The YES! aims to guide Africa CDC’s long-term engagement with young people and mainstream youths’ participation in its decision-making processes for continental health security. The strategy will serve as a roadmap for amplifying youth voices, fostering youth-led innovation for effective digital health delivery services, and nurturing collaboration between young leaders and the Africa CDC leadership. It will also serve as a blueprint for increasing meaningful engagement of young Africans in Africa’s Public Health sector.

In his remarks, Africa CDC Director General, H. E. Dr Jean Kaseya, expressed his delight at the progress made to finalise the strategy and reiterated his commitment to creating spaces for meaningful youth engagement in Africa CDC structures and platforms. He expressed his desire to have a formal youth fellowship programme at Africa CDC that will pave the way for many more young people to contribute their expertise, knowledge, and energies to the realisation of the New Public Health Order. The DG concluded his remarks with a commitment to submit the final Strategy document for the approval and endorsement of the Africa CDC Governing Board.

The workshop builds on a consultation of young health professionals at the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2023 held on the margins of CPHIA2023 in Lusaka, Zambia, and a comprehensive desk review of existing youth engagement initiatives on health in Africa. The gathering represented the second phase of the strategy development process, focusing on expert review of the draft document and incorporating views and perspectives of Youth from across the continent.

[End]

Media Inquiries

Communication and Public Information (CPI) Directorate, Africa CDC | Email: Communications@africacdc.org

About Africa CDC’s Youth Engagement Initiatives:

With young people making up over 65% of Africa’s population, their meaningful involvement is essential in realizing the Africa CDC’s vision of the New Public Health Order for Africa (NPHO). Acknowledging this, Africa CDC has been engaging African youth through initiatives such as the AU COVID-19 Vaccination Bingwa Initiative, the Africa CDC’s inaugural Youth Advisory Team for Health (YAT4H), and its annual Youth Pre-Conference on the margins of the CPHIA. The Youth Engagement Strategy is expected to further strengthen and institutionalize these engagement efforts and create a favorable policy and legislative environment for youth leadership.

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is a continental autonomous Public Health agency of the African Union which supports Member States in their efforts to strengthen health systems and improve surveillance, emergency response, prevention and control of diseases. Learn more at: http://www.africacdc.org

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I greet you on behalf of the Organization of African First Ladies (“OAFLAD”), of which I am the President, and the First Lady of Zambia being one of the 43 African First Ladies who is a member. We are both here to acknowledge and support the leadership of AFRICA CDC in convening young people and ensuring they are not left out of the important conversations on how Africa intends to shape a new public health order.

OAFLAD is also engaged in what we call a unifying campaign. It’s a continent-wide campaign for gender equality that will be launched by First Ladies, in their respective countries, across the continent. The campaign will focus on the central tenant that WE ARE EQUAL. The focus will be on actions that can be taken to advance equality in the areas of gender-based violence, economic empowerment, education and of course, health. It would be an honour and a privilege to have youth advocates for this campaign, so please let US know if you are interested in being an advocacy partner. Just yesterday, I had the distinct privilege of being in Nairobi, where the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya hosted a very successful and well attended “We are Equal campaign” launch event, which enjoyed the presence of the President of the Republic of Kenya, senior government leaders, as well as 20 000 women from all over Kenya. That speaks to the convening power of First Ladies, and why OAFLAD chose to harness the collective advocacy strength of First Ladies to ignite and advance important societal conversations.

There is no place I would rather be than in this room with all of you today. CPHIA is Africa taking its destiny into its own hands, and the Youth Pre-Conference is how we ensure that the ideas and energy of young people are integrated into this consequential initiative. In addition to networking amongst each other, you also get to network with the rockstars of African public health, powerhouses like Dr Tedros from WHO; Michel Sidibe, the former UNAIDS head; Jean Kaseya, DG of Africa CDC; Amb. John Nkengosang, the head of Pepfar and former Head of Africa CDC; Professor Sennait Fisseha, Vice president of Global Programs at the Susan Buffet Foundation and chief advisor to the WHO DG; Dr Muhamed Ali Pati, the Minister of Health and Social welfare in Nigeria; Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa; Githinji Gitahi, CEO of Amref Health Africa; Dr Kesete Amasu, CEO of Big Win Philanthropy and former Minister of Health in Ethiopia; Dr Magda Robala, president of the Institute for Global Health and Development and many other incredible African public health powerhouses.

These are people you will meet in the corridors. When you see them, please do ask for selfies, as I am sure you will – but also introduce yourself, and your work. Those are your future bosses. Those are the people whose roles you will be taking over one day so they should at least know your name.

Those African public health rockstars are the people whose career paths you should understand and follow. They are also the people who you want to watch how they wield power. [A case study is Dr Tedros and how he has handled the complex and contested issues around Tigray, and Gaza]. These powerhouses in public health are not presidents, and many are not politicians, but they are political. They have access to Presidents, they have institutional powers of their own, and you may want to want to watch how they use their power and proximity to advance Africa’s public health agenda.

Many of you may wonder where you fit in the politics of your respective countries. Some of you may be politically engaged in ruling or opposition parties, and some of you may have given up hope or prefer to be politically neutral for a variety of reasons. I understand those nuances and the exceptions to this statement. There is no right or wrong path because you don’t need to be a politician to lead. As a matter of fact, you don’t need anyone’s permission to lead. However, I want you to consider that politics decides who gets what, and how. Public health is political. The public health rockstars I mentioned are all political creatures. They may not want to be, but to be effective, they have to be. Many even needed political support from their countries to be appointed to the jobs they have now.

Kwame Nkrumah is known to have paraphrased from the bible when he said, “Seek ye first the political kingdom and all else shall be added to you.” The politics-first approach recognizes that politics decides who gets what, and when. If you are not a politician and do not aspire to be, that’s a perfectly fine choice. You, however, don’t have a choice in needing to be political. Politics influences the lives of people. Public health is about people. To get them what they need, when they need it, you must be able to influence politics and politicians.

The Government is required to solve society’s most complex problems. We need our best brains at the table. Who ends up at the table is often determined by politics. This is how many of you are often led by people you went to school with who never paid attention in class.

Whether your power is community mobilization or mandated power from elections, power is power. It is important for those who seek power, whether activists or politicians, to analyze their motives. Activists who end up trading their community power to seek political power without having a plan often end up behaving worse than the politicians they once opposed. Never seek power, any form of power, for the sake of it. Have a plan of what you want to do with it, and stay faithful to that plan, no matter what. As young people interested in public health, your motives are clear: It’s for public health. Public health is political, and to change people’s lives, you do not need to be a politician, but you do need to be politically savvy.

This is why it’s essential that you are here. Youth have power. You need to be able to leverage that power. Each generation sees the world differently, and for your vision and dynamism to shape the future of public health, it must first be seen. Thank you, Africa CDC, for seeing the power of the youth.

As a First Lady, many people see me but don’t really see me. Their eyes are fixed on the power of the President. Has anyone ever shaken your hand without looking at you? That’s what happens to me all the time. I walk behind my husband and I must shake hands after he has passed. Many shake my hand without looking at me. I don’t mind, I understand that power, and proximity to power, is not the same thing.

I also understand that sometimes, not being seen is a superpower as you can watch people silently, without them noticing you are watching. I have a front-row seat in observing how people use their power, and how they act around power. All of you interact with power every day. There are some situations where you have the power and other interactions where you are powerless. The rockstars I referred to have power and some of you are in proximity to that power.

I don’t have power; I have proximity to power. I know what that means and what it doesn’t mean. A lesson I will share during my presentation later on adolescent health is the decision you make around how you use proximity to power. Do you use it to empower yourself and those around you, or do you use it to empower the powerless? Please don’t waste your proximity to power for selfies; because proximity is power in itself, so use it wisely.

I have this discussion of how to leverage politics and power often with young people in Namibia and across the continent, and I am pleased to have it with you today. Not everything on these topics can be said on public platforms, so I look forward to engaging many of you away from the microphones. I feel this is my duty to youth because I have seen how many have been sucked into, and spat out of political circles without optimal usage of their talents.

I have a particular fondness for young people in public health as I understand, as you do, that when public health policy and practice gets it wrong, people die. When public health gets it right, people live. Simply put, being effective at what you do is a matter of life and death.

In recognizing your value and potential as youth, we also recognize the value of partnerships. The journey of youth progress is a collective journey. It is a collaborative effort that requires the alignment of governments, organizations and the driving force of youth-led initiatives. I come from a country committed to fostering partnerships that amplify the voices and contributions of our young people. The Zambian government is known to do the same, and I am proud of Africa CDC for also centering young people in its initiatives.

Our continent faces unique health challenges, from infectious diseases to maternal health and mental well-being. The burden of these challenges falls squarely on the shoulders of the youth. This is why we must empower the youth to be the architects of the solutions and to take charge of their health and the health of their communities.

The youth pre-conference serves as an ideal platform for dialogue, idea exchange, and cultivating relationships, networks, and knowledge. It is a testament to our shared commitment to building a healthier Africa.

Initiatives like the Bingwa Initiative, which focuses on youth engagement and empowerment, are a testament to the tireless efforts of AFRICA CDC in recognizing the importance of youth engagement in public health.

Africa CDC is intentional about harnessing the transformative power of young people and, together with the Youth Advisory Team for Health, we look forward to the impact of this partnership. Dr Kaniki and your team, I have seen your incredible passion for the work that you do and your work ethic; it is inspiring and a reminder of what young people can do when trusted with positions of authority. Young people rely on you to succeed. Thank you Dr. Kaniki for the incredible leadership you have shown.

To the young public health professionals here, I extend a call to action: your energy, creativity, and commitment are the driving forces that will propel us towards a healthier future. You do not need anyone’s permission to lead. Become advocates and provide leadership for health within your communities.

The transformative power of innovation and technology cannot be overstated. I challenge each of you to harness the tools at your disposal for creative solutions to our health challenges.

As we engage in the discussions over the next two days, I implore you to actively participate, contribute, share insights and propose actionable solutions. The Africa CDC Youth pre-conference is not just a gathering. It’s a collective endeavour to shape the public health narrative on our beloved continent.

In closing, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for your commitment in advancing public health in Africa. I also thank the organizers for creating a platform that centres and amplifies the voices of young people. Public health is not easy. Social, political, religious and fiscal determinants of health impact access and equity to health. There is also you, the people who understand that our health is interlinked and must be accessible and equitable for everyone. This is how we build a healthier and more resilient Africa. Thank you.

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The four-day gathering presented an exceptional opportunity for African scientists, researchers, policymakers, and advocates to exchange valuable perspectives and unveil significant research findings in the realm of public health, which are pertinent to improving global health security. It featured global leaders and high-level speakers, including H.E. Hakainde Hichilema, President of Zambia, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), among other policy experts, and emerging researchers from around the world.

Key discussions across multiple sessions during the conference highlighted the complexities and challenges that Africa faces in its health security, as many speakers echoed the call for the continent to change the narrative of global health decision making and use the opportunity at hand – to chart a new course, create health systems capable of withstanding the inevitable shocks. They also emphasized the need to reposition the continent to a place befitting of its status in the global health architecture.

Convened by the Africa CDC and hosted by the government of Zambia CPHIA 2023 featured 9 plenary and 18 parallel sessions, several high-level special sessions, 18 abstract driven sessions, and over 100 side events. The in-person conference commenced following a 3-day virtual programming, which included 18 virtual abstract sessions and more than 30 virtual side events.

See key highlights below:

Cross-section of delegates at CPHIA closing ceremony

The conference concluded with a rallying call for participants to ensure discussions at CPHIA 2023 translates into actions that would strengthen health systems across the continent. Three annual awards were announced during the opening and closing ceremonies at CPHIA 2023:

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, received the Lifetime Achievement in Public Health Award.  This award is given to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to public health and health research on the African continent. Dr. Tedros was recognized for his commitment to ensuring access to healthcare, promoting equity, and tackling emerging health threats, including his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Namubiru Saudah Kizito of Uganda received the award for this year’s Best Oral Abstract Presentation. Dr. Saudah, an Advanced Field Epidemiology Fellow at the Uganda National Institute of Public Health (UNIPH), delivered a presentation titled “Increasing trends of antibiotic resistance in Uganda, 2018–2021.”Dr. Joseph Fokam of Cameroon received the award for this year’s Best Abstract Poster Presentation. Dr Fokam is a Virologist at Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB/FHS-UB). His abstract is titled “Emerging integrase resistance in dolutegravir-treated individuals calls for more cautious use of dolutegravir-containing regimens in resource limited settings.”

For media enquiries please contact:

Dorothy Njagi | Senior Communication Officer- Communication & Public Information directorate | Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention| African Union| email: email: njagid@africacdc.org  | Website: www.africacdc.org| Addis Ababa| Ethiopia| Facebook | Twitter

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1st December 2023, Lusaka, Zambia – The 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2023) – the annual conference of the African Union and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) closed in Lusaka, Zambia, on 30 November, after four days of official conference sessions and side events featuring high-level health and policy experts, emerging researchers and advocates from around the world.

CPHIA 2023’s closing ceremony included remarks from Acting President of Zambia, Mrs Mutale Nalumango; Director General of the Africa CDC, H.E. Jean Kaseya and Minister of Health of  Zambia, Hon. Sylvia Masebo.  speakers reflected on the conference theme, “Breaking Barriers: Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Architecture,” and called on participants to ensure discussions at CPHIA 2023 translate into actions that would strengthen health systems across the continent.

“At CPHIA 2023, I observed an extraordinary movement of African scientists, policymakers, civil society, NGOs,  healthcare workers and a hundred other categories of health professionals coming together in a way that we never have before,  at a gathering organized by ourselves, at home here in Africa,” said H.E. Dr. Kaseya in his closing remarks. “Together, we are truly breaking barriers in global health.”

More than 5,100 participants from 90 countries joined the conference in person, and more than 30,000 watched the livestream. The conference featured nine plenary sessions, 18 parallel sessions, 18 abstract-driven sessions, three special sessions and 97 side events. There were also 197 poster presentations and 50 exhibition booths on site. The in-person event commenced three days after packed virtual programming sessions which took place a week before, with an additional 18 abstract-driven sessions and 33 side events online.

“From the diverse sessions under different tracks to the myriad side events, oral and poster sessions, and the hallway conversations, each has imparted new insights,” said Prof. Margaret Gyapong, CPHIA 2023Co-Chair and Director of the Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Applied Sciences. “By sharing this platform, with like-minded disruptors, all driven by a common goal of ‘Breaking Barriers,’ I have no doubt we will be able to drive extraordinary progress.”

Three annual awards were announced during the opening and closing ceremonies at CPHIA 2023:

• Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, received the Lifetime Achievement in Public Health Award.  This award is given to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to public health and health research on the African continent. Dr. Tedros was recognised for his commitment to ensuring access to healthcare, promoting equity, and tackling emerging health threats, including his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Dr. Namubiru Saudah Kizito of Uganda received the award for this year’s Best Oral Abstract Presentation. Dr. Saudah, an Advanced Field Epidemiology Fellow at the Uganda National Institute of Public Health (UNIPH), delivered a presentation titled “Increasing trends of antibiotic resistance in Uganda, 2018–2021.”
• Dr. Joseph Fokam of Cameroon received the award for this year’s Best Abstract Poster Presentation. Dr Fokam is a Virologist at Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB/FHS-UB). His abstract is titled “Emerging integrase resistance in dolutegravir-treated individuals calls for more cautious use of dolutegravir-containing regimens in resource-limited settings.”

“Various platforms and round table discussions highlighted the complexities, and challenges that Africa faces in public health,” said Acting President Mrs Nalumango in her closing remarks. “Though our public health challenges are many and diverse, we remain hopeful that there is an opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and change.”

H.E. Dr. Kaseya also announced that the fourth edition of the CPHIA 2024 conference will take place next year in Morocco. This will be the first time the conference is held in North Africa.

“CPHIA is a testament to the seismic shift that has happened and what is possible when we stay relentlessly focused on investing in our public health infrastructure and institutions,” Prof. Senait Fisseha, CPHIA 2023 Co-Chair and Vice President of Global Programs, Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation. “We are remaking the global health architecture brick by brick, so that it finally meets our needs and serves our institutions and people – and CPHIA marks just the beginning.”

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Media contacts

CPHIA 2023 Secretariat CPHIAcomms@africa-union.org

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), is the continental autonomous Health agency of the African Union that strengthens the capacity and capability of Africa’s public health institutions as well as partnerships to detect and respond quickly and effectively to disease threats and outbreaks, based on data-driven interventions and programmes. Learn more at: http://www.africacdc.org  — END —

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H.E Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, Prime Minister of the Republic of Namibia

Hon Sylvia Masebo, Minister of Health, Zambia

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, World Health Organization

Prof Margaret Gyapong, Director of the Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) and CPHIA 2023 Co-Chair

Distinguished Guests,Ladies and Gentlemen,

I stand before you today with a profound sense of honor and privilege as we gather for the 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our host, the Government of Zambia, who has been an excellent partner in shaping this year’s conference.

The theme of this year  underscores a fundamental truth: that health is not only a matter of medical science but also of policy, equity, and global cooperation. 

Breaking barriers requires us to think beyond the confines of traditional healthcare models. It beckons us to harness technology’s power, embrace equity and social justice principles, and foster robust collaborations that span borders and disciplines. It demands a concerted effort to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable among us.

It challenges us to look the barriers that have long impeded Africa’s progress in public health and calls upon us to redefine our position in the global health architecture. Together, we can break, and we will break the barriers that have hindered our progress for far too long and we can forge a new public health order for Africa—one that is resilient, equitable, and capable of meeting the challenges of the future. 

This conference is significant, marking the eve of Africa CDC’s one-year anniversary as an autonomous institution of the African Union. 

Africa CDC has established itself as the premium public health institution of the continent, guided by the visionary leadership of African Heads of State and government. Under this stewardship, Africa CDC has emerged as a beacon of hope and progress, working tirelessly to enhance the health and well-being of the African people. As we gather here today, we not only celebrate this remarkable milestone, but also recognize our Heads of State and Government for their remarkable leadership.

African leaders, including President Hichilema – here present, President Ramaphosa, President Ruto, and others, echoed the need for changes in the global financial architecture. This year’s theme challenges all of us to assess the long-standing barriers that have hindered Africa’s progress in public health. It urges us to reevaluate our stance within the global health architecture.

Under the guidance of His Excellency, H.E President Hichilema, who serves as our champion for Public Health Emergency Operations Centers, Africa CDC has made significant progress. The number of countries with functional PHEOCs will increase from 12 to 32.

His leadership serves as a remarkable model for all of us, and we find inspiration in his unwavering commitment and results-driven approach. As a testament to his exceptional leadership, the President has decided to allocate land and provide financial support for constructing the headquarters of the Africa CDC Southern Regional Coordinating Center.

Under the leadership of our African Heads of State and Government and with the backing of H.E Moussa Faki, the Chairperson of the African Union, I, in my role as the Director-General of Africa CDC, fully dedicated to the realisation of a New Public Health Order for Africa. This vison aims to redefine the healthcare landscape of our continent. It serves as our comprehensive plan for a new era, one where the well-being and prosperity of each and every African are safeguarded, preserved, and improved.

We aim to realise this bold vision and reshape the healthcare landscape of our continent through a strong emphasis on the 5Cs: Community, Connectivity, Capacity, Collaboration, and Climate.

FIRST, COMMUNITY: 

Communities are the foundation upon which a healthier Africa will be built. 

It is disturbing to note that 38 out of the 40 countries with the highest maternal mortality rates are in Africa.

This highlights the pressing need to strengthen the resilience of our communities. To achieve that, we need to manage the looming crisis with a huge gap of community health workers that Africa is facing. This gap may worsen if the existing community health workers continue to go unpaid and encounter a lack of standardisation.

Therefore, Africa CDC is promoting the agenda of 2 million paid and integrated Community Health Workers on the continent by 2030. This concerted initiative will place communities at the forefront of our efforts.

CLIMATE

On average, Africa has 2 new outbreaks per week, totalling more than 100 outbreaks per year. 75% of these outbreaks are zoonotic in origin and worsened by climate change.

As I speak, we have 18 countries affected by cholera with more than 4,000 deaths. We have multiple West African countries affected by dengue. The flooding in a number of countries including Libya, the earthquake in Morocco and a number of other natural disasters are showing the linkage of climate change and health in Africa.

According to the Africa Development Bank, the continent loses 5-15% of its GDP annually due to the impacts of climate change.

Therefore, Africa CDC is committed to supporting African countries to adopt a comprehensive One-health approach to tackle these climate-related challenges. 

CONNECTIVITY

Inadequate connectivity in Africa is leading for under notification of outbreaks. 

The rapid evolution of digital technology offers us an unprecedented opportunity to reshape the way we conduct our work. 

By leveraging the digital advancements, including artificial intelligence, we can enhance our ability to detect emerging health threats, optimize resource allocation, and ultimately improve the well-being of our communities. 

Connectivity will enable us to bridge geographical gaps and create a network of knowledge and information exchange. It will also empower us to address public health challenges with better efficiency and effectiveness.

CAPACITY

Less than 10% of African countries are able to respond to a major outbreak with skilled health workforce.

Africa requires 6,000 field epidemiologists, yet, we currently only have 1,900. Additionally, the continent needs 25,000 frontline epidemiologists, but we presently have just 5,000.

Africa CDC has introduced numerous programs and initiatives, such as Africa Volunteers Health Corps, Kofi Annan, and the Field Epidemiology Training Program, to bridge this gap.

The excessive dependence on imports for essential healthcare products is also a matter of grave concern. Less than 1% of vaccines, 5% of diagnostics and 30% of therapeutics used in Africa are currently manufactured in Africa. This imbalance underscores the urgent need to strengthen our medical manufacturing capabilities to enhance self-reliance and reduce vulnerability to supply disruptions.

Hence, Africa CDC is advocating for an ambitious agenda that aims to ensure that by 2040, a minimum of 60% of vaccines and medicines used in Africa are manufactured within the continent.

As I have to say it, local manufacturing is the 2^nd independence of Africa, because it will mitigate our reliance on external sources, build our health security, promote local innovation, and lead for job creation, economic growth, peace and security. 

COLLABORATION

Collaboration is the key driver of progress and innovation in all human endeavours. The level of collaboration we have achieved is made possible by the support of our communities, member states, donors, and diverse partners. We thank all of them.

Today, I’m delighted to announce a significant development in our partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the  “Saving Lives and Livelihoods”, where we are moving into Phase Two to better support countries to be well prepared for the next pandemic. This partnership, in its second phase will extend its reach and impact beyond immediate healthcare responses to cultivate a sustainable healthcare ecosystem and building capacity of Africa CDC.

It’s essential to recognize that no single entity, whether a government agency, healthcare provider, NGO, or academic institution, can effectively address the diverse challenges we confront in isolation. In our interconnected world, collaboration, where we pool our expertise and work collectively, is the linchpin for safeguarding and enhancing population health. Together, across different actors, sectors, and geographies, we can accomplish far more than in isolation.

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen;

Over the weekend, we hosted the Youth Pre-Conference 2023, bringing together young minds and voices. As the First Lady of Namibia reminded us yesterday; the energy, vitality, and potential our young people bring to our continent are truly our most valuable asset. Beyond encouraging active participation, we believe the Youth Pre-Conference 2023 planted the seeds to propel Africa’s vibrant youth into key players in public health. 

We are also deeply committed to advancing gender equity, viewing it as a foundational principle deeply ingrained in our mission. We firmly believe that gender equity isn’t solely a matter of social justice but is also a fundamental driver of prosperity and overall societal well-being. As a testament to our commitment, I pledge to actively work towards increasing the representation of women at decision-making tables, recognising the pivotal role they play in shaping our collective future.

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen;

As I conclude my remarks, I sincerely thank you, Your Excellencies, for your extraordinary contributions to public health. Leadership is essential. It requires foresight, courage, and a profound sense of responsibility to prioritise the health and welfare of a nation’s people.

As we embark on this transformative journey, let us remember the words of Nelson Mandela, who once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Let this conference be the vessel where we transform the impossible into the achievable. Let it be the platform where we unite our collective knowledge, passion, and determination to chart a course towards a healthier, more equitable Africa.

In the coming days, I encourage each and every one of you to engage in thoughtful and spirited discussions, to challenge the status quo, and to forge innovative solutions that transcend boundaries. Let us leave no stone unturned in our quest to reposition Africa as a formidable force in the global health landscape. This is the spirit that guides us.

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It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today at the opening of the Youth Pre-Conference on the margins of the 3rd Annual International Conference on Public Health in Africa. This gathering marks a momentous occasion —a celebration of youth leadership, innovation, and commitment to building a Safer and Healthier Africa.

As we embark on this unprecedented Youth Pre-Conference, we are witnessing an epochal development in public health governance on the African continent. This conference, convened with the theme “Youth Leadership for a Safer and Healthier Africa,” underscores the pivotal role that the youth must play in shaping the health security of our continent.

Youth, constituting around 65% of Africa’s population, are recognized throughout history for their enthusiasm, innovativeness, and energy. Still, actual youth involvement in critical decision-making processes needs to improve, despite this recognition. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has magnified the urgency for change. In addition to promoting engagement, the Youth Pre-Conference 2023 aims to saw the seed that propel Africa’s vibrant youth into public health leadership roles.

Excellencies, esteemed youth delegates, Ladies and gentlemen,

We are here because we recognize that a Safer and Healthier Africa extends beyond the absence of war and blurred socio-economic disparities. It is about achieving a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, as exemplified by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has been a harsh teacher, emphasising the need for a robust health infrastructure and resilient health systems.

In the face of these challenges, the Africa CDC, in alignment with the New Public Health Order for Africa, has launched the Youth Advisory Team for Health (YAT4H) and organised this Youth Pre-Conference to amplify the voices and perspectives of young change-makers. This is not just an acknowledgement of your potential but a recognition of your ability to drive transformative change.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the power of youth-led initiatives, such as the African Union COVID-19 Vaccination Bingwa Initiative. Young Africans took charge, leading grassroots drives that contributed to the increased vaccination rates across the continent. Your efforts in addressing not only the vaccine distribution challenges but also the broader infodemic of false information showcased the tremendous power of young champions in shaping Africa’s health agenda. Young Africans were also at the forefront of innovating and developing novel solutions to the challenges faced by communities during the pandemic. Bingwa is not just about advocating for vaccinations; it’s about fostering a sense of ownership, empowerment, and a collective commitment to public health.

I am thrilled to announce that this year’s Youth Pre-Conference and the main Annual International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) will feature an impressive array of poster presentations from remarkable young Africans. These presentations will showcase our emerging leaders’ ingenuity and groundbreaking research, both at the forefront of the Youth Pre-Conference and within the broader discussions at CPHIA. This platform provides an invaluable opportunity for these young minds to share their discoveries, innovations, and insights, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration that will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Africa. And this platform offers a chance for the elder generations to listen and learn from our youth. The commitment to showcasing the achievements of our youth underscores our belief in the transformative power that young professionals hold in shaping the future of public health on the continent.

As we celebrate the achievements of young leaders, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. “Meaningful participation” is not just about having a seat at the table; it’s about entrusting the youth with genuine decision-making responsibilities. We must cultivate ecosystems that enable young individuals to initiate, nurture, and lead their own platforms, fostering a culture of true youth leadership.

Moreover, we must recognize the vast spectrum of youth experiences. We must recognise and address the unique challenges faced by individual subsets within this demographic, including young women, those living with disabilities, migrant populations, and other marginalized groups. Only by embracing this diversity can we truly make progress.

The digital revolution, while promising, comes with its own set of barriers. Lack of access to diverse and local funding sources, limited representation, and the need for skills development are challenges we must overcome to ensure sustainable growth for young innovators and researchers. One of the New Public Health Order’s pivotal pillars is the commitment to increased domestic resources for health security. Therefore, by mobilizing fundraising and allocating resources effectively, we aspire to overcome these persistent barriers. The New Public Health Order recognizes that fostering an environment conducive to innovation requires not only financial backing but also a comprehensive approach to skills development and equitable representation.

Excellencies, esteemed youth delegates, Ladies and gentlemen,

Africa stands in need of role models and inspirations who can serve as guiding lights for our youth. They exemplify the values, virtues, and achievements that young individuals aspire to in their own lives. Role models are living examples of what can be achieved through dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to positive values.

Today, I wish to extend my recognition to two remarkable individuals, our distinguished First Ladies, who grace this occasion with their presence and exemplify the ideals that our young African people can look up to and emulate.

Firstly, let me extend our heartfelt appreciation to Madam Mutinta Hichilema, the First Lady of Zambia, for her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes and her active engagement in community development programs across Zambia. Madam Mutinta Hichilema’s dedication to uplifting the lives of her fellow citizens is commendable. She also serves as the Ambassador of the Merck Foundation’s “More Than a Mother” Campaign, highlighting the vital role of women in society beyond motherhood. Her advocacy for religious tolerance and interfaith harmony in Zambia is another testament to her commitment to unity and understanding among people of different faiths. Her initiatives aimed at promoting social cohesion and national development reflect her deep concern for the well-being of her nation.

Our second guest of honor is the esteemed First Lady of Namibia, Monica Geingos, a figure of outstanding influence and leadership. Notably, she currently serves as the President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), a role that underscores her commitment to advancing the socio-economic development of our continent. Mrs. Geingos also holds the distinguished position of being the UNAIDS Special Advocate for Young Women and Adolescent Girls, where her tireless efforts promote the health and rights of the youth. Her involvement in the Virchow Foundation for Global Health and the WomenLift Global Advisory Board further demonstrates her dedication to global public health and the empowerment of women in leadership.

Mrs. Geingos has earned international recognition, being ranked among the “100 Most Reputable Africans” and one of the “100 Most Influential African Women” by various international organizations and publications. Her two-time receipt of the Dususu awards for her work on adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights stands as a testament to her impactful contributions in this crucial area.

I have had the privilege of knowing Mrs. Geingos personally during my time in Namibia, where I observed her remarkable qualities firsthand. She brings a wealth of experience to her roles, with over two decades of expertise in the financial sector, having held senior positions in capital markets, corporate finance, and private equity. Her dedication and achievements were recognised with National Honors awarded by Former President Pohamba, acknowledging her outstanding contribution to the socio-economic development of Namibia.

Excellencies, esteemed youth delegates, Ladies and gentlemen,

In conclusion, the youth’s energy, innovation, and commitment are indispensable for achieving a Safer and Healthier Africa. The Youth Pre-Conference is a call to action for young Africans to take the architect position for the continent’s health future. By recognising and empowering you all, we can guide Africa towards a tomorrow that is not only safer and healthier but also one where the youth plays a central role in shaping the destiny of our beloved continent.

I want to use this opportunity to extend my gratitude to my Africa CDC colleagues and all partners like MCF, GIZ and others who contributed to the organisation of this event.

I look forward to witnessing the incredible impact that will undoubtedly arise from the discussions and initiatives that will emerge from this Youth Pre-Conference. Together, let us build a healthier and safer Africa for all.

The post H.E. DG’s Opening Remarks for the Africa CDC’s Youth Pre-Conference: appeared first on Africa CDC.

The aim of the fellowship is to build a cohort of journalists across the continent with skills in the nuances of health reporting, which is expected to enhance public health discourse, promote knowledge dissemination, and strengthen accountability for health policies and programmes. Fellows will gain skills to help bridge the information gap, combat health misinformation, and raise awareness around key health issues.

The 40 fellows were chosen from a pool of more than 800 applicants, through a rigorous and competitive selection process. Fellows were chosen based on their compelling submissions and commitment to elevating public health reporting on the continent.

Over a six month period, the fellows will participate in trainings based on a multifaceted curriculum blending the intersection of public health and journalism. The fellows will also receive extensive mentorship from seasoned journalists and media professionals to enhance their skills, and will have the opportunity to attend conference sessions and press briefings and to interview public health experts attending CPHIA 2023.

In welcoming the fellows to the programme, Prof. Margaret Gyapong, Director, Institute of Health Research and Co-chair of CPHIA 2023 said, “We are extremely proud to kickstart the CPHIA Journalism Fellowship Programme and to welcome our inaugural fellows. I implore the fellows to utilise the opportunity the fellowship will provide them to develop skills and networks that will advance their work, improve coverage of public health issues across the continent, and help us achieve the new public health order.’’

Dr Benjamin Djoudalbaye, Head of Policy, Health Diplomacy and Communication at Africa CDC, said, ‘’The CPHIA Journalism Fellowship Programme was borne out of the desire to build a network of specialist health reporters that understand the importance of public health communications, which we believe will improve coverage of health issues in African media. We look forward to supporting the inaugural fellows over the next six months and beyond to improve their skills and report on highly important public health challenges, solutions and innovations in Africa.’’

The CPHIA Journalism Fellowship Programme will be delivered in partnership with AllAfrica.com, one of the official media partners for CPHIA 2023. Juanita Williams, Managing Editor at AllAfrica.com, said, ‘’This programme has been designed to provide critical skills to the fellows through a combination of training, mentorship, and on-the-ground experience. We have taken into account the needs and challenges of public health reporting on the continent, and have developed the fellowship curriculum to address the gaps and challenges that many health reporters face. We look forward to undergoing this journey with the fellows and supporting them during and after the fellowship.’’

Please meet the CPHIA 2023 Journalism fellows.

For additional information about the conference and to register for the event, please visit www.cphia2023.com.

###

Media contacts

CPHIA 2023 Comms

CPHIAcomms@africa-union.org

Nekerwon Gweh

Communication & Media Engagement, Africa CDC

GwehN@africa-union.org

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), is the continental autonomous Health agency of the African Union that strengthens the capacity and capability of Africa’s public health institutions as well as partnerships to detect and respond quickly and effectively to disease threats and outbreaks, based on data-driven interventions and programmes. Learn more at: http://www.africacdc.org  — END —

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Leveraging youth engagement for the Success of the New Public Health Order for Africa

African youth constitute over 65% of the African population, and behind this number are young health professionals and health advocates who hold great potential to innovate and advance Africa’s health. They play a critical role in African countries in promoting public health and reaching communities and thus, are partners, assets, and a prerequisite for the successful implementation of Africa CDC’s New Public Health Order for Africa and driving health security on the continent and internationally.

Acknowledging this, Africa CDC has been engaging African youth through initiatives such as the AU COVID-19 Vaccination Bingwa Initiative and Africa CDC’s inaugural Youth Advisory Team for Health (YAT4H). Another key element of Africa CDC’s youth engagement efforts is its Youth Conference, an annual event that brings together young people from across the African continent to discuss and strategize on issues related to health. The conference provides a platform for young people to engage with public health experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders to share ideas, experiences, and best practices in addressing health challenges on the continent.

The inaugural Youth Pre-Conference was held on 10–11 December 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda prior to the 2^nd annual International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) 2022. Its aim was to kick-start a long-term strategic engagement between Africa CDC and young people to advance sustainable health security in Africa. Participants of the conference called for inclusive youth engagement, youth involvement in decision-making, facilitation of a collaborative intracontinental network, and building the capacity of emerging public health leaders to advance sustainable health security in Africa.

Against this background and reflecting its commitment to meaningfully engage young people, The second edition of Africa CDC’s Youth Pre Conference (YPC 2023), with the theme “Youth Leadership for a safer and healthier Africa”, will be held in an in-person format on 25–26 November in Lusaka, Zambia, prior to the 3^rd CPHIA (CPHIA 2023). Its aim is to continue and intensify the conversation on youth engagement at Africa CDC and to provide a platform for exchange on innovative solutions to institutionalise youth leadership in public health on African the continent.

Objective and Expected Outcomes 

General Objective

The overall goal of the Africa CDC Youth Pre Conference is to advance and institutionalise the strategic engagement between Africa CDC and young people by providing a space for young people to critically reflect on the current state of public health in Africa; share perspectives on the role of young people in public health; and exchange on prospects and innovative solutions to enhance meaningful youth engagement in this area.

Specific Objectives

Provide a collaborative, open and inclusive space for young people to:

1. Reflect: build a thorough understanding of the current state of public health in Africa and the role of young people in this area;
2. Strategize: define the role of young people in driving innovative solutions to health challenges in their communities and strategize how youth can actively participate in decision-making processes that affect their health and wellbeing and take on leadership roles in the health sector;
3. Exchange and brainstorm: explore innovative solutions to health challenges and to institutionalising youth leadership in public health on the African continent;
4. Network and collaborate: unite and share their reflections and work on public health and network with peers, public health figures, and mentors (intergenerational as well as peer-to-peer dialogue) to share lessons and experiences on youth engagement in public health;
5. Connect: bridge the gap between youth and organisations/initiatives across the continent working on public health in Africa.

Output

A long-term and institutionalised youth engagement to advance Africa CDC goals, the Vision for the New Public Health Order and health security in Africa.

Outcomes

1. Young people understand the current state of public health in Africa (incl. Africa CDC goals and its New Public Health Order).
2. The role of youth in driving sustainable change in the health outcomes of their communities is defined and feedback is provided on Africa CDC youth engagement initiatives such as the Youth Conference, AU Bingwa Initiative and YAT4H.
3. Participants are able to advise on how Africa CDC can institutionalise youth leadership and engagement in the African public health sphere.
4. A space is provided for young Africans in public health to unite, to share their reflections and work on public health and to network with peers, public health figures, and find mentors (incl. intergenerational conversation/exchange with experts).
5. The Africa CDC Youth Conference has served as a platform to bridge the gap between youth and organisations/initiatives working on public health in Africa.

Proposed Framework

The 2023 Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference will take place in-person from 25–26 November 2023 in Lusaka, Zambia. The agenda will include TEDx style talks, workshops, networking and cultural exchange spaces, presentations, and small working groups.

Participant Selection

Participants of the Youth Pre Conference will be representatives of each AU Member State as well as public health institutions, health organisations and start-ups, as well as youth-led medical associations and networks.

They will be identified through an open call that will be administered through an online application system. The selection of participants will be based on the following criteria:

Selection Criteria

• Age: 18 to 35 years
• Location: Applicants must be a citizen of an AU member State
• Experience and expertise: have an educational background (at least enrolled as undergraduate) and first professional experiences in the following areas: medical sciences public health/environmental health technology health
  • policy public service and health development cooperation media and journalism (with a focus on health)
  • Extensive work experience in public health may be used to supplement the application for those who hold degrees unrelated to health sciences or public health.
• Leadership: participants with demonstrated leadership potential through involvement in youth-led health initiatives, advocacy or community organizing will be prioritised.
• Networks: Participants will be selected from youth-led and -oriented organisations and networks, associations, academia or in individual capacities. Young participants affiliated with a youth-led organisation, network or movement are highly encouraged to apply.
• Commitment: Youth participants must demonstrate a strong commitment to public health engagement in Africa as an advocate or a practitioner.
• Other factors: geographical balance (representation of all AU Member States), diverse ideological and professional backgrounds, gender, ethnic and social diversity, disability status, will be considered in the final selection of participants.

The application shall be opened by 26^th June 2023. The deadline is 25^th July 2023, 11:59 pm East Africa Time. The selected applicants will be contacted by 25^th August 2023.

How to Apply:

Applicants for the 2023 Africa CDC Youth Pre Conference are expected to fill out the application form online with their personal information, educational and professional background attaching:  

• A Statement briefly detailing why they want to participate in the Africa CDC Youth Pre Conference, highlighting the role of the youth in advancing sustainable health security in Africa,
• An example of a time when they led a project or demonstrated leadership skills within the public health space,
• A curriculum vitae.

Please find this link for application: https://forms.gle/21yo3sbVNvWqDEA66.

While completing your application please keep the following in mind:

• Exceeding the word count for your essay responses will disadvantage your application.  Ensure your essay responses are within 150-250 words.
• You will not be able to change any elements of your application after submission.  Before you submit, make sure that all your answers are accurate and the files you have uploaded are the final versions of your documents.
• Complete the form in one sitting to avoid losing your responses. We also suggest writing text responses (e.g., your public health work experience and qualifications) on a separate document and pasting it here after you finish

Working Languages

The conference language is English and French. Interpretation will be provided for both languages.
La version francaise de l’application ci jointe en PDF.

Contact Details of the Coordinating Team 

1. Dr. Chrys Promesse Kaniki, Africa CDC, Senior Technical Officer for Strategic Programmes: KanikiC@africa-union.org
2. Ms. Huong Le, GIZ Office to the African Union, Advisor: huong.le@giz.de

The post Call for Applications: 2023 Africa CDC Youth Pre Conference (#YPC2023) appeared first on Africa CDC.

As highlighted in the conference discussions, the future of health in Africa will be a story of hope and obstacles. The continent has come a long way toward realising the African Union’s New Public Health Order since 2020 but disease outbreaks are on the rise; climate change, food insecurity, population growth and political instability bring new health risks; and too many lives are still being lost to preventable diseases.

While CPHIA 2021 was focused on lessons learned from the pandemic, CPHIA 2022 built upon those discussions to more concretely identify what we need to secure a healthier future for the continent. The second edition of the conference was an opportunity to check on progress since 2021, including in the areas of vaccine manufacturing capacity, innovative financing solutions like public-private partnerships and digital technologies for health.

CPHIA 2022 also went beyond COVID-19, offering dedicated tracks focused on addressing the unfinished agenda of HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, neglected tropical diseases and other infectious diseases, as well as non-communicable diseases and accidents. It also elevated issues of equity and inclusion, dedicating whole tracks to women in health and expanding Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Africa.

One key takeaway from CPHIA 2022 is that in order to drive sustainable progress, Africa must own the tools of response. With innovation, respectful partnerships, local ownership and investment, we can take advantage of this critical opportunity to accelerate African-led research into scalable solutions for the continent.

Convenings hosted on the continent, such as CPHIA, are part of the solution. We are grateful to the African Union and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) for their leadership in improving public health in Africa, including by spearheading this conference. We also thank the Rwanda Ministry of Health and Rwanda Biomedical Centre for serving as the CPHIA 2022 hosts, and the members of the Scientific Programme Committee and the Secretariat for their constant support and contributions in planning this conference.

We are thrilled that Zambia will serve as the host for CPHIA 2023 so we can keep building on this extraordinary movement. We hope to see you there!
We are thrilled that Zambia will serve as the host for CPHIA 2023 so we can keep building on this extraordinary movement. We hope to see you there!

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