One Health Regional Call to Action Launched in Zambia
In a pivotal moment for public health in Eastern and Southern Africa, government ministers have signed a landmark One Health Regional Call to Action during the inaugural Eastern and Southern Africa Regional One Health Conference in Lusaka, Zambia. This initiative aims to enhance the interconnected health of people, animals, plants, and ecosystems across the SADC Member States.
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- Event marked by commitment from Ministers of Health, Agriculture, and Environment.
- Focus on strengthening One Health systems regionally.
- Joint collaboration among various sectors to enhance health security.
Significance of the Conference
The conference, co-organized by the Zambian government, SADC, and notable international bodies, emphasizes the necessity of integrated health approaches. The objective is to create a cohesive strategy for health security and public resource management.
- Hosted by the Government of Zambia, the event aims to unify health efforts.
- Involves major organizations such as the World Bank, FAO, WHO, and UNEP.
- Encourages multi-sectoral collaboration to address health threats.
Keynote Address and Call to Action
Honorable Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, Zambian Minister of Health, stressed the importance of a multi-sector approach to health during his keynote speech. He highlighted how past practices have led to inefficiencies and stressed the urgency for combined efforts.
- Muchima urges collective action to improve public health systems.
- Calls for a sustainable One Health approach in addressing health security.
- Stresses the need for efficient use of public resources in health sectors.
Conference Agenda and Focus Areas
The two-day conference features thematic sessions aimed at addressing cross-sector health threats. Attendees will discuss innovative strategies in areas such as economic resilience, integrated surveillance, and climate-related health issues.
- The focus includes transboundary threats like infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
- Highlights the importance of building a next-generation One Health workforce.
- Sessions will cover conservation and climate to ensure a holistic approach.
Innovation Marketplace and Community Engagement
One exciting aspect of the conference is the Innovation Marketplace, showcasing global and local One Health solutions. This includes participation from five Zambian organizations, reflecting local innovation in health practices.
- Marketplace features diverse health solutions from global researchers and entrepreneurs.
- Local organizations highlight unique contributions to the One Health initiative.
- Encourages community involvement in health innovation and support.
Global Insights and Future Commitments
Achim Fock, The World Bank Group’s Zambia Country Manager, reaffirmed the region’s dedication to building resilient health systems. He emphasized the essential link between effective health security and sustainable development in the region.
- Commits to supporting governments in creating inclusive health systems.
- Stresses the importance of community-centered health solutions.
- Highlights the necessity of collaboration for effective health strategies.
Public Support for One Health
The One Health Regional Joint Call-to-Action is now public, inviting individuals to add their names in support of this important initiative. The online platform serves as a rallying point for increased awareness and commitment to health integration.
- Available online for public engagement and support.
- Encourages nationwide participation in the One Health movement.
- Aims to foster a collective responsibility for health security.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
