A proposed pandemic agreement is much needed, but its form, content, and structure should not perpetuate fragility and disparities across global health systems, particularly in Africa.
The inequities laid bare during the COVID-19 pandemic touched a raw nerve, evidenced by the outcry from the global health community about our flawed global health security frameworks. A global pandemic agreement must put equity at the heart of the prevention, preparation, and response work for the next outbreak. African states are working together to ensure that we are in a position to ensure a strong pandemic response for our communities and for the world.
During the early days of COVID-19, the development and distribution of vaccines saw a haphazard response, undermined by a lack of transparency in data sharing and poor coordination. Vaccine nationalism manifested itself, as some nations hoarded drugs, diagnostics, and vaccines, while other countries were unable to buy the necessary lifesaving equipment. They had to wait for vaccines later in the production line, or vaccines that were close to expiry, which were as we now know, illustrative of inequity and a lack of inclusivity.
About the author
Jean Kaseya
Jean Kaseya, a Congolese medical doctor with advanced degrees in epidemiology and community health, was appointed director-general of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in February 2023. Kaseya brings to this position over 25 years of expertise in the field of public health, having held pivotal roles both at the national and international levels with various organizations from the private sector, philanthropies, and bilateral and multilateral development partners.
