Regional Health Security Framework Proposed by African Economic Communities

Five Regional Economic Communities (RECs) adopted recommendations in Lusaka, Zambia, to enhance cross-border disease surveillance and expand regional manufacturing capacity. The proposals emphasize sustained health security investments beyond current project funding, targeting improved emergency preparedness and response.

The RECs recommended joint funding proposals and coordinated engagement with technical partners, development agencies, philanthropists, and private investors to finance regional health product manufacturing. This approach aims to address shortages of essential medical supplies during public health emergencies while strengthening local production capabilities.

To prevent resource duplication, the blocs urged harmonized investment strategies across countries, emphasizing shared technical expertise, training institutions, and regional reference laboratories. A joint action framework with clear responsibilities, timelines, and performance indicators would guide implementation.

The African Medicines Agency and regional blocs will strengthen regulatory cooperation to support national authorities and promote cross-regional assessments. Africa CDC and RECs also plan to identify priority medical products for emergencies and coordinate procurement to improve market predictability for local manufacturers.

The recommendations include a One Health approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health through joint risk assessments and early-warning systems to enhance coordinated responses to emerging threats.