Who Afro Regional Emergency Hub: A Beacon of Hope for Stronger Emergency Response

Oslo Thursday September 28, 2023 In a groundbreaking move, Kenya has allocated 30 acres of land and $5million to support the establishment of the @WHOAFRO Regional Emergency Hub. This initiative, under the Operations Support and Logistics (OSL) pillar, is set to bridge a critical gap in public health emergencies. Currently, WHO-AFRO faces the daunting task of managing over 142 ongoing emergencies, including disease outbreaks and humanitarian crises, cementing its status as the global epicenter for public health challenges.

Recognizing the importance of resilient health systems, countries must prioritize healthcare quality even amidst emergencies. Historically, operations, supply chain management, and logistics have been underfunded, despite constituting over 70% of emergency response efforts.

The establishment of this hub in Kenya promises not only to enhance regional coordination but also to become a center of excellence for emergency operations. Principal Secretary State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni and Mr. Adama Thiam, Head of Operations & Logistics Management at WHO-AFRO had a productive meeting with Norwegian officials, led by Ambassador for Global Health at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, John-Arne Rottingen, advancing this critical endeavor. 

Ms. Muthoni noted that the hub holds the promise of a brighter future for emergency response, not only in Kenya but also across the region.