Author: Derrick Ochuot

African Union Reaffirms Commitment to Immunization and Health Equity During Africa Vaccination Week 2026

The African Union Commission, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Gavi, civil society organizations, and development partners, commemorated Africa Vaccination Week 2026 under the theme: “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work.”

The high-level gathering underscored the critical role of immunization as one of the most effective, equitable, and cost-efficient public health interventions for advancing Africa’s health security, strengthening primary health care systems, and accelerating progress toward Agenda 2063 and Universal Health Coverage.

Speakers emphasized that vaccines are not only a health investment but also a driver of economic resilience, productivity, and sustainable development. The meeting reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to the Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization and the continent’s Five-Year Roadmap for Vaccine Equity and Local Manufacturing.

Representing H.E. Amb. Amma Adomaa Twum-Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development of the African Union Commission, Prof. Julio Rakotonirina, Director for Health and Humanitarian Affairs, highlighted that immunization remains central to Africa’s development agenda.

He noted that through Agenda 2063, the Africa Health Strategy, and the Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization, African Union Member States have committed to:

  • Expanding universal access to immunization
  • Increasing domestic financing for vaccination programs
  • Strengthening delivery systems and surveillance
  • Advancing local vaccine manufacturing
  • Building resilient primary health care systems

 

Prof. Rakotonirina acknowledged the progress made across the continent through expanded immunization programs and partnerships with WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, Africa CDC, and the African Medicines Agency, while cautioning that inequitable access, vaccine hesitancy, and overreliance on external financing continue to threaten sustainability.

He called upon Member States and partners to prioritize:

  • Sustainable domestic investment in immunization
  • Integration of vaccination into strong primary health care systems
  • Community engagement and trust-building to improve vaccine uptake

Delivering remarks during the event, regional leaders from WHO and UNICEF stressed that immunization remains foundational to resilient health systems and equitable development.

UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Etleva (Eva) Kadilli, emphasized that vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives globally over the past 50 years, yet millions of African children still miss essential vaccines each year. She highlighted the importance of:

  • Integrating immunization into primary health care
  • Using digital tools and data systems to identify zero-dose children
  • Investing in community health workers
  • Strengthening cold chain systems and supply chains
  • Expanding sustainable domestic financing

 

She noted that immunization equity is fundamentally linked to inclusion, governance, and strong community trust.

Representing the Government of Kenya, Dr. Salim Ali Hussein, the Head of the Division of Primary Health Care, reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to universal immunization and equitable access to life-saving vaccines.

He highlighted that Kenya’s national immunization programme currently protects against 16 vaccine-preventable diseases through more than 8,000 health facilities nationwide, contributing significantly to reductions in child mortality.

Dr. Ali further emphasized Kenya’s ongoing reforms to:

  • Integrate immunization within primary health care and Universal Health Coverage
  • Expand outreach to underserved and mobile populations
  • Empower community health promoters
  • Strengthen local vaccine manufacturing and health system resilience

 

He stressed that immunization is a social contract between governments and citizens and a cornerstone for achieving equitable and inclusive development.

Civil society organizations also called for stronger investments in community engagement and trust-building to address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.

Speaking on behalf of civil society organizations, Dr. Joseph Komwihangiro of Pathfinder International underscored that vaccine hesitancy is fundamentally a trust issue shaped by access, history, culture, and lived community experiences.

He called for:

  • Greater investment in frontline health workers
  • Long-term and flexible financing for community engagement
  • Inclusion of civil society organizations as co-partners
  • Community feedback to be treated as actionable data in policy and programme design

 

Participants further stressed the importance of strengthening Africa’s vaccine manufacturing capacity to reduce dependency on external supplies and improve continental health sovereignty.

The event concluded with renewed calls for African governments, partners, and stakeholders to intensify investments in immunization systems, reinforce accountability for continental commitments, and ensure that no child or community is left behind.

The commemoration reaffirmed that immunization remains central to Africa’s vision for a healthier, more resilient, and prosperous continent where every generation is protected.

 

For further information please contact: 

Mr. Derrick Ochuot | Strategic Communication Expert | Directorate of Health and Humanitarian Affairs | Health Systems, Diseases and Nutrition Division | African Union Commission | E-mail: OchuotD@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org I Web: au. int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

African Union Strengthens Continental Coordination for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health in Africa

The African Union Commission (AUC), through the Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, convened the Second Meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) in Africa from 4-5 March 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya.

The meeting brought together representatives of African Union Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), technical institutions, and development partners including WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, and other stakeholders to strengthen continental coordination and accelerate action toward ending preventable maternal, newborn, child and adolescent deaths across Africa.

The Technical Advisory Committee, established under the African Union’s commitments on maternal, newborn and child health adopted during the 15th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in Kampala in 2010, serves as a continental technical body mandated to provide evidence-based guidance and strategic recommendations to the Specialized Technical Committee on Health, Nutrition, Population and Drug Control (STC-HNPDC).

Opening the meeting on behalf of H.E. Amb. Amma Adomaa Twum-Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Prof. Julio Rakotonirina, Director of Health and Humanitarian Affairs, underscored the urgency of accelerating progress in reducing maternal and child mortality across the continent.

He noted that despite measurable progress, Africa still accounts for approximately 70 percent of global maternal deaths, emphasizing that most maternal deaths remain preventable. He therefore called for:

  • Strengthened accountability mechanisms
  • Increased investment in primary health care
  • Improved utilization of data and digital systems
  • Enhanced multisectoral coordination
  • Sustained political leadership and financing for RMNCAH priorities

 

Prof. Rakotonirina further reaffirmed that the TAC remains central to shaping continental health policy and supporting implementation of Agenda 2063, the Africa Health Strategy 2016-2030, the Revised Maputo Plan of Action, and the CARMMA Plus Roadmap 2021–2030.

Delivering keynote remarks on behalf of Member States, Dr. Ananie Ndacayisaba of Burundi emphasized that while progress has been recorded in RMNCAH indicators, critical gaps remain in maternal and neonatal mortality, access to family planning, and addressing sexual and gender-based violence.

He stressed the importance of:

  • Strengthening integration of RMNCAH services within national health systems
  • Expanding adolescent and youth-friendly services
  • Enhancing research, innovation, and knowledge-sharing
  • Addressing geographic and socio-economic inequities
  • Ensuring vulnerable populations are represented in decision-making processes

 

Representing Regional Economic Communities, Ms. Ida Ameyovi Agbemavor of CEN-SAD reaffirmed the strategic role of RECs in advancing RMNCAH priorities and strengthening regional coordination. She highlighted ongoing initiatives to:

  • Improve health workforce capacity
  • Expand access to health services in rural and cross-border communities
  • Organize regional outreach and health caravans
  • Harmonize continental and regional RMNCAH strategies

 

Speaking on behalf of United Nations agencies, Dr. Janet Kayita of the World Health Organization reaffirmed the continued commitment of WHO, UNICEF, and UNFPA to supporting African Union Member States in advancing equitable access to integrated RMNCAH services.

She highlighted the urgency of accelerating implementation of the CARMMA Plus Roadmap 2021-2030 and welcomed the appointment of H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, as African Union Champion for Maternal and Child Health. Dr. Kayita further emphasized the importance of leveraging continental priorities on education, water and sanitation, and health systems strengthening to improve health outcomes for women, children, and adolescents.

A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of progress and achievements under the CARMMA Plus Campaign between 2022 and 2025. Participants reviewed progress in:

  • Regional launches of the CARMMA Plus campaign
  • Strengthening collaboration with Regional Economic Communities
  • Revitalization of the CARMMA Plus digital platform
  • RMNCAH advocacy initiatives and continental campaigns
  • Integration of RMNCAH priorities into regional health strategies
  • Strengthening accountability and monitoring systems

 

The meeting also showcased the newly revitalized CARMMA Plus digital platform, presented by Mr. Derrick Oduck Ochuot, Strategic Communication Expert. The platform serves as a continental knowledge-sharing and communication hub for RMNCAH information, best practices, country progress updates, and advocacy resources. Future enhancements are expected to include:

  • A continental RMNCAH dashboard
  • Interactive country profiles
  • Online learning and certification modules
  • Digital knowledge management systems
  • Monitoring and accountability tools

 

During the meeting, members also reviewed and discussed the Terms of Reference of the TAC, emphasizing the need for:

  • Stronger inclusion of digital health and digitalization of services
  • Clearer operational modalities for leadership rotation
  • Enhanced engagement of civil society and faith-based organizations
  • Sustainable financing mechanisms for TAC activities
  • Greater harmonization of RMNCAH indicators and scorecards across Member States

 

The meeting further elected the leadership of the Technical Advisory Committee for a three-year term representing the five African Union regions:

  • Chair: Burundi (Central Africa)
  • 1st Vice Chair: Togo (West Africa)
  • 2nd Vice Chair: Seychelles (East Africa)
  • 3rd Vice Chair: Zimbabwe (Southern Africa)
  • Rapporteur: Morocco (North Africa)

 

Participants additionally developed and refined the TAC Workplan for 2026–2028, focusing on:

  • Development of a continental RMNCAH Status Report
  • Strengthening advocacy and accountability mechanisms
  • Establishment of an RMNCAH continental scorecard
  • Promotion of digital health and innovation
  • Resource mobilization and investment advocacy
  • Strengthening peer learning and South-South collaboration
  • Organizing continental RMNCAH review and accountability forums

 

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments by Member States, Regional Economic Communities, development partners, and the African Union Commission to strengthen collaboration and accelerate implementation of the CARMMA Plus Roadmap to ensure that no woman, child, or adolescent is left behind.

The African Union Commission reaffirmed that strengthened technical leadership, accountability, and coordinated continental action remain essential for achieving Africa’s health and development aspirations under Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

For further information please contact: 

Mr. Derrick Ochuot | Strategic Communication Expert | Directorate of Health and Humanitarian Affairs | Health Systems, Diseases and Nutrition Division | African Union Commission | E-mail: OchuotD@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org I Web: au. int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Second Meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH)

INVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

What: Second Meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH)

When: Wednesday and Thursday, 4-5 March 2026

Where: Double Tree Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya

Who: Convened by the African Union Commission (AUC) through the Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development

Participants include:

  • AU Member States Experts representing the five AU regions (Morocco – Northern Region; Togo – Western Region; Seychelles – Eastern Region; Zimbabwe – Southern Region; Burundi – Central Region)
  • African Union Commission representatives (Secretariat of the TAC for RMNCAH)
  • Regional Economic Communities (RECs), including West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO) and the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC)
  • Development partners and stakeholders including UNFPA, WHO, UNICEF and IPPF

Background:
The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for RMNCAH was established to provide technical guidance, reviews and strategic recommendations to the Specialized Technical Committee on Health, Nutrition, Population and Drug Control (STC-HNPDC) on matters relating to reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health across the continent

The TAC builds on key continental commitments, including:

  • The 2010 AU Assembly Declaration on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
  • The Africa Health Strategy 2016–2030
  • The revised Maputo Plan of Action (2016–2030)
  • The CARMMA Plus Roadmap (2021–2030)
  • The AU Roadmap to 2030 on Sustaining the AIDS Response and Strengthening Health Systems

Despite progress, Africa still accounts for approximately 70% of global maternal deaths, with most of these deaths being preventable. Current progress remains insufficient to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030

The Second Meeting of the TAC for RMNCAH will review and adopt its Terms of Reference (ToR), elect rotating leadership, assess continental progress, and develop a comprehensive workplan for 2026–2028. The meeting will also prepare strategic recommendations to inform deliberations at the 6th STC-HNPDC in 2026

Objectives of the event are to:

  1. Review and adopt the revised Terms of Reference and implementation modalities
  2. Elect the TAC leadership, in line with the three-year rotational mandate
  3. Take stock of continental progress on RMNCAH and consolidate strategic recommendations
  4. Identify key priorities and develop the 2026–2028 workplan
  5. Agree on timelines and preparations for the next physical meeting

Expected outcomes include:

  1. Adoption of TAC leadership, governance structure and membership
  2. Agreement on key priorities and recommendations for the STC-HNPDC
  3. Development of the 2026 Plan of Action for the RMNCAH TAC

Participation at the event:
Attendance for members of the press is by invitation only.

Media representatives are invited to submit requests to attend or interview delegates to:

African Union Champions Digital Health Transformation to Accelerate Maternal and Child Survival in Africa

On the margins of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly, the African Union Commission convened a High-Level Side Event on Digital Health Technologies for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) under the theme: “Strengthening Integrated WASH-RMNCAH Systems through Digital and Data-Driven Approaches to Advance the Maputo Plan of Action and CARMMA Plus.”

The event underscored Africa’s urgent need to accelerate progress in ending preventable maternal, newborn, and child deaths, leveraging digital transformation as a strategic enabler. Despite progress under the CARMMA Plus Campaign and the Maputo Plan of Action, Africa’s maternal mortality ratio remains unacceptably high at 442 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global maternal deaths

In her welcome remarks, H.E. Amb. Amma A. Twum-Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, emphasized that digital health is no longer optional, but essential for strengthening primary health care systems, integrating WASH and RMNCAH services, and reinforcing accountability across Member States.

She highlighted that digital and interoperable systems can:

  • Enable real-time monitoring of maternal and newborn outcomes
  • Improve referral systems and emergency obstetric care
  • Strengthen supply chain management
  • Enhance accountability and transparency
  • Expand equitable access to underserved and last-mile communities

Represented by Hon. Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa, H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania and Guest of Honour, reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to digital health transformation. Tanzania’s innovations, including digital maternal death reviews, telemedicine, and the M-Mama emergency referral platform, were highlighted as practical examples of technology-guided health system strengthening

Representing the Director General of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Landry Dongmo Tsague described maternal mortality as a “silent emergency,” noting that preventable maternal deaths remain a moral and public health failure. He reaffirmed Africa CDC’s Health Security and Sovereignty agenda, emphasizing digital transformation and the flagship “Sovereign Data for Health” initiative as central pillars for building resilient health systems.

Ms. Alison Barker, UNICEF Deputy Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, called for digital transformation to be anchored in resilient, sustainably financed primary health care systems, ensuring equity for vulnerable and last-mile populations.

Dr. Hanan Balkhy of the World Health Organization and Ms. Diene Keita of the United Nations Population Fund stressed that digital technologies can strengthen integrated WASH-RMNCAH systems, support frontline health workers, and improve data-driven decision-making, particularly in fragile and humanitarian settings.

Delivering a powerful keynote address, H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development, underscored that maternal health is fundamentally about dignity and justice. She emphasized that digital tools must protect privacy, strengthen inclusion, and reflect the lived realities of women and adolescent girls.

A major highlight of the event was the official launch of the CARMMA Plus Campaign website, a continental digital hub designed to:

  • Showcase Member State commitments and innovations
  • Enable progress tracking and accountability
  • Strengthen knowledge sharing and partnerships
  • Promote data-driven decision-making

The platform operationalizes the Campaign’s Accountability Partnership Framework and aligns with the African Union Digital Health Strategy 2024–2030.

Ministers and representatives from Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Zambia shared national experiences demonstrating how digital tools are improving high-risk pregnancy detection, referral systems, telemedicine services, supply chain monitoring, and immunization outreach

The panel discussion featured transformative innovations including:

  • Africa CDC’s PHC digitalization and e-Birth notification systems
  • Pathfinder’s GEO-ST4R geospatial decision-support platform
  • SAMASHA’s Motion Tracker for maternal and newborn accountability
  • Laerdal Global Health’s Safer Births Bundle of Care
  • Yene Health’s youth-centered and SMS-enabled reproductive health platforms

Speakers emphasized that digital health must move beyond applications to interoperable systems that connect policy, financing, service delivery, WASH standards, and measurable results.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Julio Rakotonirina, Director for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, called upon Member States to:

  • Expand digital infrastructure in underserved areas
  • Strengthen interoperability and break sectoral silos
  • Invest in local digital innovation and workforce capacity
  • Mobilize domestic resources to finance sustainable digital health systems

He emphasized that CARMMA Plus must be resourced as a Member State-driven accountability compact and that digital transformation must translate into measurable lives saved

The High-Level Side Event reaffirmed Africa’s collective commitment to harnessing digital transformation as a catalytic driver to advance the Maputo Plan of Action, accelerate the CARMMA Plus Campaign, and achieve Agenda 2063 aspirations for women, children, and adolescents.

 

For further information please contact: 

Mr. Derrick Ochuot | Strategic Communication Expert | Directorate of Health and Humanitarian Affairs | Health Systems, Diseases and Nutrition Division | African Union Commission | E-mail: OchuotD@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

HIGH-LEVEL SIDE EVENT ON DIGITAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES FOR RMNCAH IN AFRICA

INVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

What: High-Level Side Event on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Summit under the theme: “Strengthening Integrated WASH-RMNCAH Systems through Digital and Data-Driven Approaches to Advance the Maputo Plan of Action and CARMMA Plus.”

When: Friday, 13 February 2026, from 1300 hrs. to 1600 hrs. (EAT)

Where: Hilton Hotel, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Who: Organized by the African Union Commission (AUC) – Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development

Participants:

  • Heads of State and Government
  • Ministers of Health of AU Member States
  • African Union Commission and Africa CDC
  • Regional Economic Communities
  • National Digital Health Agencies
  • Development partners and donors
  • Civil society organizations and NGOs
  • Digital health innovators, private sector, and academia
  • Regional and continental health experts

Background:
On the margins of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Summit, the African Union Commission will convene a High-Level Side Event to spotlight the transformative role of digital health technologies in accelerating progress toward improved Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) outcomes in Africa.

Despite decades of investment and scientific progress, Africa continues to bear a disproportionate burden of global maternal and child mortality. In 2023, the continent recorded an estimated maternal mortality ratio of 442 deaths per 100,000 live births, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global maternal deaths. Neonatal mortality remains a critical challenge, with over one million preventable neonatal deaths occurring annually across Africa.

The event is convened within the framework of the African Union Theme of the Year 2026: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.” It highlights how digital and data-driven solutions can strengthen integrated WASH-RMNCAH systems, improve service delivery, enhance real-time monitoring, and support accountability across the continuum of care.

The side event further aligns with the Maputo Plan of Action (2016-2030), the CARMMA Plus Campaign, and the African Union Digital Health Strategy 2024-2030, positioning digital health as a key enabler for resilient, people-centered, and equitable health systems.

A key highlight of the event will be the official launch of the CARMMA Plus Website, a continental digital hub designed to enhance visibility, coordination, and accountability in efforts to end preventable maternal, newborn, and child deaths in Africa.

Objectives of the event are to:

  1. Sustain high-level political commitment to leveraging digital health technologies to advance RMNCAH outcomes in Africa
  2. Promote integrated digital solutions that strengthen WASH–RMNCAH systems across the continuum of care
  • Raise awareness of the African Union Digital Health Strategy 2024-2030 and its application at country level
  1. Strengthen multi-stakeholder collaboration among governments, partners, innovators, and civil society
  2. Officially launch the CARMMA Plus Website as a continental digital platform for advocacy, learning, and accountability

 

Expected outcomes include:

  1. Increased visibility of digital health as a catalyst for improved RMNCAH and WASH outcomes
  2. Strengthened political and institutional commitment to scaling digital health solutions across AU Member States
  • Enhanced alignment among governments, development partners, and innovators on digital health investments
  1. Actionable recommendations to accelerate the adoption and scale-up of digital health technologies for RMNCAH
  2. Official operationalization of the CARMMA Plus Website

Participation at the event:
Attendance for members of the press is by invitation only.

Media representatives are invited to submit requests to attend or interview delegates to:

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
Web: www.au.int  | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Africa Launches Country Profiles for Early Childhood Development Countdown to 2030

“Tracking progress, investing early: Advancing Early Childhood Development in Africa through evidence, data, and action”

Durban, South Africa, 23rd October 2025 – The Africa Early Childhood Network (AfECN), UNICEF, WHO, ECDAN, and partners, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, successfully launched the Africa Country Profiles for Early Childhood Development (ECD) Countdown to 2030 during CPHIA 2025 under track 6 entitled: Women and youth in Africa: Driving health and innovation. This high-level launch brought together leading experts, policymakers, and development partners to highlight data-driven strategies and investments that can transform early childhood outcomes by fostering stronger multi-sectoral action while sensitizing the AU Member States, partners, and stakeholders to the importance of data-driven, innovative regional approaches for tracking and accelerating progress in early childhood development across the continent.

The session opened with welcoming remarks from Prof. Linda Richter, Board Member of the Africa Early Childhood Network, followed by statements from Ms. Etleva Kadilli, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, and Dr. Tajudeen Raji, Deputy Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Prof. Richter also presented the Global and Regional Overview on Early Childhood Development, setting the stage for the presentation of the Africa Country Profiles for ECD by Ms. Juliana Seleti, Regional Coordinator of AfECN. The profiles provide a comprehensive, country-specific snapshot of progress toward the Nurturing Care Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals, serving as a key accountability and planning tool for governments and partners.

Highlighting the critical role of research in shaping action, Prof. Mark Tomlinson, Professor of Maternal and Child Health at Stellenbosch University, presented on “From Science to Action”, emphasizing how evidence must inform policy and practice to strengthen systems that support young children and their caregivers.

A dynamic panel discussion followed under the theme “From Data to Systems Strengthening”. Dr. Lesley Bamford, Acting Chief Director for Child and Maternal Health at the South African Department of Health, shared how data on young children has guided South Africa’s national strategies to improve child survival and development. Mr. Ben Hewitt, Global Lead for the Act For Early Years campaign, spoke about how civil society can leverage the ECD Country Profiles to advocate for increased accountability and financing for early childhood programs.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Etleva Kadilli officially launched the Africa Country Profiles for Early Childhood Development Countdown to 2030, reaffirming UNICEF’s continued partnership with the African Union and regional stakeholders to ensure that every child in Africa has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

“These profiles provide an essential tool for governments to track progress, identify gaps, and align investments toward ensuring that every child in Africa survives, thrives, and achieve their full potential,” said Ms. Kadilli.

The launch marks a significant milestone in advancing Africa’s commitments under the Agenda 2063 and the Africa Health Strategy 2016–2030, reinforcing the continent’s dedication to nurturing human capital from the earliest years of life.

For more information, contact:

Derrick Oduck Ochuot | Strategic Communication Expert | African Union Commission | E-mail: OchuotD@africanunion.org

Gavi Welcomes Renewed Commitments to Health Equity & Security Made at TICAD9

  • Prime Minister of Japan H.E. Shigeru Ishiba announces Japan’s contribution of up to US$ 550 million to Gavi’s next strategic period at TICAD9
  • Gavi and the African Union Commission renew commitment to advance universal health coverage and health security in Africa through immunisation, innovation, and co-created solutions
  • Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi: “We are deeply grateful to our host the Government of Japan for the announcement of their pledge in support of Gavi’s next strategic period. Through our ambitious Gavi Leap agenda we are working hard to ensure country ownership and countries’ priorities are at the heart of strategy and decision making, and I thank the African Union Commission and Japan for their on-going partnership.”

Geneva/Yokohama, 26 August 2025 – Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance welcomed renewed commitments to health equity in Africa made at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), held in Yokohama from 20–22 August 2025, which demonstrated Japan’s strong commitment to co-creating innovative solutions for Africa’s health equity.

Japan announces renewed commitment to Gavi 6.0
At the Opening Session of TICAD9, H.E. Shigeru Ishiba, Prime Minister of Japan announced Japan’s commitment to Gavi, noting: “We will support Africa’s vaccine supply through contributions of up to $550 million over the next five years to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.”

This contribution to Gavi’s next strategic period from 2026 to 2030 (Gavi 6.0), underscores Japan’s unwavering leadership in global health as well as its dedication to advancing vaccine delivery and health equity on the African continent through co-created solutions. It also underscores the importance of health in relation to national and global security. With 80% of Gavi’s investments directed to Africa, Japan’s support will be pivotal in helping Gavi achieve its goal of protecting more children against more diseases, faster than ever before by 2030, when Japan will host the G7 presidency.

Gavi, AUC and Japan partner towards health equity and security
Gavi and the African Union Commission (AUC) also convened a TICAD9 Official Thematic Event titled “Co-creating Africa’s Innovative Solutions on Immunization as a Cornerstone of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.” The event focused on advancing immunisation, scaling up domestic health financing, and building sustainable vaccine manufacturing capacity on the African continent. Building on the Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization (ADI), participants stressed that the centrality of Africa’s leadership in health development was critical to progress and impact – issuing a call for stronger political and financial ownership by African governments, and for multilateral and bilateral partners to meaningfully support these efforts. The co-hosts also agreed to build on the strategic momentum created by Gavi’s African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA), which is backed by a contribution of US$ 30 million from Japan, and collaborate in support of the AU’s vision for regional manufacturing.

“Africa’s purpose is to protect every child, nurture every community and secure the wellbeing of generations to come,” said H.E. Amb. Amma Twum-Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, African Union Commission. “This can be achieved through longstanding partnership and steadfast commitment towards health equity and access to immunisation. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Government of Japan have made clear commitment to such a foundation on Universal Health Coverage.”

Noting the remarkable progress made across the African region – which has successfully raised immunisation coverage to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels despite an increasing birth cohort – partners agreed that continued efforts to reach unimmunised children across the African continent, particularly the 8.3 million “zero-dose” children who have yet to receive a basic vaccine, will be critical. Investing in strengthening country-led health systems and innovative finance approaches such as debt buy-downs will also be important to sustaining immunisation progress and strengthening health security.

“The progress made so far is a testament to steadfast political and financial commitment from countries and donors, who have continued to prioritise immunisation as one of the best investments to be made in health, development and security. We are deeply grateful to our host the Government of Japan for the announcement of their pledge in support of Gavi’s next strategic period,” said Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi. “Through our ambitious Gavi Leap agenda we are working hard to ensure country ownership and countries’ priorities are at the heart of strategy and decision making, and I thank the African Union Commission and Japan for their on-going partnership.”

Since 2000, more than 469 million children have been immunised – with more than 12 million deaths averted – through the strong partnership between Gavi and African governments. Through its innovative co-financing model Gavi focuses on country ownership and self-sufficiency, with countries implementing Gavi programmes contributing record amounts towards their own immunisation programmes. Through steadily increased domestic financing of vaccine programmes combined with Gavi investments in health systems, countries are eventually able to self-finance immunisation. During Gavi’s next strategic period (2026–2030), and as part of a transformative agenda to further place countries in the driver’s seat called the Gavi Leap, the organisation will leverage new ways of working – from partnerships to technologies and innovative financing – to strengthen health systems and improve delivery at the last mile.

All participants emphasised that co-creating innovative financial and technological solutions to build health systems that leave no one behind – and can detect, respond, contain and remain resilient in the face of infectious disease threats – is critical to Africa’s health development as well as global health security. For example, participants highlighted innovations introduced in Africa that could be leveraged to address challenges Japan currently faces, with Gavi serving as a critical connector between partners. The Government of Japan has taken a leading role in promoting universal health coverage (UHC) and human security as the overarching approach for attaining Sustainable Development Goal 3, including as a key Gavi donor and AUC partner.

“I had the opportunity to visit an operation site of Gavi in Ghana last year and realised that support for Africa’s health sector has a potential to improve lives and to drive societal change,” said H.E. Hisayuki Fujii, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Japan. “As the Prime Minister Ishiba announced at the Opening Session of TICAD 9, Japan will contribute up to $550 million to Gavi for the next five years. We are proud to strongly support Gavi in ensuring the success of its next strategic plan.”

High-Level Side Event on Immunization Progress and Renewed Commitment to Universal Immunization in Africa

INVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

What: High-level Side Event under the theme “Reaffirming Africa’s Commitment to Immunization: A Call for Action to Strengthen Health Systems.’

When: Monday, February 16, 2025, from 18:00 to 21:00 EAT

Where: Sheraton Hotel, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Who: Hosted by the Republic of Sierra Leone, the African Union Commission, Africa CDC, Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF

Background:
On the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly, this high-level side event will focus on Africa’s progress in immunization and the way forward. The event aims to renew Africa’s commitment to achieving universal immunization, following the endorsement of the Addis Declaration on Immunization (ADI). This declaration paved the way for accelerated immunization efforts across the continent.

The session will highlight achievements made since the ADI’s inception in 2017, such as improved immunization coverage, increased political will, and enhanced vaccine delivery systems. However, challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on immunization programs, inequities in vaccine access, and barriers to domestic financing still persist. The event will also focus on the importance of strengthening primary health care systems to ensure equitable vaccine access and bolster Africa’s capacity to address health crises.

Objectives of the Event:

  1. Present the findings of the ADI progress report and assess Africa’s immunization coverage improvements.
  2. Renew Africa’s political commitment to immunization by highlighting its importance in improving health systems and reducing child mortality.
  3. Address the barriers hindering immunization, especially amid pandemics and emerging health threats.
  4. Strengthen partnerships for immunization advocacy and call for increased domestic investments in immunization programs.

Expected Outcomes:

  1. A communique urging African leaders to accelerate efforts for universal immunization, including enhanced partnerships and political commitment.
  2. Reaffirmation of commitments to achieve ADI goals, with a focus on expanding vaccine access, addressing vaccine equity, and increasing domestic funding.
  3. A clear call to action for renewed focus on immunization, with heightened awareness among global and regional stakeholders.

Participation at the event:
Attendance for members of the press is by invitation only

Africa Conference on Childcare

INVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

What: Africa Conference on Childcare under the theme “Building Partnerships for Accelerating Action Towards Quality and Inclusive Childcare in Africa

When: Wednesday to Friday, 18–20 June 2025

Where: African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Who: Organized by the African Union Commission’s Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with Africa Early Childhood Network and partners.

Background:
Africa is home to the youngest population in the world, with an estimated 650 million children in 2021 and projections reaching 1 billion by 2055. In light of this demographic trend, the Africa Conference on Childcare seeks to rally key actors and stakeholders to prioritize, invest in, and implement comprehensive childcare systems that promote early childhood development (ECD) across the continent.

Anchored in the aspirations of Agenda 2063, Agenda 2040, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the conference aims to forge strong partnerships, enhance multisectoral collaboration, and consolidate ongoing efforts across African Union Member States to ensure that every African child has access to quality, inclusive, and affordable childcare services.

Objectives of the Event:

  1. Raise awareness and political commitment toward the childcare development agenda across Africa.
  2. Strengthening partnerships among governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector for improved childcare systems.
  3. Advocate for increased and sustainable funding, including domestic resource mobilization, to support childcare initiatives.
  4. Showcase best practices and innovative models from countries that have made strides in childcare development.

Expected Outcomes:

  1. Renewed political and financial commitment toward advancing childcare in Africa.
  2. Enhanced collaboration among key sectors and stakeholders.
  3. Documentation and sharing of successful models and practices in childcare across Africa.
  4. A strong continental call to action for scaling up childcare efforts.

Participation at the event:
Attendance for members of the press is by invitation only. 

Empowering Youth for a Healthier Africa: Pan-African Youth Forum Champions Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights

Investing in youth health and well-being is not just an obligation but a strategic imperative for Africa’s future. By empowering our youth with the knowledge of their sexual and reproductive health rights, we are building a resilient foundation for Agenda 2063,”

Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, Director of the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender, and Youth Division.

The city of Oran came alive with the vibrancy of youth voices as the Pan-African Youth Forum 2024 convened to celebrate African Youth Day. The forum, brought together over  youth leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Africa. A highlight of the event was the side session on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), under the theme “Empowering Youth: Amplifying Awareness of Their Continental Rights to Sexual and Reproductive Health,” emphasizing the role of youth as agents of change for a healthier and equitable Africa.

A Call to Action: Youth Health at the Center

The SRHR side session underscored the urgency of addressing barriers faced by African youth in accessing health services. It highlighted the alarming rates of adolescent pregnancies, gender-based violence, and limited access to contraceptives. In alignment with the African Union’s CARMMA Plus initiative, the session aimed to foster a youth-led movement advocating for health equity and reproductive rights.

Panel discussions brought forward diverse perspectives from youth leaders and health experts, while capacity-building sessions equipped participants with advocacy tools. The event saw the formation of the CARMMA Plus Youth Advocates Network, a continental community dedicated to advancing SRHR initiatives.

Key Outcomes and Recommendations

Youth leaders consolidated policy recommendations to address critical gaps in SRHR, including:

  1. Universal access to youth-friendly health services.
  2. Integrating comprehensive sexuality education into formal curricula.
  3. Eliminating harmful practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation.
  4. Leveraging digital platforms to increase awareness and accessibility of SRHR services.

These recommendations will be presented at the AU Heads of State Summit in January 2025, ensuring the youth voice is integral to shaping Africa’s health agenda.

A Broader Vision for Youth Empowerment

The forum also adopted the Oran Declaration, reaffirming the commitment of African youth to education, employment, and environmental sustainability. Youth leaders called for a decade-long emphasis on education, underscoring its pivotal role in transforming the continent. The declaration will serve as a guiding document for national policies and programs aimed at youth development.

Looking Ahead: Building a Resilient Future

The Pan-African Youth Forum 2024 set a transformative precedent, proving that young Africans are not just beneficiaries but architects of change. The integration of SRHR advocacy into the broader agenda of the forum highlights the intersectionality of youth empowerment, health, and sustainable development.

As the African Union continues to champion initiatives like 1 Million Next Level and CARMMA Plus, the resounding message from Oran is clear: Africa’s youth are ready to lead the charge toward a healthier, more inclusive, and prosperous future.

“The future of Africa lies in the hands of its youth. Together, we will transform the health landscape of our continent, ensuring no one is left behind,” Ms. Alleluia Delphine, CARMMA Plus Senior Programme Officer.

The forum in Oran will remain a beacon of hope and a blueprint for youth-driven solutions in achieving Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.