The African Union at Expo 2020 Dubai wrapped up the Spotlight on Africa series by celebrating Africa CDC’s 5^th year of establishment alongside with the 20^th anniversary of the African Union at its event titled: “Evaluating and building resilient health in Africa with the Africa CDC”

A collaborative event between the African Union, Africa CDC, and the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences gathered leading minds within the public health space to take stock of the continent’s successes and challenges in building resilient health systems.

In his welcome remarks, the Director for Africa CDC Dr. John Nkengasong, reflected on Africa CDC’s short but impactful journey. He said quote, “Great innovation is coming out of Africa… It is all about partnership. For example, five years ago, Africa CDC was a laptop & 5 people. But our partners saw an opportunity.” Dr. Nkengasong went to leave an impassioned plea for those in attendance and those joining the gathering viurtually, rallying them to be part of the ongoing works that build to protect the continent against future pandemics and outbreaks.

In attendance were ministers, leaders, innovators, advocates, and change-makers from across the world, honoured by African Union Commission Deputy Chairperson H.E. Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa. H.E. Dr. Nsanzabaganwa congratulated Africa CDC on their fifth anniversary. Noting, “anniversaries are opportunities to recall our journey, evaluate lessons learnt and cherish our achievements.” Dr. Nsanzabaganwa emphasized that building strong and resilient health systems, and healthy populations, are critical to achieving the AU Agenda 2063 and transforming Africa into the global powerhouse of the future, as envisioned by our Heads of State and Government. She applauded Africa CDC for  becoming the principal public health agency to the fight against infectious diseases in Africa. In her conclusion, she called upon for all stakeholders for their support and partnership as Africa CDC continues delivering on its vision of improving health on the continent.

The day’s activities included five panel discussions, which explored thematic conversations with experts from government, academia, philanthropies and the private sector.  

The public, media and all other interested parties can keep up-to-date with the latest out of Dubai as well as get all the necessary information surrounding the AU activities or events by visiting the official AU at Expo 2020 website: https://africaexpo2020dubai.au.int/en

For further information please contact:

Mr. Lunga Kupiso, Public Relations & Media Officer - AU at Expo 2020 | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission
Tel: +251 115 517 700 | E-mail: auexpomedia@africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Ms. Faith Adhiambo, Media & Communications Coordinator - AU at Expo 2020 | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission
Tel: +251 115 517 700 | E-mail: ochiengj@african-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
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