ABIDJAN, April 15 (Xinhua) -- Cote d'Ivoire is set to launch West Africa's first nuclear medicine center in Abidjan, marking a major step in the country's healthcare modernization, officials said on Tuesday.

Ivorian First Lady Dominique Ouattara discussed the project with Alexandre Roquette, director general of the European Cancer Institute in Abidjan.

Roquette said the planned European Center for Nuclear Medicine will be equipped with a cyclotron and PET scan technology, making it the first facility of its kind in the region.

He said the center will improve cancer diagnosis and treatment in Cote d'Ivoire and reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for care.

Ouattara applauded the initiative and efforts to strengthen medical infrastructure and expand access to advanced healthcare services.

The project is expected to enhance early disease detection and improve treatment capacity, positioning Cote d'Ivoire as a regional hub for nuclear medicine. ■