Only 1 African country is ready to respond to public health emergencies in Africa, says CDC
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has expressed concern that only one country in Africa is adequately prepared to respond to public health emergencies. Speaking at a recent event to launch a five-year strategic plan aimed at strengthening public health emergency operations centres in Africa, Dr Jean Kaseya, the Director-General of Africa CDC, identified South Africa as the sole African nation currently ready to respond effectively to public health emergencies. He emphasized the urgent need for other member states to enhance their responses, highlighting that the lack of preparedness in other countries puts the entire African region at risk of outbreaks.
Dr Kaseya highlighted the current challenges faced by the Africa region, revealing that it is contending with an average of two to three outbreaks per week. From January to November 2023, a total of 158 public health emergencies were managed, even in the post-COVID-19 era. To address these issues, Dr Kaseya stressed the crucial role of robust Public Health Emergency Operation Centres (PHEOCs) in preventing and responding to outbreaks.
While acknowledging progress in strengthening emergency preparedness and response, Dr Kaseya also noted the existing gaps and disparities. He called for partnerships to implement the ambitious five-year strategic plan, which requires $181 million to achieve its goals. The plan, developed for the period 2023 to 2027, involves collaboration between Africa CDC, the World Health Organization, member states, the UK Health Security Agency, and other development partners.
Dr Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the significance of the strategy in shaping the future of public health in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions. She emphasized the need for a safer, healthier, and more resilient future, in which public health emergencies no longer instill fear due to improved response capabilities.
The estimated budget of $181,837,498 will cover several aspects, including renovating PHEOC facilities, procuring technology equipment, providing allowances for experts, conducting training programs, and establishing regional PHEOCs of excellence.
It is critical for African countries to strengthen their preparedness to respond effectively to public health emergencies. The implementation of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan, supported by collaboration and adequate funding, will be instrumental in ensuring the region’s ability to promptly and effectively tackle outbreaks, safeguarding public health.
