Annual Report 2023: Realizing Africa CDC’s Autonomy Making Measurable Impact in Africa’s Health Security

Message from the Director General

I am delighted to present the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Annual Report 2023, encapsulating the efforts undertaken by Africa CDC over the past year – our second year of autonomy. This period was marked by significant health challenges for the continent, including prolonged Cholera outbreaks in Southern Africa, 2022-2023 Ebola Virus outbreak in Uganda, Marburg virus disease outbreaks in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania, natural disasters, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The achievements detailed in this Annual Report are attributed to the dedication and bravery of our 361 staff, as well as the robust partnerships and unprecedented
support from our donors. We also commend the strong leadership demonstrated by Africa Union Heads of State and Government, committed Ministers of Health, and other national stakeholders. In 2023, notable governance milestones were reached, including the establishment, and convening of meetings for the new Advisory and Technical Council, as well as the constitution of the new Governing Board for Africa CDC.

Key strategic advancements in 2023 included the approval of the 2023 – 2027 Strategic Plan for Africa CDC by the Governing Board. Additionally, there was a strategic realignment of the Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative, a partnership of $1.5 billion between Africa CDC and Mastercard Foundation, to prioritize the vaccination of high-risk populations, integrate COVID-19 response into routine immunization and primary health care, and proactively prepare for potential future pandemics on the continent. The approval of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) and the implementation of PAVM’s strategic priorities also took precedence, focusing on vaccine manufacturing and supply chain capabilities in Africa. The 3rd Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2023) was hosted in Lusaka, Zambia demonstrating the power of a united Africa to break barriers in global health.
As we execute our Africa CDC 2023 – 2027 Strategic Plan, we will concentrate on ensuring that Africa CDC is adequately equipped and staffed with the necessary technical expertise to fulfill its mandate at continental, regional, and country levels.

We have established internal mechanisms to empower our staff, provide training and career growth opportunities, and offer essential support. Furthermore, we are committed to maintaining a robust governance and accountability framework, promoting efficient financial management, accountability, and transparency,
alongside the Africa CDC financial sustainability plan to secure sufficient, predictable, and sustainable funding.
While there are still considerable challenges ahead in recovering from pandemic-related disruptions to health service delivery and access, these, are opportunities to integrate innovative approaches adopted to sustain services during the pandemic into future strategies.
I extend an invitation to all our national, regional, and global partners to join us in realizing this strategic vision and building “The Africa We Want”.
I express gratitude to our Member States and partners for their unwavering support for the 2030 global health sector strategies, which I believe provide a solid foundation for recovery from setbacks and better preparation for future health shocks.