African countries have launched a continental blueprint to fight cholera, marking a decisive step toward ending one of the region’s most stubborn health crises.
The Africa Continental Cholera Outbreak Response Plan was officially introduced on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, in Lusaka, Zambia, during the 75th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa.
The new framework provides African nations with practical tools and clear guidance to mount rapid, coordinated, and effective responses to cholera outbreaks. Its core objective is to save lives and stop the disease from spreading across communities.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema presided over the launch, where he urged fellow leaders to take direct responsibility for the fight against the waterborne disease. He emphasized that strong political will and leadership at the highest level are crucial.
“This moment marks a turning point in Africa’s fight against a disease that has robbed communities not just of health, but of dignity and opportunity,” President Hichilema stated.
He observed that the absence of a unified continental strategy in the past often resulted in fragmented, delayed, or weak responses, which allowed cholera outbreaks to escalate.
The Zambian leader appealed to countries to demonstrate genuine commitment by first investing their own domestic resources before turning to external partners for assistance. He argued that such prioritization reflects seriousness in addressing the challenge.
President Hichilema also highlighted the need for stronger cooperation between health ministries and agencies responsible for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), stressing that the disease cannot be fought in isolation.
“Cholera is primarily a water and sanitation challenge,” he noted, drawing attention to the root causes that fuel recurring outbreaks.
The urgency of the plan is underscored by the statistics: in 2024 alone, cholera was reported in 33 African countries, with 804,721 infections and 5,805 deaths, reflecting the devastating scale of the epidemic.
The new response plan promotes preparedness, early detection, and cross-sector collaboration, setting the stage for a more united and proactive fight against cholera.
By integrating leadership, accountability, and improved WASH services, the strategy signals a new chapter in Africa’s determination to build resilient health systems and protect millions of lives from preventable disease.
