Online Reporter
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke in GENEVA, Switzerland
THE 78th session of the World Health Assembly (WHA78) kicked off here yesterday, bringing together Ministers of Health, public health leaders and global stakeholders to deliberate on urgent health challenges facing the world.
The assembly, running under the theme; “One World for Health”, runs until the end of May and is expected to among other issues, conclude with the adoption of a landmark Global Pandemic Agreement.
Speaking on the sidelines of the opening ceremony yesterday, Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora reiterated Zimbabwe’s commitment to supporting the global health agenda and strengthening its own health systems in line with international best practices.
“This year’s assembly is very critical as it focuses on global solidarity around health, especially in the context of pandemic preparedness,” said Dr Mombeshora.
“We are discussing a new pandemic agreement that has been under negotiation for several years. It is the first of its kind and will guide countries on cooperation and access to crucial information in future health emergencies.”
Dr Mombeshora also revealed that Zimbabwe would be holding meetings with key global health partners such as the Global Fund and GAVI to secure continued support for the country’s health sector.
“Our meetings will help us understand where we stand and how we can move forward in the face of declining donor funding, especially from some European countries and the United States,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s Public Health Advisor to the President, Dr Agnes Mahomva, described the Assembly as a timely platform for aligning national health strategies with global developments.
“We are extremely happy to participate in WHA78. Many of the areas being covered are in line with Zimbabwe’s efforts,” he said.
“We are finalising our One Health Strategy, which promotes a multi-sectoral approach, and the new pandemic agreement offers a framework that complements our domestic efforts.”
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, said this year’s assembly was important.
“This year is special. Member states are considering the adoption of the WHO Framework Agreement on Pandemic Preparedness — a milestone achieved after intense negotiations,” Dr Ghebreyesus said.
