AFENET’s engagement at the 10th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development

In an active move to broaden its One Health portfolio amidst the growing urgency of climate change, the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) actively engaged in the 10th Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (AFRSD10). Represented by Ms. Esther Butamanya, AFENET showcased its commitment to integrating climate considerations into public health strategies.

Held at the UN Conference Centre in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from April 23rd to 25th, with pre-conference events from the 17th to the 22nd, AFRSD10 focused on reinforcing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Agenda 2063 of the African Union. The theme, “Eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions,” underscored the urgency of addressing intersecting challenges.

Key discussions highlighted the stagnation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) despite progress made by AU Member States towards Agenda 2030. Ethiopia’s Minister of Planning and Development, HE Fitsum Assefa, emphasized the setbacks caused by natural disasters, conflicts, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, stressing the imperative for decisive action.

Prime Minister of Uganda Robinah Nabbanja, urged African countries to transition from passive participants to proactive leaders in global dialogues, citing the continent’s capacity for innovation and problem-solving.

AFENET’s pledge to incorporate climate action into its One Health portifolio underscores the organization’s dedication to addressing the nexus between climate change and public health. Speakers at AFRSD10 recognized the forum as a crucial platform for assessing progress, confronting challenges, and recognizing opportunities in pursuit of their sustainable development agendas.