WHO AFRO establishes Expert Group to boost health security

CONGO— The World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Office for Africa (AFRO) has established the Emergency Preparedness & Response Technical Advisory Group (EPR-TAG) as a critical initiative to strengthen health security throughout the African region.

This independent body serves as the principal advisory group to WHO AFRO, providing strategic guidance on all aspects of public health emergency preparedness and response.

The EPR Technical Advisory Group, comprised of 16 esteemed experts from diverse fields including epidemiology, public health, global health, and more, plays a pivotal role in supporting WHO African Member States to strengthen health security amidst frequent health emergencies.

 Annually, the region experiences over 100 health emergencies, disrupting economies and straining already fragile health systems.

With climate change and conflicts exacerbating more than half of these emergencies, the looming threat of future pandemics is undeniable.

Led by Dr. Deo Nshimirimana, a distinguished immunization expert, and supported by Dr. Rebecca Martin, a seasoned health security and emergency response leader, the EPR-TAG advises WHO AFRO on critical issues.

These include assessing regional infectious disease contexts, conducting horizon scanning for emerging threats, and guiding preparedness, response, and recovery strategies.

They aim to enhance regional health security initiatives and empower countries in emergency response decision-making.

Commenting on this initiative,  Dr. Nshimirimana expressed confidence in the EPR-TAG’s collective expertise, foreseeing a significant contribution to Africa’s preparedness and response capabilities.

For her part,  Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized that EPR-TAG fortifies regional capacities to handle public health crises collaboratively with partners.

Dr. Moeti reiterated WHO AFRO’s commitment to building a resilient African Region capable of tackling any health challenge with the group’s diverse expertise and independent perspective.

The group’s inaugural meeting in Saly, Senegal, from 16 to 17 July 2024, marks a historic moment in their journey towards safeguarding health security across Africa.