Zambia Hosts Regional Meeting to Strengthen Cross-Border Health Security
The Government of Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to regional health security as it hosts the 2nd Southern Africa Regional Cross-Border Surveillance Meeting from 23rd to 27th March 2026.
Bringing together Member States, technical experts, and key international partners, the meeting serves as a critical platform to strengthen collaboration and enhance systems that protect communities across borders. At the heart of the discussions is the urgent need for unified action in responding to public health threats that transcend national boundaries.
Speaking during the opening, Hon. Dr. Alex Katakwe, Minister of Health, emphasized that recent outbreaks, including Mpox, cholera, and COVID-19, have exposed the realities of an interconnected region where diseases can spread rapidly if systems are not aligned.
He highlighted a notable case in 2025, where Zambia recorded its first Mpox infection involving a traveler who crossed multiple borders in a single day without detection. A similar trend was observed in Zimbabwe, further underscoring the need for stronger surveillance systems and coordinated regional responses.
“This is a wake-up call,” he noted. “Viruses are moving faster than our systems, and we must act collectively to strengthen our defenses.”
The meeting marks a significant step toward operationalizing the Regional Integrated Surveillance and Laboratory Network (RISLNET), an initiative aimed at improving real-time data sharing, integrating laboratory systems, and building rapid response capacity across countries.
Participants are expected to focus on:
– Strengthening cross-border coordination frameworks
– Enhancing real-time, transparent data sharing
– Investing in public health systems at points of entry
– Aligning national preparedness plans with regional priorities
Zambia’s leadership also emphasized the importance of moving beyond dialogue to practical implementation, calling for sustained investment, accountability, and solidarity among Member States.
Adding to the discussions, Zambia National Public Health Institute Director General, Professor Roma Chilengi, stressed that effective response depends on timely information, institutionalized collaboration, and empowered communities. He highlighted the need to invest in workforce capacity and strengthen risk communication as key pillars of preparedness.
The meeting, organized in collaboration with Africa CDC and key partners, is expected to yield actionable solutions that will strengthen regional networks and improve the ability to detect and respond to health threats swiftly.
As the region faces evolving public health challenges; including climate-related health risks, this gathering represents a decisive moment to reinforce cooperation and protect lives.
Zambia remains fully committed to working with regional and international partners to ensure that every border becomes a stronghold for health security.
Georgia Mutale Chimombo
Principle Public Relations Officer/ Spokesperson
Credit: Milika Chirwa/ Namukale
