Zambia Hosts Historic One Health Conference to Foster Regional Cooperation
In a significant move towards enhancing health systems across Eastern and Southern Africa, government ministers from Zambia and neighboring countries have launched the One Health Regional Call to Action. This initiative was unveiled during the inaugural Eastern and Southern Africa Regional One Health Conference held in Lusaka, highlighting a collaborative approach to health and environmental challenges.
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- Ministers from health, agriculture, and environment sectors come together to address interconnected health issues.
- The conference aims to promote integrated health systems across SADC Member States.
- Keynote speakers emphasize the necessity of a unified approach to health security.
Significance of the One Health Approach
The One Health concept is designed to unite efforts in managing health risks that affect humans, animals, and the environment. This holistic approach is crucial in today’s interconnected world, where individual health sectors often operate in silos.
- Enhanced health security requires a collaborative framework addressing overlaps between human, animal, and environmental health.
- Pledges made at the conference aim to maximize resource efficiency in health management.
- Addressing climate-induced health threats is a primary focus of the ongoing discussions.
A Diverse Agenda for Collaboration
The two-day conference features a rich agenda that includes thematic discussions on various health-related topics. It serves as a platform for experts, government officials, and community representatives to engage in meaningful dialogue.
- Key topics include economic resilience, workforce development, and integrated surveillance systems.
- Interactive sessions will present innovative solutions from researchers and entrepreneurs.
- Participants will focus on tackling antimicrobial resistance and foodborne illnesses.
Keynote Address by Minister Dr. Elijah J. Muchima
In his keynote address, the Honorable Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, Zambia’s Minister of Health, emphasized the need for a unified approach. He recognized that fragmented health strategies not only undermine health security but also waste valuable resources.
- “This conference is a vital step toward a smarter, more sustainable One Health approach,” Muchima stated.
- He urged participation in the Regional One Health Call-to-Action to collectively enhance health for all living beings.
- The emphasis on cooperation aims to address ongoing and emerging health threats effectively.
Support from Development Partners
Key stakeholders, including the World Bank Group, expressed their commitment to supporting regional health initiatives. Achim Fock, Zambia Country Manager for the World Bank, stated that effective health security is achievable through better coordination.
- The World Bank will assist in developing inclusive and resilient One Health systems.
- Community-focused solutions are highlighted as essential for long-term sustainability.
- Continued dialogue and partnership will pave the way for enhanced health security.
Public Engagement and Next Steps
The Regional One Health Joint Call-to-Action has been published online, inviting the public to lend their support. By signing the call, individuals are joining a larger movement aimed at strengthening health systems.
- Available for public access, the initiative encourages widespread participation in health advocacy.
- The conference promotes ongoing discourse on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
- Participants hope to inspire future collaborations across sectors and nations.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
