In a continent facing unprecedented health challenges, where every outbreak echoes the cries of millions, the need for transparent, timely updates has never been more urgent—could this briefing be the turning point in Africa's fight for health security?
Hey there, fellow journalists and health enthusiasts! We're excited to invite you to a special event that's all about shining a light on Africa's public health landscape. This Thursday, join us for the Weekly Special Press Briefing on Health Emergencies, hosted by none other than Dr. Jean Kaseya, the esteemed Director-General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). He'll be diving deep into the latest developments in public health across the continent, spotlighting the impressive regional efforts underway to combat diseases, and exploring ways to foster stronger partnerships that bolster preparedness and overall health security. Imagine this as your front-row seat to understanding how Africa is rallying its resources—think coordinated responses to epidemics that could inspire global strategies.
But here's where it gets controversial: While some praise these international collaborations as beacons of unity, others argue they often come with strings attached, raising questions about sovereignty and equitable resource distribution. Is this truly empowerment, or just another layer of external influence? We'll touch on these dynamics during the briefing.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 20, 2025. Depending on where you are in Africa, here's the timing to ensure you're tuned in:
- 16:00hrs to 17:00hrs East Africa Time (GMT +3)
- 15:00hrs to 16:00hrs Southern Africa Time (GMT +2)
- 14:00hrs to 15:00hrs for Central African Countries (GMT +1)
- 13:00hrs to 14:00hrs for West African Countries (GMT)
This virtual gathering will take place seamlessly via Zoom, so you can join from anywhere with an internet connection. Simply register using this link: https://africacdc-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xz8mTOxGSgKfu1QsJNLb6g. And this is the part most people miss—there's also a live stream available soon, perfect for those who want to follow along without the interactive elements.
Leading the conversation will be Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, with moderation handled by Margaret Muigai Edwin, the Director of Communication & Public Information at Africa CDC.
To make it accessible for everyone, the briefing will be conducted in both English and French, with live interpretation provided.
Journalists, we want your voices in the mix! You can submit questions ahead of time by WhatsApp to +251 945 502 310—just include your full name and media organization. Or, go live and ask directly through the Zoom platform during the session.
For any media inquiries or further details, reach out to Margaret Muigai Edwin at the Directorate of Communication & Public Information, Africa CDC. You can call her at +255 742 635 592 or email edwinm@africacdc.org.
A quick note on Africa CDC: As a specialized agency of the African Union, it's dedicated to empowering member states by strengthening health systems. This includes enhancing surveillance to detect threats early, improving emergency responses—like rapid deployment teams during outbreaks—and promoting prevention and control measures against diseases. For instance, think of how they coordinated efforts during past crises, such as Ebola responses, to save lives and build resilience. Dive deeper into their work at https://africacdc.org/.
What do you think? Does Africa CDC's approach truly represent a step forward in self-reliance, or should there be more emphasis on local innovations over global partnerships? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you agree, disagree, or have a counterpoint we've missed? Let's keep the conversation going!
