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Writes Baboloki Semele in Lusaka, Zambia
The curtains closed on the Third (3rd) International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2023) in Lusaka, Zambia, leaving a trail of ambitious resolutions. Distinguished attendees, including African Heads of State, health ministers, leading scientists, innovators, and researchers, participated in the theme “Breaking Barriers: Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Architecture.”
Over four days, the conference showcased cutting-edge research, innovations, and African-led solutions to prevailing public health challenges.
Despite notable strides in public health, supported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Africa grapples with enduring issues. Infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS persist, noncommunicable diseases are on the rise, and maternal mortality remains alarmingly high. The imperative to fortify health systems for comprehensive care and response to emerging threats echoes louder than ever.
Dr Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, emphasized, “Through our collective resilience and ingenuity, we are breaking down these barriers and creating a New Public Health Order for the continent. CPHIA 2023 will advance conversations shaping the future of health in Africa, spotlighting African-led research, health products, and best practices.”
CPHIA 2023, hosted by the African Union and Africa CDC in collaboration with the Zambia Ministry of Health and the Zambia National Public Health Institute, spanned from 27th to 30th November 2023. The event featured 9 plenary sessions, 18 parallel sessions, high-level special sessions, abstract-driven sessions, and over 100 side events. Following three days of virtual programming, including abstract sessions and side events, this marked the third edition of the conference.
Prof. Senait Fisseha, CPHIA 2023 Co-Chair and Vice President of Global Programs, Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, stated, “CPHIA 2023 will build on these foundations, elevating African voices and solutions to create strong, responsive, and resilient health systems in Africa.”
Discussions in Lusaka delved into resilient financing mechanisms for pandemic preparedness, progress in local vaccine production, access to healthcare for women and girls, and multi-sectoral responses to enhance health security. Prof. Margaret Gyapong, CPHIA 2023 Co-Chair and Director of the Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Applied Sciences, highlighted the conference’s focus on African researchers and health leaders leveraging scientific research and innovations to address longstanding challenges.
Notable figures delivering remarks included His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, President of Zambia; Honourable Sylvia Masebo, Minister of Health of Zambia; Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization; CPHIA 2023 Co-Chairs Prof. Margaret Gyapong and Prof. Senait Fisseha; His Excellency Moussa Faki, Chairperson of the African Union Commission; Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, Regional Director for Africa at the World Health Organization; and H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya.
Minister Sylvia Masebo expressed pride in hosting the largest gathering of health experts, leaders, and researchers in Africa, stating, “Together we will break barriers and lay the foundation for a healthier, more prosperous Africa.”