Michael Gwarisa
In a move aimed at strengthening collaboration to advance health security, workforce development, and resilient public health systems across Africa, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FHI 360.
The MoU sets in motion a structured framework for cooperation aligned with Africa CDC’s Strategic Plan 2023–2027, the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda, and the Lusaka Agenda.
In a statement, Africa CDC Director General Jean Kaseya said the partnership seeks to strengthen surveillance systems, epidemic intelligence, laboratory networks, health workforce capacity, and emergency preparedness and response capabilities. The collaboration will also support digital transformation, institutional capacity building, and integrated health systems that promote sustainability and national ownership.
“Strengthening Africa’s health security demands partnerships built on mutual accountability and results,” said Dr Kaseya.
“This MoU with FHI 360 reinforces our commitment to supporting African Union Member States in building resilient, self-reliant systems that can prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats, while accelerating national ownership and sustainable financing for preparedness. It advances our broader vision of health sovereignty across the continent.”
FHI 360, a global nonprofit organization working in more than 50 countries, brings decades of experience in infectious disease control, surveillance systems, laboratory strengthening, data platforms, and workforce development. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting African Union Member States in building integrated, efficient, and sustainable public health systems.
FHI 360 Chief Executive Officer Tessie San Martin said the collaboration comes at a time when continental sovereignty is critical to the region’s future.
“For more than five decades, FHI 360 has worked shoulder to shoulder with governments and civil society across Africa to respond to health threats and promote strong, resilient health systems,” she said.
“We share Africa CDC’s vision of a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Africa. An essential part of achieving this vision requires strengthening national capacities to detect and respond to public health emergencies, while also improving domestic health financing, workforce development, and manufacturing capacity. These pillars form the foundation of continental health sovereignty and will enhance African autonomy and preparedness.”
The collaboration will also align with evolving global health security frameworks and reinforce efforts to transition toward country-led, government-to-government engagement, integrated data systems, private sector participation, and performance-linked financing models that strengthen accountability and sustainability.
