Objectives: Coronavirus disease 2019 was declared a global pandemic in March 2020 with correct and early detection of cases using laboratory testing central to the response. Hence, the establishment of quality management systems and monitoring their implementation are critical. This study describes the experience of implementing the COVID-19 Laboratory Testing and Certification Program (CoLTeP) in Africa.

Methods: Private and public laboratories conducting SARS-CoV-2 testing using polymerase chain reaction were enrolled and assessed for quality and safety using the CoLTeP checklists.

Results: A total of 84 laboratories from 7 countries were assessed between April 2021 to December 2021 with 52% of these from the private sector. Among them, 64% attained 5 stars and were certified. Section 4 had the highest average score of 92% and the lowest of 78% in Section 3. Also, 82% of non-conformities (NCs) were related to sample collection, transportation, and risk assessments. Non-availability, inconsistency in performing, recording, instituting corrective actions for failed internal and external quality controls were among major NCs reported.

Conclusions: Laboratories identified for SARS-CoV-2 testing by public and private institutions mostly met the requirements for quality and safe testing as measured by the CoLTeP checklist.

Keywords: COVID-19; CoLTeP; certification; laboratory; non-conformities.