WHAT:
Weekly interaction with members of the media to share critical updates on steps taken to implement the joint continental strategy for COVID-19 response; and to also highlight the coordinated efforts of African Union Member States to combat the pandemic in their respective countries.

SPEAKERS:
- Dr John Nkengasong, Director, Africa CDC
- Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa

WHEN: Thursday, 15 October 2020
TIME: 11.00–12.00 pm East Africa Time
WHERE: Online through ZOOM, please register in advance to join the Meeting

Register in advance for this webinar using the below link:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CuX-h8PKThi3RaY-yJBAcg

Live stream: https://livestream.com/africanunion/events/9033858

Background Information

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread to about 215 countries and territories with more than 37 million cases; and claimed over 1million lives globally. Over 1.5million cases have been reported in all countries in Africa, with nearly 38,600 deaths. Africa CDC and World Health Organization (WHO) are working with Member States to ensure an effective response to the outbreak by Member States, including maintaining key public health measures which are helping to slow down the pandemic.

Dr Nkengasong will be joined by Dr Moeti this Thursday to provide updates focusing on key aspects of COVID-19 response activities across Africa as follows:
 Effective actions African countries have taken against COVID-19
 COVID-19 Vaccines Development and Access, and
 The Continental Pathogen Genomics Initiative

Kindly note that the briefings now covers 3 AU working languages (English, French and Portuguese) for interpretation purpose.

Below are basic things members of the media should consider for the briefing.

 Journalists will be allowed to ask questions directly online. If you have a question send your name and the name of your media house to WhatsApp # (+251 945 502 310), the following emails (GwehN@africa-union.org, molalett@africa-union.org) and they will be taken by the moderator.
 Colleagues who cannot ask questions directly online should send their questions to the same number or email addresses.

Journalists are invited to connect and attend the press briefing on Thursday, 15 October 2020, at 11.00 a.m. East Africa Time.

Media inquiries:
Mr Molalet Tsedeke, Tel: 0911-630631; Email: molalett@africa-union.org; Directorate of Information and Communication; AU Commission
Mr Collins Boakye-Agyemang: Tel: + 242 06 614 24 01; Email: boakyeagyemangc@who.int, WHO Media Relations Officer

About the African Union
The African Union spearheads Africa’s development and integration in close collaboration with African Union Member States, the Regional Economic Communities and African citizens. AU Vision: to accelerate progress towards an integrated, prosperous and inclusive Africa, at peace with itself, playing a dynamic role in the continental and global arena, effectively driven by an accountable, efficient and responsive Commission.
Learn more at: http://www.au.int/en

About Africa CDC
Africa CDC is a specialized technical institution of the African Union which supports Member States in their efforts to strengthen health systems and improve surveillance, emergency response, prevention and control of diseases.
Learn more at: http://www.africacdc.org

For further information:
Directorate of Information and Communication | African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org I Website: www.au.int I Addis Ababa | Ethiopia.

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The World Health Organization contributes to a better future for people everywhere. Good health lays the foundation for vibrant and productive communities, stronger economies, safer nations and a better world. As the lead health authority within the United Nations system, our work touches people’s lives around the world every day. In Africa, WHO serves 47 Member States and works with development partners to improve the health and well-being of all people living here. The WHO Regional Office for Africa is located in Brazzaville, Congo. Learn more at www.afro.who.int and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.