AFRICA CDC HONORS ZAMBIA’S HEALTH MINISTER SYLVIA MASEBO AS INTERIM CHAIR OF GOVERNING BOARD
The Africa Centres for Disease Control (CDC) has bestowed an honor upon Zambia’s Health Minister Sylvia Masebo, appointing her as the newly appointed interim chairperson for the Governing Board.
Ms. Masebo’s appointment was unanimously approved by Honourable Ministers of Health during a meeting in Kenya on July 12th this year, for an unspecified tenure. The recognition comes as a testament to the Zambian Government’s unwavering commitment to championing health security initiatives within Zambia and beyond.
In a special ceremony held in Lusaka, Africa CDC presented Ms. Masebo with a commemorative apparatus, symbolizing her acceptance of the esteemed role. In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted the significance of the event in enhancing Africa’s capabilities for disease prevention and control, aligning with the new public health order for the continent.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the director general of Africa CDC and his team, who have worked tirelessly to make my nomination possible,” said Ms. Masebo. She also thanked His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, the President of the Republic of Zambia, for his excellent contribution to the health security agenda, both as a global cholera control champion and an Africa national emergency operations center champion.
Africa CDC has pledged its full support and commitment as Ms. Masebo takes on her new responsibilities, driving the Governing Board to new heights. Dr. Lul Riek, the Regional Coordinator for the Southern Africa Regional Collaborating Centres, described Ms. Masebo as dedicated, committed, and inspirational, affirming her suitability for the task.
The appointment of Sylvia Masebo as the interim chair of the Africa CDC Governing Board marks a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to strengthen disease prevention and control measures, underlining Zambia’s dedication to advancing health security across Africa.
