Western Africa Archives – Africa CDC https://africacdc.org/region/western-africa/ Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention Mon, 13 May 2024 12:42:04 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://africacdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/cropped-fav-32x32.png Western Africa Archives – Africa CDC https://africacdc.org/region/western-africa/ 32 32 Meeting Report: United in the Fight Against Mpox in Africa High-level Emergency Regional Meeting https://africacdc.org/download/meeting-report-united-in-the-fight-against-mpox-in-africa-high-level-emergency-regional-meeting/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=meeting-report-united-in-the-fight-against-mpox-in-africa-high-level-emergency-regional-meeting Sat, 11 May 2024 15:21:01 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=wpdmpro&p=17453 Executive summary From April 11-13, 2024, a ‘High-Level Emergency Regional Meeting on Mpox in Africa’ was convened by Africa CDC in collaboration with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and multiple other partners, including CEPI, WHO, UNICEF, INSP, and US Government among others. This report highlights key findings from 9 technical sessions. The high-level ministerial […]

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Executive summary

From April 11-13, 2024, a ‘High-Level Emergency Regional Meeting on Mpox in Africa’ was convened by Africa CDC in collaboration with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and multiple other partners, including CEPI, WHO, UNICEF, INSP, and US Government among others. This report highlights key findings from 9 technical sessions.
The high-level ministerial meeting brought together over 05 Ministers of Health and delegates from 11 AU Member States (1)
To share the latest research and insights on Mpox, including its epidemiology, transmission, and prevention strategies (2)
To review and enhance existing response frameworks and collaboration mechanisms among affected countries (3)
To foster partnerships and coordinate efforts with international health organizations and donors for effective outbreak response and management including vaccination and, (4)
To develop a comprehensive action plan for Mpox surveillance, control, and prevention across the continent.

The high-level emergency meeting recognized the need for timely, accurate, and quality information on mpox situation in Africa to inform decision-making, program interventions, monitoring, and evaluations for the fight against mpox in Africa. The Ministers of Health of Angola, Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Uganda, and partners emphasized the urgent need for strengthened preparedness and response to mpox in the African Union Member States, highlighting the need for cross-border integrated disease surveillance and a coordinated regional approach. It called for partners to harmonize support and interact with the African Taskforce for mpox coordination to fulfill mandates.

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Africa CDC – UNICEF Consultation Workshop to Support Country Plan Development https://africacdc.org/news-item/africa-cdc-unicef-consultation-workshop-to-support-country-plan-development/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=africa-cdc-unicef-consultation-workshop-to-support-country-plan-development Sat, 11 May 2024 14:53:00 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=news-item&p=17450 With over 70 delegates from 20 member states, the Africa CDC in collaboration with UNICEF organized a workshop at the African Union Commission from 6 to 10 April 2024 to support member states to plan, mobilise resources and implement strategies to realize Universal Health Coverage with a focus on improving immunisation, recruiting and retaining community […]

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With over 70 delegates from 20 member states, the Africa CDC in collaboration with UNICEF organized a workshop at the African Union Commission from 6 to 10 April 2024 to support member states to plan, mobilise resources and implement strategies to realize Universal Health Coverage with a focus on improving immunisation, recruiting and retaining community health workers to improve Primary Health Care at the community level, while enhancing public health emergency preparedness and response on the continent.
Member States were represented by primary health care experts and community health directors, immunization heads and emergency public health experts.
“Let us recognise that our collective efforts and innovative thinking will significantly impact the way we will address the pressing health issues in Africa,” said Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, praising the experts for their painstaking discussions on how to sustainably grow numbers community health workers on the continent.
In the spirit of unity and shared thoughts committed to transform the healthcare landscapes across our continent, Dr Kaseya paid tribute to the dedication and expertise of health experts in the 5-day meeting committed to shape Africa’s improved health.

“The objective is clear,” said Omar Abdi, Deputy Executive Director of Programmes, UNICEF. “We have a target to train, to deploy and support health workers in Africa,” he said adding UNICEF and Africa CDC had the commitment to bring an additional half a million healthcare workers to 2 million already agreed by the African Union Heads of State.
Abdi said meeting the target had a bearing on how the continent would perform during public health emergencies and how it would positively impact reducing morbidity and mortality among children.
“The task at hand is crucial but timely since we are still facing unprecedented challenges in our healthcare systems,” said Dr Mohammed Abdulaziz, head of the Disease Control Division at CDC Africa.
“The need for community health workers integration into the broader health system in Member States has never been more urgent than this time when a lot more of our professional health workforce are migrating to the developed countries for greener pastures,” he added.
There is a need to share best practices, pool resources, and coordinate activities at Member States and continental levels, to maximize the impact and achieve greater efficiency in improving healthcare services across the continent through the operationalization of the continental coordination mechanism (CCM) for community health, Dr Abdulaziz said.
“To effect change, we must prioritize investment in community health workers, ensuring they are adequately compensated, skilled, and supported, with special attention to women health workers at the frontline of the response for children and their families,” said Dr Laila Gad, UNICEF representative to the AU and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
Dr Gad said this investment will not only accelerate health targets for all African children but also better prepare health systems for future pandemics and public health emergencies, she added noting, partnership is paramount in this endeavour.
In February this year, Africa CDC and UNICEF announced an extended partnership framework aimed at bolstering primary healthcare, supply chain management, pooled procurement, local manufacturing, and public health emergency responses.
Dr Abdulaziz said this collaboration builds on the existing 2022-2024 Partnership Framework Agreement between Africa CDC and UNICEF, aligned with the goals of the African Union Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.
At the core of this initiative is high-level advocacy for political prioritization and integration of Community Health Workers (CHWs) into human resource for health with the plan to deploy 50,000 CHWs over the next two years, progressing towards 500,000 by 2027. This in line with the African Union Heads of State initiative to deploy 2 million CHWs in Africa.

To achieve this, the partnership builds on the 2017 African Union Decision on CHWs and the Monrovia Call to Action by reinforcing commitments to invest in, scale, and strengthen community health workers programs.


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

About UNICEF: UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. Learn more at www.unicef.org

Media inquiries:
Margaret Edwin, Director of Communication & Public Information Division: Africa CDC | Tel: +251 986 632 878 | Email: EdwinM@africacdc.org
Ricardo Pires| UNICEF New York | Tel: +1 917 631 1226 | Email: rpires@unicef.org

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Head of Division, One Health (AfCDC) https://africacdc.org/career/head-of-division-one-health-afcdc/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=head-of-division-one-health-afcdc Tue, 07 May 2024 12:37:00 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=career&p=17455 Date: May 7, 2024 Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 9000043 Organization: African Union AU Values               • Respect for Diversity and Team Work             • Think Africa Above all                                  • Transparency and Accountability    […]

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Date: May 7, 2024

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 9000043

Organization: African Union

AU Values  

            • Respect for Diversity and Team Work             • Think Africa Above all                     

            • Transparency and Accountability                    • Integrity and Impartiality                       

            • Efficiency and Professionalism                       • Information and Knowledge Sharing

Organization Information

Reports to: Deputy Director General
Directorate/Department/Organ: Africa CDC
Division: One Health Division  
Number of Direct Reports: 
Number of Indirect Reports:
Job Grade: P5
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Regular
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Purpose of Job

The head of One Health shall direct and manages the daily operations of the One Health  division of the Africa CDC to achieve the strategic objectives of the Division and the Africa CDC’s overall goals.

Main Functions

  • Supervises and manages the work of the Division to ensure their effectiveness.
  • Designs strategies and policies in order to address the pertinent issues in the relevant area.
  • Contributes to the development of the business continuity plan and ensures its implementation at division level.
  • Ensures risk management and mitigation.
  • Oversees the expansion and development of new and existing activities of the Division.
  • Addresses challenges relating to current practices in related field or relevant area.
  • Engages stakeholders within Members States and RECs in designing and implementing strategies.
  • Represents the organisation and explains its position at conferences. 
  • Mobilises funds from donors and allocates them towards the implementation of strategies and activities of the Division.
  • Prepares periodic financial and budget execution reports and monitors budget execution at division level.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic direction for the Antimicrobial Resistance Programme and coordinate OH activities on the continent.
  • Provide strategic leadership for the One Health programme in Africa CDC, and One Health activities in the African Union and Member States.
  • Coordinate with other AU agencies on development and implementation of African Union wide AMR control efforts and One Health programs.
  • Collaborate with international organizations, such as WHO, FAO, and OIE, to coordinate AMR control efforts in Africa.
  • Lead the implementation of African Union Framework for AMR Control and Africa CDC Framework for One Health Practice in NPHIs in Regional Economic Communities and Member States.
  • Provide leadership to the African Union Task Force on AMR and other regional/continental activities.
  • Coordinate technical assistance from partners on the development of policies, programs, and guidance to support AMR control in Africa.
  • Provides technical guidance and works closely with counterparts in technical departments across the organization and liaises with counterparts in partner AU Agencies, donors and other stakeholders to harmonize recommendations on policies and strategies related to public health and the facilitation of successful implementation of national and/or continental health programmes.
  • Ensure a working environment that promotes staff development and professional progression.
  • Identify potential funding partners and developing funding proposals for Africa CDC, Member States, and partner as needed.
  • Represent the programme and share its vision and position at continental and global meetings and conferences.
  • Perform other related duties, as assigned by the supervisor. 

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

  • Master’s degree in Epidemiology, Public Health, Humanitarian studies or relevant disciplines with twelve (12) years of work experience of which a minimum of five (5) years must have been served at a managerial level.
  • Experience working in a national or international institution is required.
  • Experience in developing and implementing capacity building programs is required

Required Skills

  • Managerial skills, political tactfulness and supervisory skills to achieve documented objectives.
  • Ability to initiate and promote collaborative approaches between geographically and culturally disparate partners.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and working relations both internally and externally.
  • Ability to identify key strategic opportunities and risks.
  • Ability to effectively lead, supervise, mentor, develop and evaluate staff.
  • Proficiency in one of the AU working languages (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese and Spanish); fluency in another AU language is an added advantage.

Leadership Competencies

Strategic Risk Management

.Developing Organizational Capability

Change Management….

Core Competencies

Foster Accountability Culture

Learning Orientation

Building Relationship

Effective Communication

Functional Competencies

.Conceptual Thinking

Drive for Results

Fosters Innovation

TENURE OF APPOINTMENT:

The appointment will be made on a regular term contract for a period of three (3) years, of which the first twelve months shall be considered as a probationary period. Thereafter, the contract will be for a period of two years renewable, subject to satisfactory performance and deliverables.

GENDER MAINSTREAMING:

The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

LANGUAGES:

Proficiency in one of the AU working languages (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, and Spanish) is mandatory and fluency in another AU language is an added advantage

REMUNERATION:

Indicative basic salary of US$  50,746.00 (P5 Step1) per annum plus other related entitlements e.g. Post adjustment (46% of basic salary), Housing allowance US$  26,208.00   (per annum), and education allowance (100% of tuition and other education-related expenses for every eligible dependent up to a maximum of US$ 10,000.00 per child per annum), for internationally recruited staff and a maximum of $3,300 per child per annum for locally recruited staff.

Applications must be submitted no later than  June 7, 2024 11h59 p.m. EAT.
-Only candidates who meet all job requirements and are selected for interviews will be contacted.
-Consideration will be given only to those candidates who have submitted a fully completed online application with a curriculum vitae (CV), an African passport, and the required academic qualifications, such as Diplomas, Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees and any relevant certificate in line with the area of expertise. -The African Union is an equal opportunity employer, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
-Candidates from less represented countries within the African Union are strongly encouraged to apply for positions that fit their profiles. These countries include Algeria, Angola, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Comoros, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Namibia, Niger, Sahrawi D.R., Sao Tome and Principe., Seychelles, Somalia and Tunisia.

Requisition ID: [[2229]]

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Africa CDC Weekly Event Based Surveillance Report, May 2024 https://africacdc.org/download/africa-cdc-weekly-event-based-surveillance-report-may-2024/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=africa-cdc-weekly-event-based-surveillance-report-may-2024 Mon, 06 May 2024 18:04:54 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=wpdmpro&p=17077 Update to event: As of 6 p.m. East African Time (EAT) 5 April 2023, a total of 12,289,728 COVID-19 cases and 256,985 deaths (case fatality ratio[CFR]: 2.1%) were reported by the 55 African Union (AU) Member States (MS). This represents 2% of all cases and 4% of all deaths reported globally. Forty-two (76%) AU MS […]

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Update to event:
As of 6 p.m. East African Time (EAT) 5 April 2023, a total of 12,289,728 COVID-19 cases and 256,985 deaths (case fatality ratio[CFR]: 2.1%) were reported by the 55 African Union (AU) Member States (MS). This represents 2% of all cases and 4% of all deaths reported globally. Forty-two (76%) AU MS are reporting CFR higher than the global CFR (1%). Fifty-three MS have reported COVID-19 cases infected with the Alpha (50 MS), Beta (45), Delta (52), Gamma (3) and Omicron (51) variants of concern (VOC). Additionally, 32 MS have reported the presence of the Omicron BA.2 sub-variant, two MS reported the Omicronsublineage (XBB.1.5) and 11 Member States have reported the Omicron sublineage (BF.7 or BA.5.2.1.7).
Fifty-four (98%) MS are currently providing COVID-19 vaccination to the general population. Cumulatively, 1.1 billion doses have been administered on the continent. Of these doses administered, 542.4 million people have been partially vaccinated, and 422.7 million have been fully vaccinated. Eritrea is the only AU MS yet to start the COVID-19 vaccination rollout.
For Epi week 13 (27 March – 2 April 2023), 2,466 new COVID-19 cases were reported, which is a 43% decrease in the number of new cases reported compared to the previous week (12). The Southern region accounted for 63% of the new COVID-19 cases reported this week, followed by the Eastern (13%), Northern (13%), Western (6%) and Central (5%) regions.
Last week, 13 new COVID-19 deaths were reported in Africa, which is a 38% decrease in new deaths reported compared to the previous week (21 deaths). The Southern accounted for 77% of the new COVID-19 deaths reported this week, followed by Northern (23%). This week, no deaths were reported in the Central, Eastern and Western regions.
More than 73 thousand tests were conducted during the past week, reflecting a 111% increase in the number of tests compared to the previous week. The weekly % test positivity decreased by 3% compared with the previous week (12%). Since February 2020, over 126.1 million COVID-19 tests have been conducted in Africa.

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Africa speaks with one voice on the Pandemic Agreement https://africacdc.org/news-item/africa-speaks-with-one-voice-on-the-pandemic-agreement/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=africa-speaks-with-one-voice-on-the-pandemic-agreement Thu, 02 May 2024 12:57:28 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=news-item&p=17283 African leaders are looking forward to a just and fair pandemic agreement and a high-level ministerial consultation for the intergovernmental negotiating body on the draft of the Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Agreement. The Ministers of Health of African Union Member States met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 27 April, under the facilitation of the […]

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African leaders are looking forward to a just and fair pandemic agreement and a high-level ministerial consultation for the intergovernmental negotiating body on the draft of the Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Agreement.

The Ministers of Health of African Union Member States met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 27 April, under the facilitation of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to drive this message home. 

“We need African opinion and voice to be heard because this is the only way for us to show that we are together,” said Dr Jean Kaseya, the Director General of Africa CDC, opening the meeting in Addis Ababa.

All AU members were represented at the meeting for the first time, and eight health ministers participated online.

“We decided to come and strengthen the voice for the continent and the world,” Dr Kaseya said.

The pandemic agreement is a potential international agreement currently being negotiated by the 194 member states of the WHO, including the US. It is intended to address some of the weaknesses in capacities and lack of international cooperation during the global response to COVID-19. 

Africa CDC is not a negotiator; it provides political, strategic, and technical support to negotiators.

Dr Mekdes Daba, Ethiopia’s new Minister of Health who took office in February 2024, said the ministers were meeting at a critical time in the global health governance where a pandemic had paused an administrative vacuum to our collective strengths, driving health experts to unforgivingly reflecting the world’s vulnerabilities.

“As we navigate these challenging times, we must learn from our past experiences and share the future of global health security,” Dr Daba said.

Slyvia Masebo, Zambia’s health minister, said the health of ‘our’ people in our respective countries is a core component of economic and social development, and our collective voices today should foster unity around this common purpose of achieving universal health coverage.

“Our voices today should lead to equitable access to pandemic-related health products, increased access to vaccines and diagnostics, ensuring that no one is left behind, tech transfer, local production capabilities, and strengthening of our health systems,” Masebo said.

Ministers of health eventually agreed that the current Pandemic Agreement should ensure equity.

In a 27 April communique, the ministers said multilateral pathogen access and benefit sharing system (PABS), which provides legal certainty for both users and providers and ensures improved access to pandemic-related health products, technologies with measures that establish regionally distributed production of pandemic-related health products, and measures that establish regionally distributed production of pandemic-related health products were required.

The ministers also called for the formulation of coherent national and regional strategies for emergency preparedness, response, and health workforce development, including community health workforce.  “Let us stand united in our commitment and ensure a fair and comprehensive pandemic agreement for the benefit of all our people and a healthier Africa,” said Masebo.

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Sero-epidemiological assessment of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine responsiveness and associated factors in the vaccinated community of the Casablanca-Settat Region, Morocco https://africacdc.org/download/sero-epidemiological-assessment-of-sars-cov-2-vaccine-responsiveness-and-associated-factors-in-the-vaccinated-community-of-the-casablanca-settat-region-morocco/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sero-epidemiological-assessment-of-sars-cov-2-vaccine-responsiveness-and-associated-factors-in-the-vaccinated-community-of-the-casablanca-settat-region-morocco Thu, 02 May 2024 12:42:51 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=wpdmpro&p=17276 Sayeh Ezzikouri, Raji Tajudeen, Hind Majidi, Soad Redwane, Safaa Aqillouch, Mohammed Abdulaziz, Merawi Aragaw, Mosoka Papa Fallah, Senga Sembuche, Serge Batcho, Patrick Kabwe, Elizabeth Gonese, Oumaima Laazaazia, Mohcine Elmessaoudi-Idrissi, Nadia Meziane, Abdelhakim Ainahi, M’hammed Sarih, Ahmed E. Ogwell Ouma & Abderrahmane Maaroufi Abstract Assessing the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG positivity through population-based serological surveys is […]

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Sayeh Ezzikouri, Raji Tajudeen, Hind Majidi, Soad Redwane, Safaa Aqillouch, Mohammed Abdulaziz, Merawi Aragaw, Mosoka Papa Fallah, Senga Sembuche, Serge Batcho, Patrick Kabwe, Elizabeth Gonese, Oumaima Laazaazia, Mohcine Elmessaoudi-Idrissi, Nadia Meziane, Abdelhakim Ainahi, M’hammed Sarih, Ahmed E. Ogwell Ouma & Abderrahmane Maaroufi

Abstract

Assessing the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG positivity through population-based serological surveys is crucial for monitoring COVID-19 vaccination efforts. In this study, we evaluated SARS-CoV-2 IgG positivity within a provincial cohort to understand the magnitude of the humoral response against the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and to inform evidence-based public health decisions. A community-based cross-sectional seroprevalence study was conducted, involving 10,669 participants who received various vaccines (two doses for BBIBP-CorV/Sinopharm, Covishield vaccine, and Pfizer/BioNTech, and one dose for Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine). The study spanned 16 provinces in the Casablanca-Settat region from February to June 2022, during which comprehensive demographic and comorbidity data were collected. We screened samples for the presence of IgG antibodies using the SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant assay, which quantifies antibodies against the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike (S) protein, measured on the Abbott Architect i2000SR. The overall crude seroprevalence was 96% (95% CI: 95.6–96.3%), and after adjustment for assay performance, it was estimated as 96.2% (95% CI: 95.7–96.6). The adjusted overall seroprevalences according to vaccine brands showed no significant difference (96% for BBIBP-CorV/Sinopharm, 97% for ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/Oxford/AstraZeneca, 98.5% for BNT162b2/Pfizer-BioNTech, and 98% for Janssen) (p = 0.099). Participants of older age, female sex, those with a history of previous COVID-19 infection, and those with certain chronic diseases were more likely to be seropositive among ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/Oxford/AstraZeneca and BBIBP-CorV/Sinopharm vaccinee groups. Median RBD antibody concentrations were 2355 AU/mL, 3714 AU/mL, 5838 AU/mL, and 2495 AU/mL, respectively, after two doses of BBIBP-CorV/Sinopharm, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/Oxford/AstraZeneca, BNT162b2/Pfizer-BioNTech, and after one dose of Janssen (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, we observed that participants vaccinated with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/Oxford/AstraZeneca and BBIBP-CorV/Sinopharm with comorbid chronic diseases exhibited a more pronounced response to vaccination compared to those without comorbidities. In contrast, no significant differences were observed among Pfizer-vaccinated participants (p > 0.05). In conclusion, our serosurvey findings indicate that all four investigated vaccines provide a robust humoral immune response in the majority of participants (more than 96% of participants had antibodies against SARS-CoV-2). The BNT162b2 vaccine was found to be effective in eliciting a strong humoral response compared to the other three vaccines. However, challenges still remain in examining the dynamics and durability of immunoprotection in the Moroccan context.

More at https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-58498-6

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Establishing Regional Centers of Excellence: Capacity Assessment of Fully-Established National Public Health Institutes in Africa https://africacdc.org/download/establishing-regional-centers-of-excellence-capacity-assessment-of-fully-established-national-public-health-institutes-in-africa/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=establishing-regional-centers-of-excellence-capacity-assessment-of-fully-established-national-public-health-institutes-in-africa Thu, 02 May 2024 12:38:58 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=wpdmpro&p=17273 Haftom Taame Desta*, Nicaise Ndembi, Fai Karl, Howard Nyika, Grace Merekaje, Emmanuel Idigbe, Killian Songwe, Joshua Obasanya, Placido Cardoso, Ngashi Ngongo, Raji Tajudeen, Jean Kaseya Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), African Union Abstract Introduction: By linking key components of public health functions such as surveillance, laboratory capacity, emergency response, communications, and […]

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Haftom Taame Desta*, Nicaise Ndembi, Fai Karl, Howard Nyika, Grace Merekaje, Emmanuel Idigbe, Killian Songwe, Joshua Obasanya, Placido Cardoso, Ngashi Ngongo, Raji Tajudeen, Jean Kaseya

Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), African Union

Abstract

Introduction: By linking key components of public health functions such as surveillance, laboratory capacity, emergency response, communications, and public health research, NPHIs shorten the response time to public health emergency response and provides focused and centralized leadership and coordination mechanism for public health.

Objective: The main objective of the assessment was to describe the capacities of fully established NPHIs and identify potential Centres of Excellence for Health Information System, Emergency Response Coordination, Workforce Development and Public Health Research in each geographic regions of Africa.

Method: We assessed capacity of 12 fully established NPHIs in Africa from May to August 2023 using a tool focused on Corporate Governance, Health Information Management System, Public Health Workforce Development, Public Health Emergency Response Coordination and Public Health Research.

Result: The assessment findings showed that NPHIs of DRC, Ethiopia, Liberia, Burkina Faso, South Africa, and Mozambique scored 71%, 93%, 91%, 90%, 91.3%, 88.4% for Health Information Management System; Burundi, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Mozambique, and South Africa scored 71%, 90%, 86%, 81%, 90.5%, and 85.7% for Work Force Development; Burundi, Ethiopia, Liberia, Burkina Faso, South Africa and Mozambique scored 67%, 94%, 98%, 92%, 78.4%, and 70.6% for Emergency Response coordination; and Burundi, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Liberia, Morocco, South Africa, and Mozambique scored 92%, 92%, 92%100%,100%, 91.7%, and 91.7% for Public Health Research respectively. The mean score of the potential regional centers of excellence at 95% CI is 87% [72-102], 84.5% [67,101], 70.6% [27,140] and 91.7% [89,99] for Health Information Management System, Workforce Development, Emergency Response Coordination, and Public Health Research respectively.

Conclusion: The most common challenges all NPHIs faced include inadequate infrastructure and resources to carry out their mandates, fragmented health information systems, dependence on external funding for programmes, high staff turnover, and lack of career development plans. Addressing these challenges require sustained political commitment, increased funding for public health, improved infrastructure, and resources, strengthened partnerships and collaborations, and the development of effective policies and strategies to support the functions of NPHIs.

More at https://www.fortunejournals.com/articles/establishing-regional-centers-of-excellence-capacity-assessment-of-fullyestablished-national-public-health-institutes-in-africa.html

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Lusaka Call-to-Action 2022: A Call to Strengthen Public Health Emergency Operation Centers in Africa https://africacdc.org/download/lusaka-call-to-action-2022-a-call-to-strengthen-public-health-emergency-operation-centers-in-africa/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lusaka-call-to-action-2022-a-call-to-strengthen-public-health-emergency-operation-centers-in-africa Thu, 02 May 2024 12:32:56 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=wpdmpro&p=17271 Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 April 2024 Womi-Eteng Oboma Eteng, Wessam Mankoula, Merawi Aragaw, Ibrahima Sonko, Mathew Tut, Dennis Kibiye, Lul Riek and Ahmed Ogwell Ouma Abstract In July 2022, on the sidelines of the 41st Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union and the 4th Mid-Year Coordination Summit in Lusaka, […]

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16 April 2024 Womi-Eteng Oboma Eteng, Wessam Mankoula, Merawi Aragaw, Ibrahima Sonko, Mathew Tut, Dennis Kibiye, Lul Riek and Ahmed Ogwell Ouma

Abstract

In July 2022, on the sidelines of the 41st Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union and the 4th Mid-Year Coordination Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, Heads of state and government, and leaders of delegations of African Union Member States called on member states, African Union through Africa CDC, and partners to recognize, prioritize, and accelerate the establishment and strengthening of public health emergency operation centers (PHEOCs) in the context of health security and in line with Africa’s new public health order. Implementing the declaration requires a multi-dimensional approach that spans across governance, operational capabilities, partnerships, workforce development, and sustainable financing. African countries are increasingly plagued by public health emergencies, acutely characterized by high morbidity and mortality outcomes. Effective coordination and improved management of the situation requires the implementation of public health emergency operation centers (PHEOCs) running according to minimum common standards. 1 The PHEOC concept represents a nascent best practice in the spectrum of actions required to establish a comprehensive emergency management program and is critical to the fulfillment of the International Health Regulations 2 (2005) obligations by member states. Its implementation integrates traditional public health services into an emergency management model. Functional PHEOCs are typically well-equipped, physical (and more recently, virtual), tech-savvy hubs within which emergency management resources are co-located and directed. These hubs provide a platform for joint risk assessment, planning, coordination, and the dissemination of crucial information and resources essential for effective emergency management. Where fully implemented, PHEOCs mitigate common setbacks in emergency situations such as lack of clear leadership, delayed decision making, mismanagement of response resources, poor communication, ineffective coordination, and duplication of efforts by the various responding jurisdictions. Coordination of public health response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic was widely reported as suboptimal, Reference Lanyero, Edea and Musa3,Reference Kapucu and Hu4 a situation that robust, interlinked, and pretested PHEOCs systems could avert by ensuring better coordination of information and resources across sectors and the communities being served. The veritable use of PHEOCs in coordinating preparedness and response efforts remains illusional without political commitment. Commendably, Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) have consistently demonstrated strong public health leadership by championing various initiatives and embracing public health instruments to tackle health threats on the continent. In recent past, AU Heads of State and Government have championed the establishment of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), one fast-tracked by the 2014–2016 Ebola crisis in West Africa. The Africa CDC as a continental public health institution was instrumental in mounting a coordinated continental response for the COVID-19 pandemic. AU Heads of State and Government also ensured the continuous improvement of preparedness and response to infectious disease threats and other emergencies on the continent as evidenced by their championing of multiple public health initiatives, including domestic financing, nutrition, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and climate change. The African Health Strategy 2030, which provides direction on improving health on the continent, 5 and the Agenda 2063, 6 a continental framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development over a 50-year period, collectively define public health as a critical pillar of the continent’s development agenda. More at https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/disaster-medicine-and-public-health-preparedness/article/lusaka-calltoaction-2022-a-call-to-strengthen-public-health-emergency-operation-centers-in-africa/09EBC27FEF1EC10E98272FD20E3C7705

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Regional Director – Regional Coordinating Center West (AfCDC) https://africacdc.org/career/regional-director-regional-coordinating-center-west-afcdc-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=regional-director-regional-coordinating-center-west-afcdc-2 Wed, 01 May 2024 07:24:00 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=career&p=17256 Date: May 1, 2024 Location: Abuja, Nigeria Organization: African Union AU Values               • Respect for Diversity and Team Work             • Think Africa Above all                                  • Transparency and Accountability        […]

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Date: May 1, 2024

Location: Abuja, Nigeria

Organization: African Union

AU Values  

            • Respect for Diversity and Team Work             • Think Africa Above all                     

            • Transparency and Accountability                    • Integrity and Impartiality                       

            • Efficiency and Professionalism                       • Information and Knowledge Sharing

Organization Information

Reports to: Director General
Directorate/Department/Organ: Africa CDC
Division: Regional Collaborating Center (Abuja)
Number of Direct Reports: –
Number of Indirect Reports: –
Job Grade: P5
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Regular
Location: Abuja, Nigeria

Purpose of Job

The Regional Director for Regional Collaborating Centre is responsible for leading and managing the strategic and operational activities of the centre, which aims to foster collaboration and coordination among regional stakeholders in the field of health and social care. The Regional Director oversees the development and implementation of the centre’s work plan, budget, and performance indicators, as well as the recruitment and supervision of staff. The Regional Director also represents the centre in external meetings and events, and builds and maintains effective partnerships with Member states and relevant regional and national authorities, organizations, and networks.

Main Functions

The Regional Director for the Regional Collaborating Centre (RCC) is responsible for:

  • Overseeing the implementation of the RCC’s strategic plan
  • Managing the RCC’s staff and budget and fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders.
  • Representing the RCC in regional and global forums, and
  • Ensure alignment with the RCC’s vision and mission. 

The Regional Director reports to the Director General and works closely with the RCC’s Technical Advisory Committee.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Coordinate and facilitate the development of RCCs work plans for regional epidemiology and laboratory surveillance capacity strengthening.
  • Fosters an enabling environment for research collaborations and information sharing among RCCs.
  • Facilitate RCCs linkages to the Africa CDC Emergency Operations Centre activities to ensure appropriate and rapid deployment of staff.
  • Facilitate and coordinate development of RCCs preparedness and response plans and assessment activities.
  • Facilitate strengthening of RCC disease surveillance monitoring and reporting by facilitating adaptation of Africa CDC surveillance policies.
  • Facilitate the execution of Africa CDC technical reference policy, guidance, plans and tools into RCC contexts to ensure consistent implementation of public health activities.
  • Oversee, mentor and guide development of peer review research publications in epidemiology, surveillance or related health science.
  • Represent the agency on behalf of the Director in technical meetings, conferences or similar venues where the agency seeks to be recognized.
  • Represents the agencies scientific interests as a member of a scientific review committee for reviewing and developing public health scientific policies, procedures and guidelines.
  • Coordinates the delivery of technical services in support of Africa CDC Emergency Response activities as appropriate and assigned.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

  • Masters Degree in a relevant discipline such as, but not limited to, Public Health, basic Health Science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry), and Epidemiology and Health-Services Research. 
  • Clinical degree (e.g., M.D, MPhil, in Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing) AND a Master’s Degree in Public Health or a related discipline.
  • Twelve (12) years of relevant experience in public health practice, with emphasis on infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring and surveillance, and operational research, with at least seven (7) years at managerial level with wide powers to lead and manage national, regional or global public health programmes and five (5) years of supervisory level.
  • Extensive experience in leading and managing complex projects across multiple countries and sectors. 
  • Have successfully coordinated the delivery of high-quality technical assistance, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development 
  • Should have also fostered strong partnerships and collaboration with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, private sector, and development partners. 
  • Should have demonstrated strategic vision, leadership skills, and a commitment to excellence and innovation in my previous roles.
  • Considering the operating environment and composition of Member States within the Regional Coordinating Center – RCC West, proficiency of English and French as African Union Official Working Languages is required.

Required Skills

The following are the required skills for a Regional Director of Regional Collaborating Centres in the Africa CDC:

  • Strong leadership and management skills: The Regional Director must be able to provide strong leadership and management to the RCDCs. This includes setting clear goals and objectives, developing and implementing strategies, and managing staff and resources effectively.
  • Excellent communication skills: The Regional Director must be able to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including AU officials, government officials, partners, and the public. This includes being able to clearly articulate the RCDC’s goals and objectives, as well as the RCDC’s work and achievements.
  • Technical expertise: The Regional Director must have technical expertise in the areas of the RCDC’s work. This may include areas such as health, education, agriculture, or the environment.
  • Political savvy: The Regional Director must be able to navigate the political landscape of the AU and its member states. This includes being able to build relationships with key stakeholders and to advocate for the RCC’s work.
  • International experience: The Regional Director must have international experience. This includes experience working in a cross-cultural environment and experience working with international partners.

In addition to the above skills, the Regional Director must also be a strategic thinker, a problem solver, and a team player. The Regional Director must be able to work independently and as part of a team to achieve the RCC’s goals and objectives.
The Regional Director of Regional Collaborating Centres in Africa CDC is a critical position that requires a wide range of skills and experience and must be able to provide strong leadership and management, excellent communication skills, technical expertise, political savvy, and international experience.
 

Leadership Competencies

Strategic Perspective

Developing Others

Change Management

Managing Risk

Core Competencies

Building Relationship

Foster Accountability Culture

Learning Orientation

Communicating with impact

Functional Competencies

Conceptual Thinking

Job Knowledge and information sharing

Drive for Results

Fosters Innovation

Notes

The requirements and responsibilities contained in this job description do not create a contract of employment and are not meant to be all-inclusive. It may be changed by the role manager during employment on an as-needed basis. 

Only candidates who have met all the requirements of the post and have been selected for interview will be contacted.

Only applications registered online with a complete curriculum vitae (CV) attached will be considered. 

The Africa union is an equal opportunity employer and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
 

 TENURE OF APPOINTMENT:

The appointment will be made on a regular term contract for a period of three (3) years, of which the first twelve months shall be considered as a probationary period. Thereafter, the contract will be for a period of two years renewable, subject to satisfactory performance and deliverables.

GENDER MAINSTREAMING:

The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

REMUNERATION:

Indicative basic salary of US$  50,746.00 (P5 Step1) per annum plus other related entitlements e.g. Post adjustment (57% of basic salary), Housing allowance US$ 27,290.88 (per annum), and education allowance (100% of tuition and other education-related expenses for every eligible dependent up to a maximum of US$ 10,000.00 per child per annum), for internationally recruited staff and a maximum of $3,300 per child per annum for locally recruited staff.

Applications must be submitted no later than June 3, 2024 11h59 p.m. EAT.
-Only candidates who meet all job requirements and are selected for interviews will be contacted.
-Consideration will be given only to those candidates who have submitted a fully completed online application with a curriculum vitae (CV), an African passport, and the required academic qualifications, such as diplomas, Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees and any relevant certificate in line with the area of expertise.
-The African Union is an equal opportunity employer, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
-Candidates from less represented countries within the African Union are strongly encouraged to apply for positions that fit their profiles. These countries include Algeria, Angola, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Comoros, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Namibia, Niger, Sahrawi D.R., Sao Tome and Principe., Seychelles, Somalia and Tunisia.

Requisition ID: [[2261]]

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Principal Officer, Fellowship and Leaders Programme (AfCDC) https://africacdc.org/career/principal-officer-fellowship-leaders-programme-afcdc/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=principal-officer-fellowship-leaders-programme-afcdc Wed, 01 May 2024 07:18:00 +0000 https://africacdc.org/?post_type=career&p=17250 Date: May 1, 2024 Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Organization: African Union AU Values               • Respect for Diversity and Team work             • Think Africa Above all                                  • Transparency and Accountability      […]

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Date: May 1, 2024

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Organization: African Union

AU Values  

            • Respect for Diversity and Team work             • Think Africa Above all                     

            • Transparency and Accountability                    • Integrity and Impartiality                       

            • Efficiency and Professionalism                       • Information and Knowledge Sharing

Organization Information

Reports to: Head of Division Health Workforce Development 
Directorate/Department/Organ: Africa CDC
Division:Health Workforce Development 
Number of Direct Reports: 
Number of Indirect Reports:
Job Grade: P4
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Purpose of Job

The Principal Officer – Fellowship & Leadership Programmes is responsible for the overall management and coordination of the Africa CDC’s fellowship and leadership programmes. This includes developing and implementing new programmes, managing the day-to-day operations of existing programmes, and evaluating the impact of the programmes. The Principal Officer will also work to build partnerships with the AUC and other organizations to support the development of fellowship and leadership programmes.

Main Functions

  • Take technical and intellectual lead in the management of various elements related to the area of expertise.
  • Identify best practices and monitor effectiveness of the Office’s support to Africa CDC.
  • Provide support in the development of the strategies and business continuity plan and participate in/ensure their implementation.
  • Foster and ensure implementation of initiatives related to area of specialization.
  • Provide support in the organization of thematic networks, consultations and meetings on development cooperation and international relations.
  • Provide technical guidance on matters relating to system review and implementation project in area of specialization, as required

Specific Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement new fellowship and leadership programmes and initiatives in line with the Africa CDC’s strategic plan.
  • Manage the day-to-day operations of existing fellowship and leadership programmes.
  • Build partnerships with other like-minded organizations to support the development of fellowship and leadership programmes for Africa CDC.
  • Publish articles and reports on the fellowship and leadership programmes.
  • Represent the Africa CDC at regional and international meetings and events related to fellowship and leadership programmes.
  • Develop materials and provide necessary training and support to fellows as required.
  • Evaluate the impact of the fellowship and leadership programmes.
  • Perform other related duties, as may be assigned. 

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

  • Master’s degree or equivalent in public health, health policy, or related fields or a related discipline and ten (10) years of relevant and progressively responsible work experience with a focus on fellowship and leadership development out of which six (6) of which should at expert and (3) years of experience at supervisory role.

           OR

  • Bachelor’s degree in public health, health policy, or related fields or a related discipline and twelve (12) years of relevant and progressively responsible work experience with a focus on fellowship and leadership development out of which six (6) years should be at expert level, and 3 (three) years at supervisory role.
  • PhD in public health or a related field is a plus.
  • At least 10 years of experience in the field of public health, with a focus on fellowship and leadership development.
     

Required Skills

  • Proven ability to manage and coordinate complex projects.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as official working languages.

Leadership Competencies

Change Management

Managing Risk:

Strategic Insight

Core Competencies

Accountable and Complies with Rules

Learning Orientation

Building Relationship

Communicating with Influence

Functional Competencies

Conceptual Thinking

Drive for Results

Job Knowledge and information sharing

Continuous Improvement Orientation ….

TENURE OF APPOINTMENT:

The Appointment will be made on a fixed term contract for a period of one (1) year, of which the first three (3) months will be considered as a probationary period. Thereafter, the contract may be renewed for a similar period subject to funding availability, satisfactory performance and agreed deliverables. 

GENDER MAINSTREAMING:

The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

LANGUAGES:

Proficiency in one of the AU working languages (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, and Spanish) and fluency in another AU language is an added advantage.

REMUNERATION:

The salary attached to the position is an annual lump-sum of US$ 110,951.49  (P4 Step 5) inclusive of all allowances for internationally recruited staff, and US$  92,867.97 inclusive of all allowances for locally recruited staff of the African Union Commission.

Applications must be submitted no later than  Jun 3, 2024 11h59 p.m. EAT.
-Only candidates who meet all job requirements and are selected for interviews will be contacted. -Consideration will be given only to those candidates who have submitted a fully completed online application with a curriculum vitae (CV), an African passport, and the required academic qualifications, such as Diplomas, Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees and any relevant certificate in line with the area of expertise.
-The African Union is an equal opportunity employer, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. -Candidates from less represented countries within the African Union are strongly encouraged to apply for positions that fit their profiles. These countries include Algeria, Angola, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Comoros, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Namibia, Niger, Sahrawi D.R., Sao Tome and Principe., Seychelles, Somalia and Tunisia.

Requisition ID: [[2249]]

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