The East African Community (EAC) has launched its first Regional Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response Policy Framework, aimed at strengthening collective action against public health emergencies across the bloc’s eight Partner States.
Approved by the EAC Sectoral Council of Ministers of Health in May 2025, the framework provides a harmonised approach to disease surveillance, early warning and response, with a focus on protecting vulnerable populations.
The policy adopts a One Health approach, recognising the link between human, animal and environmental health, and brings together sectors such as agriculture, tourism and climate change in pandemic preparedness planning.
EAC Deputy Secretary General Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth said recent outbreaks including COVID-19, Ebola, Marburg, cholera and Mpox highlighted the need for a coordinated, whole-of-government response. He stressed that regional cooperation would be key to effective implementation.
The framework also addresses gaps in surveillance, financing and co-ordination, while leveraging digital health, pooled procurement and regional pharmaceutical manufacturing to improve early detection and response.
The EAC has called on governments, partners and stakeholders to support implementation to strengthen the region’s ability to prevent and respond to future pandemics.
–ChannelAfrica/EAC–
