Africa CDC and ECDC co-host side event on Antimicrobial Resistance at 8th World One Health Congress
A side event titled “Tackling Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Through One Health Approaches in Africa” took place on 20 September 2024, during the 8th World One Health Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.
Co-organised by Africa CDC and ECDC, the side event brought together more than 100 participants, including experts from ministries of health, agriculture, and the environment, as well as representatives from international organisations. The discussions emphasised the importance of integrating human, animal, and environmental health to combat AMR and infectious diseases in Africa.
Opening remarks from Africa CDC and ECDC set the tone and highlighted successful One Health initiatives in both Africa and the EU. ECDC presented the EU’s inter-agency joint reporting on antimicrobial consumption and resistance (JIACRA) between 2015 and 2024, providing valuable insights into how such collaborative efforts can improve health outcomes.
A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring experts from across sectors who shared strategies and lessons learned from One Health programmes in Africa and Europe. The dialogue underscored the need for increased collaboration, resource mobilisation, and best practices to enhance health security on the continent.
The event closed with a summary of key points and recommendations, stressing the critical role of investment in research, surveillance, and capacity building for One Health activities in Africa. By fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, the initiative supports the strengthening of Africa’s public health systems.
The side event formed part of the “Africa CDC – ECDC Partnership” project, which focuses on harmonising surveillance systems and bolstering health capacities across Africa.
