Strengthening Public Health: Graduation of 24th Frontline FETP Cohort in Southern Zambia
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AFENET
On 13 March, 2025, the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) and the Ministry of Health celebrated the graduation of the 24th Cohort of Frontline Field Epidemiology Fellows in Livingstone, Southern Province. This recent cohort of 20 graduates contributes to a total of 481 health workers trained in the Frontline FETP nationwide, with support from partners including the Global Fund, the World Bank, the US CDC, and the Government of the Republic of Zambia.
The significant event was graced by the Director General – ZNPHI, Professor Roma Chilengi; Public Health Specialist – Southern Provincial Health Office (SPHO), Dr. Brian Habasimbi; Director – Workforce Development, Dr. Nyambe Sinyange; Grant Accountant – Global Fund (SPHO), Mr. Christopher Banda, Mentors and Facilitators. Frontline Field Epidemiology Training is among the targeted training programs and skill-building initiatives, being conducted by ZNPHI through Zambia Field Epidemiology Training Program (ZFETP) to ensure the availability of a skilled and responsive public health workforce. ZFETP runs three tiers of the FETP; Frontline (a three months training comprising three workshops and two Field intervals), Intermediate FETP (a nine months training comprising eight workshops and seven field intervals), and the Advanced FETP which is a two-year full time Master’s program. The Zambia Field Epidemiology and Training Program (ZFETP) delivers Frontline FETP trainings across all Zambian provinces with the objective of establishing at least five Field Epidemiologists in each district.
In his remarks, Professor Chilengi recognized the role of frontline staff in strengthening health security, emphasizing that the training program has been a critical journey through which fellows have been equipped with the tools to protect communities and respond to public health challenges with confidence and skill. He extended his deepest gratitude to the Global Fund for their unwavering support in making this training possible. “This cohort is one of ten cohorts planned to be conducted nationwide by Quarter 2 of 2025—an investment that will have a lasting impact on Zambia’s public health landscape”, he stated.
The Director General (ZNPHI) stated that Southern Province is a key player in Zambia’s livestock industry, yet it continued to face persistent threats like anthrax outbreaks. He added that these challenges have far-reaching implications for both public health and the economy, and emphasized that fellows’ expertise in disease surveillance and outbreak response would be crucial in mitigating those risks. He explained that their work would safeguard not only human health but also the livelihoods of thousands who depend on agriculture and tourism. He pointed out that this province is home to Victoria Falls and world-renowned safaris—destinations that welcome visitors from across the globe. “This level of exposure demands strong, proactive public health oversight, you are now the frontline defenders and the disease detectives, ensuring that public health remains a priority in every sector”, he declared.
Prof. Chilengi also acknowledged the mentors and facilitators for their dedication in shaping the Frontline FETP fellows into capable professionals. “Your guidance, expertise, and passion have set the foundation for a healthier future”, he stated.
“To our graduates—this is just the beginning, step forward with purpose, lead with integrity. serve with dedication. Congratulations! go forth and make a difference”, he advised.
