Health ministers from across Africa gathered in Lusaka, Zambia, to start the 75th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa. The ministers from 47 countries will discuss ways to tackle health issues and agree on plans to improve health services for millions.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema opened the meeting by pointing to the lessons learned from COVID-19. He encouraged leaders to use health as a way to boost trade and industry in the region, and called for better cooperation on public health rules. He also stressed the need for decisions that put people’s wellbeing first.
Zambia’s Health Minister, Dr. Elijah Muchima, said no country can face health challenges alone. “We must work together, share what works, and use Africa’s knowledge to build strong health systems that can handle future threats,” he said.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the session timely as Africa faces money and security challenges. WHO is working with countries to build health systems that can stand on their own and serve everyone well. WHO’s Africa Regional Director, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, said health is key to economic growth, and policies should focus on people, especially the most vulnerable.
Over three days, ministers will discuss important topics such as improving dental care, fixing blood shortages that threaten mothers and children, and increasing access to rehabilitation services. They will also look at ways to reduce maternal deaths, fight malaria, close the gap in health workers, and strengthen early warning for health crises.
What happens in Lusaka this week will set the course for Africa’s health future, aiming to build stronger, healthier communities across the continent.
