Continental Cholera Response Plan Unveiled in Lusaka
The fight against cholera in Africa has entered a new phase with the launch of a six-month continental response plan. Announced on August 26 in Lusaka, Zambia, the initiative is led by Africa CDC and WHO, and championed by African Union Cholera Champion H.E. President Hakainde Hichilema. It aims to eliminate cholera by 2030 through urgent action, coordinated leadership and increased investment.
President Hichilema has played a central role in mobilising political commitment across the continent. His call in June 2025 to African Heads of State led to pledges for stronger investment, cross-border coordination and expanded vaccine access — laying the groundwork for the newly launched plan.
The strategy focuses on seven priorities areas will be implemented through the Continental Cholera Incident Management Support Team (IMST), integrated with the Mpox IMST, and co-led by Africa CDC and WHO to ensure rapid, unified responses supported by technical and logistical expertise.
Africa CDC Director General Dr Jean Kaseya said the plan is designed to save lives by reducing cholera-related deaths and strengthening preparedness and coordination across the continent. He underscored the importance of strong political leadership, technical expertise and continental solidarity in moving closer to a cholera-free Africa.
To accelerate progress, Africa CDC and WHO will also support the creation of the African Continental Task Force on Cholera Control. This body will align Member States and partners with global elimination targets, establish National Presidential Task Forces, and mobilise resources — including vaccines. With cases and deaths projected to surge in the coming months, coordinated action is more urgent than ever.
📥 Read the full brief in your preferred language:
👉 English PDF – Africa CDC Weekly Brief | 25 – 31 August 2025
👉 Version française – Bulletin Hebdomadaire d’Africa CDC | 25 – 31 Aout 2025
🔗 For direct inquiries or media engagement: communications@africacdc.org
