The government of Zambia has called on African Heads of State, health ministers, and leading experts in science and public health to take decisive action in implementing policies aimed at improving public health across Africa. The call was made by the Acting President of Zambia, Mrs. Mutale Nalumango, at the closing ceremony of the third International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA), held in Lusaka, Zambia, on Thursday.

Addressing participants, Nalumango emphasized the importance of turning the resolutions made during the conference into concrete actions that will provide solutions to the continent’s numerous health challenges. She highlighted the need for innovation, collaboration, and policy change to tackle both current and emerging health issues on the continent.

“After sitting here, I am saying indeed, that so much has been learned and shared, but for me, the focus is on the implementation of our decisions. We want solutions,” Nalumango stated, urging leaders to ensure that the discussions lead to practical health reforms.

Acknowledging the diverse health issues facing Africa, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and re-emerging health threats, Nalumango stressed the potential for positive change through the conference’s discussions. She encouraged participants to share the insights gained at the conference with colleagues who were not in attendance and to foster strong partnerships and transformative initiatives for the future of public health in Africa.

She added, “Though our public health challenges are many and diverse, we remain hopeful that there is an opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and change.”

Zambia’s Minister of Health, Sylvia Masebo, also spoke at the event, highlighting the need for stronger, resilient public health systems on the continent. She underscored the importance of preparing for health shocks, particularly those arising from climate change, which she identified as a growing threat to public health.

Masebo said, “The public health system should be built to withstand all public health shocks. We are challenged to respond to disease threats arising from climate change challenges, as this is the next biggest challenge facing humanity.”

The third CPHIA, held from November 27-30, 2023, in Lusaka, drew over 5,100 participants, including African Heads of State, health ministers, scientists, researchers, and innovators from more than 90 countries. With a total of 45 sessions and 97 in-person side events, this year’s edition of the conference saw the highest attendance since its inception in 2021.

The theme of the conference, Breaking Barriers: Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Architecture, focused on finding solutions to health challenges and positioning the continent for greater resilience in global health initiatives.