The African Group (AG) of Ambassadors in Geneva successfully concluded a high-level strategic workshop to solidify the continent’s united position ahead of the upcoming resumed session of the IGWG6. The negotiations represent efforts to resolve the most contentious part of the WHO Pandemic Agreement – the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) System. Adopted by the World Health Assembly in May 2025, to prevent a repeat of COVID-era inequities, the WHO Pandemic Agreement is a landmark achievement and legal milestone for global public health. 

Facing a pivotal moment in global health diplomacy, the AG has moved to finalise preparations aimed at safeguarding the continent's interests during the critical final stages in the negotiation of a PABS System.

In opening the workshop, the African Group Coordinator for Health Matters, H.E. Ambassador Ever Mlilo, Permanent Representative of Zimbabwe to the UN in Geneva, underscored the importance of the workshop in providing space to strategise “as a united and fortified African voice in these final stages of the negotiations”.

The AG Ambassadors workshop was preceded by a preparatory workshop of AG expert negotiators. The workshop was thus part of a strategic, two-tiered preparatory process made possible through the generous support of the Global Centre for Health Diplomacy and Inclusion (CeHDI).

The workshop reiterated the African Group position on translating the principle of equity into an operational reality of the PABS System. “It must preserve the foundational integrity of the equity principle by ensuring its concrete enactment.” stated the African Union Permanent Observer, H.E. Dr Girma Amente Nono, during the welcoming remarks.

Participants also expressed appreciation to the Africa CDC for its technical support and guidance throughout the IGWG process.

H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa CDC, issued a video message to the workshop, framing African solidarity as the cornerstone of the ongoing talks. He asserted that a "unified, assertive continental position" is non-negotiable to safeguard Africa’s interests in the resumed IGWG6 session and ensure the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) framework results in "tangible and equitable outcomes" for all Africans.

With the resumed IGWG6 session scheduled to take place from 27 April to 1 May 2026, the AG stands resolute and unified in its mission to protect the health security and sovereignty of the continent.