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Zoonotic Disease: Prevention and Control Strategy 2025-2029

Public health challenges over the past decade have highlighted the importance of approaching health through a holistic lens of human, animal, and environmental sectors, recognizing the need for a collaborative response against shared threats. Zoonotic diseases, transmitted between humans and animals through their shared environment, are at the forefront of the threats requiring collaborations that span human health, natural ecosystems, and food systems.

Africa, with its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, stands at the forefront of this battle, grappling with the burden of zoonoses while striving for sustainable development. Over the past decade, the continent has seen a significant rise in zoonotic disease outbreaks. Several interconnected factors drive this increasing burden of zoonotic diseases, including but not limited to rapid human population growth, greater demand for animal products, expansion of animal populations, wildlife habitat destruction, globalization, cultural practices, and climate change. The African Union (AU), in an effort to respond to the burden of zoonotic diseases, established the AU One Health Coordination Group on Zoonotic Diseases to mobilize resources, expertise, and political will to formulate an African Union One Health Zoonotic Disease Prevention and Control Strategy tailored to the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities. The goal is clear: reduce mortality, minimize morbidity, and avert the economic losses brought about by zoonotic diseases.

Aligned with the visionary AU Agenda 2063 and bolstered by the principles of the One Health approach, this strategy embodies our shared vision for sustainable health systems capable of effectively reducing the impact of zoonotic diseases on the continent. The strategy sets forth ambitious goals and practical measures to enhance surveillance, strengthen healthcare systems, promote research and innovation, and foster cross-border collaboration. Moreover, this strategy underscores the imperative of partnerships. Recognizing that the fight against zoonotic diseases transcends national boundaries, we embrace a collaborative ethos, engaging stakeholders at all levels – from communities to international organizations – to forge a united front against this common threat.

As we embark on this journey, we acknowledge the formidable challenges ahead. Yet, we are imbued with a sense of optimism, reinforced by the continent’s resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to collective action. Together, we stand ready to transform the landscape of zoonotic disease prevention and control in Africa, safeguarding the health and well-being of current and future generations.

Therefore, we call for collective action from Member States, regional economic communities, and global partners to implement the strategy and create or strengthen multi-sectoral coordination mechanisms aimed at reducing the burden of zoonotic diseases within our shared strategic vision and goals for building a healthier, more prosperous Africa.

H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya
Director General, Africa CDC

Dr. Huyam Salih
Director, AU-IBAR

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