Africa CDC and Ethiopia Launch CPHIA 2026 to Strengthen Africa’s Health Security and Sovereignty
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia have officially announced the Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) 2026. This significant event, set to take place in Addis Ababa from November 23 to 27, 2026, aims to be the continent’s premier gathering focused on public health.
A Commitment to Health Resilience
H.E. Ambassador Hadera Abera, State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, emphasized that the launch of CPHIA 2026 reflects a commitment to fostering a healthier and more resilient Africa. He noted that the conference aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, aiming to transition the continent from dependency to self-reliance, vulnerability to resilience, and fragmentation to coordinated action.
The conference is expected to attract a diverse group of participants, including government officials, scientists, policymakers, health professionals, and various partners. Together, they will discuss and develop practical solutions to advance Africa’s health transformation and shape the future of public health across the continent.
Conference Theme and Objectives
CPHIA 2026 will operate under the theme “Africa’s Health Security and Sovereignty: Transformation from health dependency and vulnerability to ownership and resilience.” This theme underscores the conference’s goal of providing a strategic platform to promote Africa-led solutions, enhance resilient health systems, and accelerate the implementation of the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty agenda.
Dr. Raj Tajudeen, Acting Deputy Director General of Africa CDC, highlighted the importance of this platform for influencing evidence-based policy. He stated that while the inaugural CPHIA in December 2021 attracted 2,500 participants, the upcoming event aims to engage 30,000 attendees.
Alignment with Africa’s Health Security Agenda
CPHIA 2026 is closely aligned with the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) agenda, which was recently adopted during the 39th ordinary session of the African Union Assembly. This agenda builds upon the commitments outlined in the Durban Promise, which emphasizes mobilizing Africa’s resources and innovation for health sovereignty, enhancing governance and accountability, and reinvesting in primary health care and community systems.
The conference serves as a vital opportunity for African stakeholders to engage in open dialogue on pressing health issues, share scientific advancements, and identify actionable solutions that can drive positive change across the continent.
Ethiopia’s Role as a Diplomatic Hub
Hosting CPHIA 2026 in Addis Ababa reinforces Ethiopia’s status as a key diplomatic center, home to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and the African Union, along with its various agencies, including Africa CDC. The event is expected to further solidify Ethiopia’s role in facilitating discussions on public health and fostering regional cooperation.
Ambassador Hadera expressed pride in partnering with Africa CDC for this significant gathering. Dr. Tajudeen reiterated the commitment to work closely with Ethiopian authorities to ensure the successful execution of CPHIA 2026.
For more information, visit the Africa CDC website.
Media Contacts
Margaret Edwin
Director of Communication and Public Information
Africa CDC
EdwinM@africacdc.org
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About Africa CDC
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is a public health agency of the African Union. It operates autonomously to support member states in strengthening their health systems, improving disease surveillance, and enhancing emergency response and disease control efforts. Learn more at the Africa CDC website.
Published on 2026-05-10 15:53:00 • By the Editorial Desk
