By Nelson Manneh
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has launched the Africa Public Health Podcast, a platform aimed at amplifying African voices in public health, countering misinformation, and strengthening the continent’s resilience against evolving health challenges.
Africa CDC, an autonomous public health agency of the African Union, supports member states in health system strengthening, disease surveillance, emergency response, and disease control.
“As the continent navigates a landscape of health threats—ranging from pandemics and climate-related risks to non-communicable diseases—Africa CDC remains steadfast in its mission to empower through science-driven, accessible, and timely information,” said Margaret Muigai-Edwin, Director of Communication and Public Information at Africa CDC.
The Africa Public Health Podcast is designed to ignite critical conversations, foster innovation, and reshape how public health stories are told across the continent.
“At Africa CDC, we believe in the power of storytelling to inspire action and trust,” Ms. Muigai-Edwin said. “The podcast gives Africa its own microphone, where experts, frontline workers, and communities can shape the narrative of public health.”
According to Africa CDC, the podcast will feature expert interviews, frontline experiences, and community-led solutions, highlighting the continent’s unique approaches to health security and innovation.
Episodes will explore key themes such as:
- Pathogen genomics
- Pandemic preparedness
- Digital health
- Community engagement
- Science and innovation
- Capacity building and training to strengthen Africa’s health systems
The premiere episode, “The Power of Genomics in Disease Control,” features Dr. Sofonias Tessema, Program Lead for Pathogen Genomics at Africa CDC, in conversation with host Andisiwe Michelle May. The discussion explores how genomic technology is transforming outbreak detection across Africa, from expanding sequencing capacity in over 40 countries to applying artificial intelligence (AI) in tracking diseases such as malaria, Ebola, and cholera.
The episode provides a compelling look at Africa-led innovation in disease surveillance and public health.
“Our goal is to demystify complex public health issues and make them relatable to everyday Africans,” Ms. Muigai-Edwin said. “This podcast is part of our broader commitment to building a well-informed and health-empowered continent.”
