By: Van Soul Addey
World Health Organization
(WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Janabi, has called for
equitable partnerships between Africa and Europe to strengthen countries’
ability to set their own health priorities and respond effectively to emerging
health threats.
Speaking at the 2026 World
Health Summit (WHS2026), Janabi said cooperation should be grounded in mutual
accountability and respect for African leadership.
He stressed that moving
“from reaction to resilience” requires sustained investment in national
institutions capable of recognising health threats early, responding
effectively and protecting everyday healthcare.
Janabi’s remarks highlighted
the importance of strengthening national health systems so countries can better
prepare for and manage public health challenges.
He also emphasised that
Africa-Europe partnerships should enable countries to determine their
priorities and deliver on them, rather than rely solely on responses after
health threats emerge.
