Africa’s Health Future in Jeopardy? Shocking New Deal Could Change Everything!

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 18 February 2026 – In a significant step toward enhancing health security across the continent, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and FHI 360 have formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to bolster collaboration in crucial areas such as health security, workforce development, and the establishment of resilient public health systems throughout Africa.

This MoU is more than just a symbolic gesture; it lays out a structured framework for cooperation that aligns with the Africa CDC Strategic Plan (2023–2027), the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) Agenda, and the Lusaka Agenda. The initiative reflects a mutual commitment to developing sustainable, locally driven health systems capable of effectively preparing for public health challenges.

Under this partnership, both organizations will collaborate to enhance various critical areas including surveillance systems, epidemic intelligence, laboratory networks, and health workforce capacity. Additionally, there will be a focus on improving emergency preparedness and response capabilities. The collaboration also seeks to support digital transformation and institutional capacity-building, ensuring that health systems are both sustainable and nationally owned.

“Strengthening Africa’s health security demands partnerships built on mutual accountability and results,” said H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC. “This MoU with FHI 360 strengthens our commitment to support African Union Member States build resilient, self-reliant systems that can prevent, detect and respond to public health threats, while accelerating national ownership and sustainable financing for preparedness. It advances our broader vision of health sovereignty across the continent.”

FHI 360 is a global nonprofit organization with a footprint in over 50 countries, bringing decades of expertise in infectious disease control, surveillance systems, and laboratory strengthening. This partnership signifies a shared commitment to assisting African Union Member States in enhancing integrated, efficient, and sustainable public health frameworks.

“For more than five decades, FHI 360 has worked shoulder to shoulder with governments and civil society in countries across Africa to respond to health threats and promote strong and resilient health systems,” said Dr. Tessie San Martin, CEO of FHI 360. “We share the Africa CDC’s vision of a safer, healthier, and prosperous Africa. Strengthening national capabilities to detect and respond to public health emergencies is essential for fulfilling this vision.”

The collaboration is also timely as it aligns with evolving global health security frameworks. This includes a shift towards country-led, government-to-government engagement, integrated data systems, and performance-linked financing models designed to enhance accountability and sustainability in public health initiatives.

By formalizing this partnership, Africa CDC and FHI 360 are reaffirming their commitment to expanding institutional capacity and promoting innovation. This cooperation is expected to play a vital role in advancing health security, economic resilience, and fostering self-reliance across the continent.

About Africa CDC
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) serves as the public health agency for the African Union. It is dedicated to supporting AU Member States in strengthening their health systems, improving disease surveillance, and enhancing emergency preparedness and response capabilities. For more information, visit: http://www.africacdc.org.

About FHI 360
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization committed to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships so that people everywhere can access the opportunities they need to lead full, healthy lives. With over 2,000 experts working across more than 50 countries, FHI 360 focuses on various aspects of global health. Visit: fhi360.org/technical-areas/health/ for more information.

Media Contact
Margaret Edwin
Director of Communication and Public Information
[email protected]

For FHI 360
Christy Delafield
Director of External Communications
[email protected]