Imagine a continent grappling with relentless health crises—from outbreaks that threaten millions to the urgent need for coordinated action—Africa is at the frontline of a global battle for better health security. But here's where it gets intriguing: How prepared are we really, and what bold steps can turn the tide? Join us as we dive into these pressing issues with Africa's top health experts. And this is the part most people miss—the behind-the-scenes collaborations that could reshape emergency responses across the globe. If you've ever wondered about the controversies surrounding international health aid, disparities in vaccine distribution, or debates on local versus global leadership in pandemics, this briefing might challenge your views. Stick around; it's time to unpack the facts and spark some meaningful conversations.
We're thrilled to invite media representatives to our Weekly Special Press Briefing on Health Emergencies in Africa, hosted by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This event promises to be a deep dive into the unfolding public health landscape on the continent, offering fresh insights that could inform global discussions.
What to Expect: On this Thursday, Africa CDC Director-General Dr. Jean Kaseya will take the spotlight to deliver comprehensive updates on the current public health scenarios sweeping across Africa. He'll spotlight the collaborative efforts underway at a regional level and delve into strategies for boosting preparedness and enhancing health security continent-wide. Think of it as a roadmap for fortifying defenses against diseases—illustrating how coordinated surveillance and rapid response can save lives, much like how early warnings during past outbreaks have helped contain epidemics in specific countries, such as the Ebola crisis in West Africa, which showcased both the challenges and triumphs of unified action.
When: Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 20, 2025. The briefing is scheduled to run for one hour, ensuring ample time for in-depth discussions.
Time: To accommodate our diverse audience across the continent, we've tailored the timings as follows:
- 16:00hrs to 17:00hrs in East Africa Time (GMT +3)
- 15:00hrs to 16:00hrs in Southern Africa Time (GMT +2)
- 14:00hrs to 15:00hrs in Central African Countries (GMT +1)
- 13:00hrs to 14:00hrs in West African Countries (GMT)
Where: This briefing will be held virtually, making it accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. Register and join via the Zoom link: https://africacdc-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xz8mTOxGSgKfu1QsJNLb6g. No need to travel—just tune in from the comfort of your desk or mobile device.
Speaker: Leading the discussion will be H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, the esteemed Director-General of Africa CDC, whose expertise in public health emergencies has been instrumental in guiding Africa's responses to various crises.
Moderator: The session will be expertly moderated by Margaret Muigai Edwin, Director of Communication & Public Information at Africa CDC, ensuring a smooth flow and facilitating audience engagement.
Languages: To reach a broader audience, the briefing will be conducted in English and French, with interpretation services available for both languages—breaking down language barriers and making complex topics more approachable for everyone.
Media Q&A: Journalists are encouraged to participate actively. You can submit questions in advance by sending your full name and the name of your media organization to our WhatsApp number: +251 945 502 310. For those who prefer real-time interaction, live questions can be posed directly through Zoom during the event. It's a great opportunity to get clarifications on intricate issues, such as how regional partnerships are evolving in the face of funding disparities or resource allocation debates.
Live Stream: For those unable to attend live, a livestream will be available soon, allowing you to follow along and catch up later. We'll update the link here as soon as it's ready.
Media Inquiries: Need more details or have follow-up questions? Reach out to Margaret Muigai Edwin, Director of the Communication & Public Information Directorate at Africa CDC. Contact her via phone at +255 742 635 592 or email at edwinm@africacdc.org. We're here to support your reporting.
About Africa CDC: The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) stands as a key autonomous public health agency under the African Union. Dedicated to empowering Member States, it plays a pivotal role in building robust health systems, enhancing disease surveillance, and improving emergency response, prevention, and control measures. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Africa CDC coordinated efforts that helped many countries distribute vaccines more equitably, demonstrating the power of localized expertise. To learn more about their mission and initiatives, visit https://africacdc.org/.
But let's stir the pot a bit: In a world where global health inequalities persist, some argue that Africa's self-led initiatives, like those championed by Africa CDC, are revolutionary—empowering the continent to dictate its own health narrative. Others contend that greater international involvement is essential to bridge gaps in funding and technology. What do you think? Is regional autonomy the key to true health security, or do we risk isolation without wider global ties? Share your thoughts in the comments below—do you agree with this approach, or see it as a potential pitfall? We'd love to hear your perspectives and continue the dialogue!
