Africa CDC secures historic Pandemic Fund accreditation as direct implementing entity

ETHIOPIA—The Governing Board of the Pandemic Fund has approved the accreditation of the Africa CDC as an Implementing Entity, marking a major shift in how the institution will access and manage global health financing.

This decision follows a recommendation from the Pandemic Fund’s Accreditation Panel and positions the Africa CDC among a select group of institutions authorised to directly receive, manage, and deploy Pandemic Fund resources.

It also makes the Africa CDC the first African Union institution and the first continental public health agency globally to achieve this accreditation, and only the second African institution, after the African Development Bank, to hold the status.

Strengthened governance and institutional reforms

The accreditation follows a rigorous assessment of Africa CDC’s governance systems, fiduciary controls, technical capacity, environmental safeguards, and institutional readiness to deliver large-scale programmes.

It reflects reforms implemented since 2023 under Director General Dr Jean Kaseya through the “New Deal for Africa CDC” agenda, which focuses on strengthening transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency.

These reforms have improved financial management systems, internal controls, budget execution, risk management, and compliance structures across the organisation.

Operational readiness and financing access

Over the past three years, Africa CDC has strengthened its institutional foundations to manage international financing, including enhanced oversight mechanisms and expanded audit and compliance functions.

The accreditation confirms that Africa CDC now meets international fiduciary standards required to administer pooled funds and implement projects in line with global best practices.

It also grants Africa CDC authority to directly receive and deploy resources in support of African Union Member States for pandemic preparedness and response.

Leadership response and strategic direction

Dr Jean Kaseya described the accreditation as a historic milestone that strengthens Africa CDC’s credibility and reinforces the continent’s ability to lead its own health security agenda.

 He said it reflects confidence in the institution’s governance, fiduciary systems, technical excellence, and accountability, while also placing greater responsibility onthe Africaa CDC to deliver results.

This development comes at a time when Africa is facing recurring outbreaks, making timely access to financing critical for preparedness and rapid response.

Continental health security implications

The decision aligns with the African Union’s broader goal of strengthening continental institutions capable of mobilising and managing resources for health priorities.

 It also reinforces Africa CDC’s role in supporting Member States to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats across the continent.

Recent discussions among global health partners have highlighted continued emphasis on strengthening regional preparedness systems and improving financing mechanisms for outbreak response.