By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Sierra Leone has recorded another significant achievement on the regional public health stage following the election of renowned public health expert, Patrick Hansil Lansana, to a key leadership position within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Lansana’s election is a testament to his outstanding contributions to Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), Behavioural Intelligence, and Infodemic Management critical components of modern public health systems that help countries prepare for and respond effectively to disease outbreaks and other health emergencies.
His appointment also reflects the growing recognition of Sierra Leone’s expertise in strengthening public health communication, epidemic intelligence, and emergency preparedness across the West African sub-region.
Public health professionals have described Lansana as one of the leading voices in advancing Behavioural Intelligence and Infodemic Management (BIIM) in Sierra Leone. His work has been instrumental in developing systems that enable health authorities to understand public perceptions, counter misinformation, and promote evidence-based health communication during emergencies.
The BIIM approach has become increasingly important in recent years as countries seek to address the spread of false information that can undermine public health interventions. Through his leadership and technical expertise, Lansana has supported initiatives that place communities at the centre of emergency response, ensuring that health messages are informed by local realities and public behaviour.
According to a statement announcing his election, Lansana earned the confidence and support of public health professionals from across the ECOWAS region due to his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to strengthening regional collaboration in public health communication and preparedness.
His election is expected to enhance cooperation among ECOWAS member states in promoting effective risk communication strategies, improving community engagement, and strengthening regional capacity to respond to epidemics and other public health threats.
Health sector stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as a proud moment for Sierra Leone and a reflection of the country’s increasing influence in regional public health leadership.
Observers say the appointment not only recognises Lansana’s personal achievements but also underscores the progress Sierra Leone has made in building resilient health systems capable of responding to emerging and re-emerging health challenges.
As ECOWAS continues to strengthen regional health security, Lansana’s experience in behavioural intelligence, community engagement, and infodemic management is expected to contribute significantly to collective efforts aimed at protecting the health and well-being of millions of people across West Africa.
His election serves as an inspiration to public health professionals in Sierra Leone and demonstrates that expertise, innovation, and commitment to service can earn recognition on the regional and international stage.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 5th August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
