African leaders are calling for a unified voice and commitment to equity in the ongoing negotiations for a global Pandemic Agreement. The African Union member states met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to advocate for a stronger response system to future pandemics.
Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), emphasized the importance of a unified African stance. “We need African opinion and voice to be heard because this is the only way to show that we are together,” he said.
This meeting marks the first time all AU member states were represented, demonstrating a united front. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, highlighted the urgency of these discussions. “We must learn from our past experiences and share the future of global health security,” she remarked.
The Pandemic Agreement aims to address shortcomings exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly regarding global cooperation and response capacity.
African leaders are prioritizing several key issues in the agreement. Zambia’s health minister, Slyvia Masebo, underscored the need for “equitable access to pandemic-related health products, increased access to vaccines and diagnostics.” This includes ensuring no country is left behind and fostering technology transfer for local production capabilities.
The ministers reached a consensus on the need for a Pandemic Agreement that guarantees equity. A joint communique emphasized the importance of a multilateral pathogen access and benefit sharing system. This system would provide a legal framework for access to pandemic-related products and technologies, while also establishing regional production hubs.
Furthermore, the ministers called for robust national and regional strategies for emergency preparedness, response, and healthcare workforce development, including a focus on community health workers.
“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,” concluded Ms. Masebo.
