28 November 2023, Lusaka, Zambia – The 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2023) kicked off on Monday in Lusaka, Zambia, welcoming a distinguished gathering of African Heads of State, health ministers, renowned scientists, innovators, and researchers. Under the theme “Breaking Barriers: Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Architecture,” the four-day event aims to put under the spotlight cutting-edge research, innovations, and African-led solutions aimed at addressing public health challenges.
In recent years, African nations, propelled by institutions like the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), have made significant strides in public health. Coordination efforts have strengthened disease surveillance and outbreak response, enhancing the continent’s ability to combat health emergencies swiftly.
Despite this progress, Africa continues to grapple with persistent challenges: infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS claim millions of lives annually, noncommunicable diseases are on the rise, and maternal mortality rates remain alarmingly high.
H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, emphasized, “Africa faces substantial barriers, yet our collective resilience and innovation are dismantling these barriers, forging a New Public Health Order for the continent. CPHIA 2023 will drive conversations shaping Africa’s health future, spotlighting indigenous research, health innovations, and best practices. Our continent is a bastion of remarkable knowledge and innovation, and this conference will showcase Africa’s excellence, positioning it as a transformative force in global health.”
Hosted by the African Union and Africa CDC in collaboration with the Zambia Ministry of Health and the Zambia National Public Health Institute, CPHIA 2023 spans four days from 27th to 30th November 2023. The conference agenda boasts 9 plenary sessions, 18 parallel sessions, high-level special sessions, 18 abstract-driven sessions, and over 100 side events. This in-person gathering follows three days of virtual programming, including virtual abstract sessions and side events.
Prof. Senait Fisseha, CPHIA 2023 Co-Chair and Vice President of Global Programs at the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, remarked, “CPHIA’s genesis during the COVID-19 pandemic marked a pivotal moment for Africa and the world. The virtual collaboration in 2021 and the in-person congregation in 2022 fortified us as a continent. CPHIA 2023 builds on this foundation, amplifying African voices and solutions to fortify robust, responsive, and resilient health systems in Africa.”
Discussions at the Lusaka conference will delve into resilient financing mechanisms to bolster pandemic preparedness, advancements in local production of vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics, equitable healthcare access for women and girls, and multi-sectoral response strategies to enhance health security across the continent.
“Following the successes of CPHIA 2021 and 2022, this year’s gathering will spotlight how African researchers and health leaders harness scientific research and innovations to pioneer solutions for enduring challenges, providing invaluable insights for the global community,” noted Prof. Margaret Gyapong, CPHIA 2023 Co-Chair and Director of the Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Applied Sciences.
Distinguished personalities gracing the event include H.E. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia; Honourable Sylvia Masebo, Zambia’s Minister of Health; Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization; African Union Commission Chairperson H.E. Moussa Faki; Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, World Health Organization Regional Director for Africa; and H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, among other luminaries.
Minister Sylvia Masebo of Zambia expressed pride in hosting CPHIA, labeling it as the largest congregation of health experts, leaders, and researchers in Africa. She eagerly anticipated fostering connections, collaborations, and mutual learning among delegates, envisioning a collective endeavor to dismantle barriers and establish a healthier, more prosperous Africa.
The commencement of CPHIA 2023 sets the stage for spirited dialogues, knowledge exchange, and transformative actions, steering Africa toward a future defined by resilient, equitable, and innovative healthcare systems. Stay tuned for GhanaHealthNest’s comprehensive coverage illuminating the evolving discussions and groundbreaking insights from the conference
