WHO Focuses on Health Innovation and Emergency Response in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) African region is navigating a period of strategic reorientation following disruptions to the global public health ecosystem in 2025. Current priorities include scaling up health innovations, strengthening health systems, and responding to ongoing health crises like Ebola outbreaks and cholera surges.

Ebola Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

In September 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) declared an outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Kasai Province. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the Ebola Zaire virus, the cause of the illness and fatalities [WHO Regional Office for Africa].

Cholera Surge in Southern Africa

Southern Africa is currently facing a significant increase in cholera cases, with a more than sevenfold rise in cases during the first six weeks of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. This surge is attributed to severe flooding caused by cyclones, damage to infrastructure, and inadequate water and sanitation for displaced populations [WHO Regional Office for Africa Press Release].

Strengthening Regional Collaboration

The WHO’s Regional Office for Africa (AFRO) and the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration and improve health outcomes across the East, Central, and Southern African region [WHO Regional Office for Africa Press Release]. This partnership aims to build more resilient health systems.

Progress in Health Innovation

In August 2025, the WHO AFRO released a progress report on the implementation of its strategy for scaling up health innovations in the African region. The report was noted by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA) [WHO Regional Committee for Africa Progress Report].

Looking Ahead

The WHO African region continues to adapt to evolving health challenges and opportunities. Focus remains on strengthening health systems, fostering innovation, and ensuring effective emergency response capabilities to protect the health and well-being of the population.