MARGARET CHISANGA
Lusaka
MINISTER of Health Elijah Muchima says the establishment of the Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) under the Health Emergency Preparedness, Response and Resilience, Multi-phase Programmatic Approach (HEPRR-MPA) Programme for Eastern and Southern Africa is a major step toward building a safer, healthier and more resilient Africa.
Speaking at the official opening of the 3rd RAC meeting in Lusaka on Tuesday, Dr Muchima said the gathering brings together regional health leaders, the World Bank, WHO, Africa CDC, AUDA-NEPAD, ECSA-HC and IGAD to strengthen collaboration against public health threats.
He noted that recent years have tested public health systems with disease outbreaks, climate shocks and economic challenges. The HEPRR-MPA initiative, funded by the World Bank and implemented through ECSA-HC and IGAD, was designed to build a cohesive, multi-sectoral framework where preparedness and resilience are regional rather than isolated national actions.
Dr Muchima commended participating countries for progress made, including the establishment of national coordination units for health emergency preparedness. He said Zambia has strengthened zoonotic disease surveillance, cross-border collaboration and integration of One Health principles.
“Our collaboration is not limited to emergencies. Through Communities of Practice, we are advancing work on antimicrobial resistance, local manufacturing, climate and health, and mental health,” he said, urging delegates to deepen data-sharing and mobilise sustainable financing, including investments in local vaccine production.
ECSA-HC Director General Dr Ntuli Kapologwe said the RAC plays a central role in providing strategic direction, promoting policy alignment and ensuring that country-level implementation is coherent with regional priorities. He reported progress since the last meeting in Addis Ababa, including expanded surveillance, stronger digital platforms, enhanced laboratory capacity and workforce development.
Implementing nations include Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, São Tomé and Príncipe, Mozambique and Ethiopia…
