Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda says Malawi stands to gain from priority health issues discussed at the ongoing 72nd Session of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa conference in Togo.

Speaking in an interview from Lome yesterday after being elected first vice-chairperson of the 72nd Session of the WHO Africa Region, she said the health issues would ensure the 47 member States of Africa Region (WHO Afro) have a common approach to addressing public health issues.

Said Chiponda: “This is the most important meeting on public health in Africa bringing together 47 ministers of health in the WHO Afro with the aim of defining health priorities for the next 12 months.

Chiponda: We are defining health priorities

“And the election of Malawi as vice-chairperson is a testament to the trust of Malawi’s leadership in regional/international health arena. For the country at large, it showcases the success of Malawi in the health sector.”

Health rights activist Maziko Matemba described Malawi’s election as an important milestone, saying the development will improve visibility of Malawi health sector.

“This can also be a resource mobilisation advantage as she will be chairing some critical sessions,” he said.

Some of the priority issues discussed were universal health coverage and health security, non-communicable diseases, mental health, tuberculosis and nutrition, health security and emergencies as well as women’s, children’s and adolescent health.

Dr Jane Ruth Ocero Aceng, Uganda’s Minister of Health was elected second vice-chairperson.

The Malawi minister will deputise Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa, Togo’s Minister of Health and the three will hold their positions for one year.

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