Dr. Ntuli Kapologwe, Director General of the East, Central, and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC), has urged African nations to take a stronger, united, and strategic role in global health. He made the remarks during the Global Health Diplomacy Workshop held in Lusaka on November 20, 2025.
Addressing delegates, Dr. Kapologwe emphasized that Africa must move from a follower to a leader as the global health landscape undergoes major changes. He called for cooperation among countries in the region to improve health outcomes and strengthen Africa’s influence in international health decisions.
“The time has come for Africa to assert itself and speak with one voice in global health matters,” Dr. Kapologwe said, highlighting the need for bold and coordinated action.
The workshop brought together policymakers, health experts, and diplomats from across the region to discuss strategies for improving health governance and Africa’s role in shaping global health policies.
Dr. Kapologwe stressed that a united African approach is crucial for tackling current and future health challenges, including pandemics, healthcare financing, and access to medical technologies.
