Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on African Union (AU) member states to enhance their support for the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to establish it as a premier public health institution. His appeal came after a meeting with Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya at the agency’s headquarters in Addis Ababa on Friday.
Abiy Ahmed emphasized Africa CDC’s crucial role in disease prevention, epidemic response, and research, urging African nations to strengthen their collective commitments to the agency.
"It is incumbent upon us to fortify this institution in collaboration with partners," he stated. "I call upon fellow African leaders to join efforts in establishing our continental public health agency as a premier institution, fully committed to advancing health across the continent."
Ethiopia, he added, is proud to host the Africa CDC and remains committed to its growth.
During the meeting, Kaseya reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to tackling Africa’s health challenges.
"At the Africa CDC, we look forward to continuing to work closely with Ethiopia to tackle major health challenges, fortify systems, and drive sustainable solutions for a healthier Africa. Together, we are building resilience and safeguarding the future," he said.