Conakry – On World Health Day 2026, celebrated under the theme “United for Health. Supporting Science”, World Health Organization (WHO) highlights individuals across the African Region who are using science to improve people’s lives.
A respected infectious disease researcher, Professor Alpha Kabinet Keita is one of Guinea’s leading scientific voices on emerging diseases. Through his work, he helps strengthen the country’s capacity to anticipate, understand and respond to health threats. For him, science should not remain confined to laboratories; it must inform public decision-making, engage communities and inspire younger generations. In this interview, he shares his vision of science that is useful, credible and deeply rooted in local realities.
What role does science play today in understanding and managing emerging diseases in Guinea?
Science is our first line of defence. It allows us to understand how diseases emerge and spread, and how we can better control them. In Guinea, scientific progress has made it possible to identify the causes of outbreaks more rapidly and adapt public health responses accordingly.
Beyond diagnosis, science guides disease surveillance, treatment options and prevention strategies. It enables us to anticipate risks rather than simply react to crises. Without reliable data and rigorous research, protecting populations effectively from emerging health threats would be impossible.
Which recent advances in infectious disease research do you consider most significant for public health in West Africa?
Several advances have significantly strengthened our response capacity. One of the most important is genetic sequencing, which allows us to track the evolution of viruses almost in real time. This helps us better understand transmission and adapt response measures.
Innovative vaccines, particularly against diseases such as Ebola, represent another breakthrough. They have saved lives and helped build public confidence in prevention. Finally, digital tools are playing an increasingly important role by improving data collection, disease surveillance and response coordination. Together, these advances are contributing to stronger, more resilient health systems across West Africa.
How can scientific credibility be strengthened and misinformation addressed within communities?
Scientific credibility is built on three key pillars: rigour, transparency and closeness to communities. Science must be explained in a simple, clear and honest way. Technical language needs to be translated into messages people can understand, without losing meaning.
Scientists also need to engage directly with communities — to listen, to engage in dialogue and respond to concerns. Working with trusted figures such as community leaders, teachers and health workers is essential to counter misinformation. At the same time, investing early in science education helps develop critical thinking and a stronger understanding of scientific concepts.
What is still missing for health policymakers to systematically rely on scientific evidence?
The data are there, but the link between science and political decision-making remains fragile. What is often missing are structured, regular spaces for dialogue between researchers and decision-makers. Science needs to become a natural part of public action, not something consulted only at the last minute.
Institutionalising these exchanges would help turn research findings into concrete, relevant and effective policies. Decisions informed by science are fairer, more sustainable and ultimately better for population health.
What message would you like to share with young people in Guinea who are interested in or committed to science?
I want to tell them that their country needs them. Guinea needs young scientists who are rigorous, curious and guided by integrity. Choosing a career in science is a way of serving the common good.
I encourage them to pursue solid training, cultivate critical thinking, ask questions and innovate. They should remain grounded in local realities while staying open to the world. Credible, engaged and useful science is possible in Guinea — and it begins with them.
Communications Officer
WHO Regional Office for Africa
Email: dialloka [at] who.int (dialloka[at]who[dot]int)