagnostic technologies are key to improving accuracy and accessibility. We’ll also be exploring digital health transformation, from telemedicine to mobile health solutions, and how they’re reshaping patient care. Healthcare access and equity will be another critical topic, especially in underserved communities where healthcare infrastructure is still limited. Finally, we’ll highlight the importance of sustainability in laboratory practices—specifically, how laboratories can reduce their environmental footprint while increasing operational efficiency.
You have attracted an impressive lineup of speakers and partners. How do these voices contribute to shaping the healthcare conversations WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos 2025 aims to drive?
The caliber of speakers we have this year is remarkable, and each one brings a unique perspective to the table. From healthcare professionals to technology innovators and policy leaders, these voices will guide our discussions and challenge conventional thinking. Their expertise will help us dig deep into the issues at hand, offering both high-level strategic insights and practical solutions that attendees can take back to their organizations. In bringing together such a diverse group of experts, we are ensuring that the conversation isn’t one-sided. Instead, it’s a comprehensive dialogue that includes all facets of the healthcare ecosystem, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
Beyond the conference sessions, what opportunities for networking and collaboration will be available to attendees and exhibitors?
Networking is at the heart of WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos. This year, we have made sure that there will be plenty of opportunities for attendees to connect with one another. Whether it’s through designated networking sessions, one-on-one matchmaking, or informal gatherings, we want to create spaces where professionals can share experiences, discuss ideas, and form partnerships. We’re also offering opportunities for exhibitors to meet potential clients and collaborators, ensuring that all attendees have the chance to forge meaningful connections that extend well beyond the conference.
How do events like WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos help address some of the pressing healthcare and laboratory science challenges facing the West African region today?
Events like WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos are critical because they bring the right people together to start solving the region’s toughest healthcare challenges. By bringing healthcare leaders, innovators, and policymakers into one room, we can move the conversation forward and focus on actionable change. These conversations are an opportunity to highlight the issues, like the need for better diagnostic tools or more accessible healthcare services, and create the collaborative environment needed to find solutions. It’s also a platform for advocating for the policy changes that will help create a more robust healthcare system in West Africa.
What role do strategic partnerships, such as those with organisations like ABCHealth and the West African Institute of Public Health, play in the success of WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos 2025?
Strategic partnerships are vital to the success of WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos. Working with respected organizations like ABCHealth and the West African Institute of Public Health gives us the ability to strengthen the conference’s impact and ensure that we address the real needs of the healthcare community. These partners bring additional expertise, resources, and networks, helping us connect with a broader audience and ensuring the content of the event is relevant and timely. Their support enables us to offer a platform where healthcare professionals can engage with the latest research, technologies, and best practices to improve the region’s healthcare systems.
Finally, how can interested stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and innovators get involved or register to attend this year’s event?
Anyone interested in attending WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos 2025 can register through our official website at https://www.worldhealthexpo.com/events/healthcare/lagos/en/home.html. We encourage everyone to register early, as spots tend to fill up quickly. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, lab scientist, or someone with a passion for improving the region’s healthcare systems, there’s a place for you at this event. We also offer opportunities for exhibitors and sponsors to get involved, so if you want to contribute to shaping the future of healthcare in West Africa, this is the place to be.
