RC75 Opening Ceremony: A moment of national and regional pride

RC75

The 75th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa (RC75) officially opened on 25 August with a high-level ceremony graced by His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, who welcomed delegates and reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to health as a driver of economic development. In his keynote address, President Hichilema highlighted Zambia’s achievements, including allocating 12% of the national budget to health, recruiting 20,000 health workers, and expanding health infrastructure.

Every Step Counts: Lusaka “Walks the Talk” for Healthier Lives

Walk the Talk

In a vibrant display of unity and commitment to healthier lifestyles, the “Walk the Talk: Health for All Challenge” was held on the sidelines of the 75th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, that took place from 25 to 27 August 2025 in Lusaka, Zambia.

The 6-kilometre walk brought together over one thousand participants — including health leaders, policymakers, youth groups, and community members — all stepping forward to promote physical activity and raise awareness about non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Strengthening country-level impact: Dr Janabi meets WHO Zambia team

WCO Group Photo

In the buildup of the RC75, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohamed Yakub Janabi, joined the WHO Zambia Country Office team for a working lunch in Lusaka. The engagement offered a meaningful opportunity to connect, reflect, and align on shared health priorities in Zambia.

Dr Janabi described the lunch as “a valuable opportunity to engage and connect,” and expressed deep appreciation for the team’s dedication to the people of Zambia and their commitment to making a lasting impact.

Driving Health Impact Together: UNICEF WCAR Leadership Engages with WHO Benin

Dr Kouamé Jean Konan, WHO Representative, Mr. Gilles Fagninou, UNICEF Regional Director for West and Central Africa, and Mr. Ousmane Niang, UNICEF Representative in Benin.
On 21 August 2025, the WHO Country Office in Benin had the privilege of receiving Mr. Gilles Fagninou, UNICEF Regional Director for West and Central Africa, and Mr. Ousmane Niang, UNICEF Representative in Benin. This high-level visit highlighted the exemplary collaboration between WHO and UNICEF at both regional and national levels.