AFENET, REDISSE/CEEAC team up to strengthen public health capacity in Central Africa using a “One Health approach”
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AFENET
The African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) and REDISSE/CEEAC have entered a partnership aimed at enhancing the capacity of government executives in the Central African sub-region to implement Intermediate Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETP) with a focus on the “One Health” approach.
From February 27 to March 2, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved as mentors from the Republic of Congo (RoC), the Central African Republic (CAR), and the Republic of Chad gathered in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, for an orientation training. This training was designed to equip mentors with the necessary tools and knowledge to lead the first cohort of the Intermediate FETP, slated to commence on March 11, 2024, in Brazzaville.
Led by the FETP Resident Advisor – Dr. Misombo Kalabela Andre and the Program Director – Dr Jean Medard Kankou, supported by a proficient team from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), comprising two mentors, the FETP-I Resident Advisor, and the Central Africa Regional Technical Coordinator – Dr Alain Magazani, the orientation training was a collaborative effort aimed at harnessing collective experience and expertise.
A total of 10 mentors (Seven from RoC, two from CAR, and one from Chad) underwent rigorous training during this period. The diversity in representation ensured a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, enriching the learning experience for all participants.
The orientation and training was not just a platform for skill development; it was also a forum for knowledge sharing and collaboration. Mentors had the opportunity to learn from the experiences of their counterparts from the DRC, gaining insights into best practices and innovative approaches to public health challenges.
As the mentors returned to their respective countries, they carried with them not only the knowledge and skills acquired but also a renewed commitment to advancing public health in the Central African sub-region. The upcoming cohort of the Intermediate FETP holds promise as these trained mentors embark on the noble task of nurturing the next generation of public health leaders.
