Strategic Leadership for Health Campaign Integration: The DPC Cluster and ESPEN Support the Democratic Republic of The Congo
Lumumbashi (Democratic Republic of the Congo) - From 27 to 29 April 2026, under the coordination of the Secretary General for Public Health, Dr. Body Ilonga Bompoko, the city of Lubumbashi hosted a pivotal national workshop to develop the multi-year health campaign integration plan (2026–2028) for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Official group photo of national authorities, partners, and the WHO tripartite team during the opening ceremony in Lubumbashi. © WHOAFRO / ESPEN
A Tripartite WHO Expertise
This major milestone received direct technical support from a joint mission of the WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO). The tripartite team, representing the Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control (DPC) cluster, brought together experts from ESPEN (Neglected Tropical Diseases), TVD (Tropical and Vector-borne Diseases), and VPD (Vaccine Preventable Diseases). This synergy demonstrates WHO's commitment to supporting national leadership in the transition toward more coordinated interventions.
Closing session: Health experts and officials reaffirm their joint commitment to implementing the 2026–2028 multi-year plan. © WHOAFRO / ESPEN
Rationalization and Operational Impact
The workshop resulted in the identification of 33 integrated public health campaigns. The integration of high-impact interventions, such as immunization, mass drug administration for NTDs, and vitamin A supplementation aims to optimize human and financial resources while safeguarding routine care. The presentation of the DIGIT HCM digital platform, developed by the eGOV Foundation, further highlighted the central role of data management in supporting rigorous planning.
Technical working group sessions focusing on campaign integration opportunities and digital data management tools. © WHO / ESPEN
Partnership and Resource Mobilization
The success of this planning illustrates the power of collaborative action. We commend the commitment of the DRC authorities and thank all the partners who contributed to this shared vision: UNICEF, Gavi, the Gates Foundation, the Global Fund, the eGOV Foundation, the Health Campaign Effectiveness Coalition, as well as VillageReach, Helen Keller International, ACASASUS, SANRU, PATH, CHAI, and Sydani Group.
For ESPEN, integration is an essential lever for efficiency. By consolidating our operational efforts, we enhance the overall impact of our interventions. We invite the donor community to continue their support to transform this roadmap into concrete and sustainable actions for the DRC's health system.
Strategic consultation among health partners to align operational and financial resources with the DRC's integration priorities. © WHO / ESPEN
To learn more: