A delegation from the African Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), affiliated with the African Union, concluded a five-day official visit to Sudan. The visit aimed to discuss ways to enhance health cooperation and support the national health system with the Federal Ministry of Health. The delegation met with Federal Health Minister Professor Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim and Ministry officials to review the current health situation and the ministry's strategic plans until 2030.
The Africa CDC delegation also conducted field visits to several health institutions, including the Public Health Laboratory "Estak" and the cold chain, to assess the actual damage and needs of the health sector in light of the war repercussions. Both sides emphasized the importance of enhancing regional health cooperation, exchanging expertise, and building national capacities to improve the health system's response to epidemics.
Federal Health Minister Professor Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim expressed appreciation for the support provided by Africa CDC, stressing the importance of directing it according to the ministry's priorities and health sector needs. The Africa CDC delegation expressed its readiness to provide technical and logistical support to enhance the national health system's preparedness.
Deputy Federal Health Minister Dr. Ali Babaker Sid Ahmed described the visit as important, especially since it came after a four-year hiatus. He noted that the delegation observed firsthand the damage to health institutions caused by the war. The meetings resulted in recommendations to support the health system and an invitation for Sudan to participate in an upcoming meeting in Addis Ababa.
Dr. Ali Babaker Sid Ahmed confirmed that the ministry will continue to coordinate with regional and international partners to implement the national strategy until 2030. The Africa CDC delegation praised the Sudanese medical cadres and the role of Sudanese women in the health sector.
The head of the Africa CDC delegation expressed his satisfaction with the visit, highlighting the needs of the health sector and praising the efforts of the Ministry of Health in continuing to provide services despite difficult circumstances. Both sides agreed on practical steps for cooperation, including continued communication and coordination.
The cooperation between Sudan and Africa CDC aims to improve the health system's preparedness and response to epidemics. Key aspects of this cooperation include supporting the health sector, conducting regular assessments of the health situation, and defining partner roles to ensure more effective coordination and improved quality of health services.
Key points
- The Africa CDC delegation's visit to Sudan marks a significant step in reviving cooperation between the two parties after a four-year absence.
- The visit aimed to enhance health cooperation, support the national health system, and address the health sector's needs in light of the war repercussions.
- Both sides agreed on practical steps for cooperation, including continued communication, coordination, and regular assessments of the health situation.
