WHO/AFRO Strengthens South-South Cooperation at China-Africa Conference on Tropical Disease Control
As part of its mandate to accelerate the elimination of neglected tropical diseases in Africa, the Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN) actively participated in the China-Africa Technical Exchange Conference on Tropical Diseases Control and Prevention, held alongside the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, China.
Representing WHO/AFRO and ESPEN, Dr Pauline Mwinzi joined high-level experts and policy leaders to strengthen South-South cooperation and advance a shared commitment to accelerate NTD elimination across the African continent. The conference provided a strategic platform explore how Chinese innovations, tools, and technical expertise can complement Africa’s evidence-based, country-driven health priorities.
At the heart of the engagement was the launch of the China–Africa Joint Prevention and Control Initiative for Tropical Diseases, a symbolic multilateral declaration signaling reinforced political ill and united efforts in tropical disease prevention. This initiative aligns closely with ESPEN’s strategic focus on fostering cross-regional collaboration, promoting localized innovation, and strengthening country ownership in NTD responses.
The event also resulted in the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Chinese and African institutions on schistosomiasis and malaria control, with participating countries including Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, Senegal, and Zambia. These MoUs will unlock new pathways for institutional cooperation, share technology, and initiate joint training and research programs.
Through her participation, Dr. Mwinzi contributed to shaping the technical agenda on schistosomiasis control, reinforcing WHO/AFRO’s coordinating role in fostering regional collaboration and driving action on national commitments.
Why This Matters
This engagement strengthens ESPEN’s position as a strategic catalyst for innovation, partnership, and visibility across Africa’s NTD landscape. In particular, the outcomes support ESPEN’s vision by highlighting:
The value of south-south collaboration for technology transfer and innovation.
The need for institutional partnerships to ensure sustainability.
The importance of localized, evidence-based planning.
The power of political visibility and advocacy to drive momentum.
As ESPEN continues to serve as a bridge between country needs and global capabilities, its proactive engagement in initiatives such as the China–Africa technical exchange demonstrates its enduring commitment to accelerating NTD elimination, enhancing programmatic efficiency, and driving results for communities most affected by these diseases.