34 laboratory technologists from Sudan and Somalia reviewed and discussed issues surrounding CD4 during an intercountry workshop held in KhartoumBetween 11 and 14 June 2012, an intercountry training workshop on CD4 cell enumeration technologies was conducted in Khartoum, Sudan. The workshop was attended by 30 laboratory technologists from Sudan and 4 laboratory technologists from Somalia.

CD4 enumeration is the main tool for disease staging. It is used to decide when to start patients on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and monitors response to treatment.

During the 4-day training workshop, facilitated by the WHO headquarter's diagnostics, laboratory and technology programme, reviews and discussions were conducted on currently available CD4 technologies, quality assurance measures required in CD4 testing, the importance of external quality assessment schemes, selection of CD4 technologies, as well as management of a CD4 testing laboratory.

The workshop resulted in the following recommendations for national authorities.

• Ensure the regular maintenance of CD4 instruments and supply.
• Conduct regular supervision at sites and provide support to laboratory technicians.
• Provide post training follow-up.