Africa CDC and Japan Institute for Health Security Partner to Strengthen Global Health Security

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – March 5, 2026 – The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the Japan Institute for Health Security (JIHS) have formalized a collaboration aimed at bolstering health security, controlling infectious diseases, advancing research, and enhancing public health capacity development across Africa. The partnership was simultaneously inaugurated with a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) signing in Addis Ababa, led by Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, and in Tokyo, by Professor Dr. Norihiro Kokudo, President of JIHS.

Enhancing Pandemic Preparedness and Response

This agreement establishes a framework for increased cooperation in addressing both existing and emerging public health threats, with a strong focus on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Key areas of collaboration include strengthening infectious disease surveillance and early warning systems, expanding laboratory and research capabilities, and coordinating responses to public health emergencies.

Workforce Development and Capacity Building

The partnership will prioritize workforce development through structured training programs, institutional exchanges, and technical collaboration. These initiatives are designed to strengthen public health institutions and build a resilient public health workforce capable of effectively addressing health challenges.

A Collaborative Approach to Global Health Challenges

“Health threats cross borders, and preparedness depends on strong partnerships,” stated Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC. “This cooperation with JIHS will strengthen scientific collaboration, reinforce public health institutions and workforce capacity, and accelerate our ability to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks.”

The collaboration will also embrace a “One Health” approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This will involve addressing zoonotic diseases (diseases that transmit from animals to humans) and antimicrobial resistance, as well as other emerging risks.

JIHS Commitment to International Cooperation

Professor Dr. Norihiro Kokudo, President of JIHS, emphasized the institute’s dedication to international collaboration. “JIHS was established as an integrated national institution combining infectious disease intelligence, research and development, clinical expertise, and international cooperation,” he said. “Through this partnership with Africa CDC, we look forward to expanding joint research, strengthening workforce development, and building practical collaboration that contributes to regional and global health security.”

Alignment with Strategic Goals

This cooperation aligns with Africa CDC’s Strategic Plan (2023–2027) and the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) Agenda. A Joint Action Plan will be developed to outline specific activities, timelines, and implementation mechanisms.

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is the public health agency of the African Union. As an autonomous institution, Africa CDC supports AU Member States to strengthen health systems, improve disease surveillance, and enhance emergency preparedness and response. Follow Africa CDC on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and YouTube.

About JIHS

The Japan Institute for Health Security (JIHS) is Japan’s national institution dedicated to strengthening preparedness and response to infectious diseases and other health threats. Established through the integration of Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) and the National Center for Global Health and Medicine (NCGM), JIHS functions as an integrated science center combining infectious disease intelligence, research and development, clinical capabilities, and international cooperation. Follow JIHS on X and YouTube.

Contact Information

Africa CDC: Margaret Edwin, Director of Communication and Public Information, EdwinM@africacdc.org

JIHS: Kenji Kohno, Director of Public Relations, kohno.k@jihs.go.jp