By Ayomide Otitoju
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the African Union (AU) Commission have reaffirmed their strategic alliance with the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the sidelines of the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
The updated agreement strengthens joint efforts to promote health security, universal health coverage, and sustainable development across Africa, amid growing financial challenges facing the global health sector.
Signed by Her Excellency Ambassador Amma Adomaa Twum-Amoah, AU Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, on behalf of AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, the MoU deepens coordination between both institutions and underscores Africa’s commitment to collective health action and regional resilience.
“This agreement marks a new chapter in AU–WHO cooperation,” said Twum-Amoah. “By working more closely together, we can better meet the health needs of our populations and ensure that no one is left behind. The AU values WHO’s global leadership and remains committed to health sovereignty, not just survival.”
The renewed pact builds on the foundation of a 2019 agreement and will enhance collaboration across AU departments while aligning WHO support with Africa’s health priorities. It places the AU’s Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development at the forefront of the continent’s health policy execution.
Dr. Tedros emphasized the urgency and impact of the strengthened partnership.
“This comes at a critical time, as reduced bilateral aid threatens the health of millions,” he stated. “Together, we aim to deliver real results, supporting African countries in transitioning from aid dependency to sustainable health systems.”
The MoU reaffirms WHO’s technical and normative leadership and its commitment to supporting the AU in achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals.
