WHO-AFRO Launches Groundbreaking Strategy to End Diseases in Africa

Brazzaville, Republic of Congo - The World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO-AFRO) is excited to unveil its comprehensive new strategic framework, “Ending Disease in Africa.” This bold initiative is a pivotal step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 3, which is focused on ensuring "healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages."

In 2019, WHO-AFRO established the Universal Health Coverage/Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases cluster (UCN) to enhance the integration of disease prevention and control programs within a health system strengthening framework. This approach is data-centric, results-focused, and employs an integrated cluster management strategy. The UCN is tasked with delivering WHO AFRO’s strategic agenda in four critical areas of the SDGs, namely universal health coverage, NCDs and ageing, communicable disease control, and the endgame strategies for neglected tropical diseases.

The strategic framework has been developed through extensive consultations, identifying priority issues and common themes that have impeded progress towards the SDGs and General Programme of Work 13 targets. These consultations have been instrumental in shaping the strategy and ensuring that it addresses the most pressing health challenges in the African region.

One of the key operational and strategic shifts in the new agenda focuses on 11 priority communicable and non-communicable diseases. The UCN strategic agenda for 2023–2030 is designed to close gaps in disease prevention and control. This will be achieved through effective collaboration with governments and development partners, directing resources and services towards equitable and sustainable solutions to longstanding health problems.

As the specialized health agency of the UN system, WHO has the mandate to support Member States in achieving SDG 3, which emphasizes good health and well-being. This strategic framework represents a significant commitment from WHO-AFRO to work towards these goals in the African region, addressing both longstanding and emerging health challenges with innovative and integrated approaches.

Stay informed about this groundbreaking journey towards a healthier Africa through the ESPEN NTD Portal.