Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, announced that measures taken against HIV, malaria, and fever in Africa have not succeeded in fully stabilizing the health situation. Ghebreyesus stated at the opening of the 75th session of the WHO Regional Office for Africa: “As you know, Africa faces many health challenges: maternal and child mortality rates remain high, progress in combating malaria, HIV, and fever has slowed, and there has even been regression in some places. At the same time, there is an increase in non-communicable diseases and recorded mental illnesses.” Despite the unstable situation, WHO expanded its activities last year. The African office handled 160 emergencies, distributed malaria vaccines in 19 countries, and funded health activities in 80% of African countries. Additionally, millions of children received vaccinations and nutrition. The 75th session of the WHO Regional Office for Africa opened on August 25 in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital.

Over three days, key health topics and new initiatives for the African continent will be discussed and developed.