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Africa CDC Reveals Only One African Nation Ready for Public Health Emergencies
- December 3, 2023
- Posted by: Admin
- Category: Health Health tips National Health Daily News update

The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) unveiled a stark reality during a recent event, emphasizing that just one African country is adequately equipped to handle public health emergencies. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, highlighted South Africa as the sole nation prepared for such crises.
Expressing concerns over the lack of readiness across the continent, Dr. Kaseya stressed the urgent need for other African countries to bolster their preparedness measures. He underscored the criticality of this situation, emphasizing that the unpreparedness of multiple nations in Africa poses a significant risk of outbreaks for the entire region.
Dr. Kaseya pointed out that Africa has been combating an average of two to three outbreaks per week, managing a staggering 158 public health emergencies from January to November 2023, even beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. He reiterated the pivotal role of robust Public Health Emergency Operation Centres (PHEOCs) in both preventing and responding to outbreaks.
Despite progress, Dr. Kaseya highlighted existing gaps and called for collaborations to implement a comprehensive five-year strategic plan, requiring $181 million to achieve its goals. The plan, a joint initiative involving Africa CDC, the World Health Organization, member states, the UK Health Security Agency, and other partners, aims to enhance health preparedness and response by establishing PHEOCs in at least 50 African countries.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the transformative impact of the strategy on public health in African and Eastern Mediterranean regions. She envisioned a future with improved response capabilities, ensuring that public health emergencies no longer instill fear due to enhanced preparedness.
The proposed budget will cover diverse aspects, including facility renovations, technology procurement, expert allowances, training programs, and the establishment of regional PHEOCs of excellence. The urgent need to prioritize and recognize PHEOCs was echoed by Heads of State and Government during the 41st Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, emphasizing the necessity for a coordinated continental mechanism to strengthen PHEOCs in Africa.
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