WHAT: The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread to almost 200 countries and claimed more than 280,000 lives worldwide. Nearly 68,000 cases have been reported in 53 African countries, with over 2,000 deaths. Africa CDC is supporting African Union Member States in responding to the outbreak. This briefing will provide updated information from Member States and new actions taken by Africa CDC and other partners in respond to the pandemic.

SPEAKER: Dr. John Nkengasong, Director, Africa CDC

WHEN: Thursday, 14 May 2020

TIME: 11.00–12.00 pm East Africa Time

WHERE: Online through Bluejeans, Meeting ID is 335 187 644

Meeting URL
https://bluejeans.com/335187644?src=join_info

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

Background Information
The total number of COVID-19 cases is now over 4 million globally. With several confirmed cases in 53 African countries, Africa CDC is working with Member States to ensure appropriate response to the outbreak in their countries. The Director of Africa CDC will provide critical update on the coordinated efforts by Member States to implement the AU’s joint continental strategy on COVID-19 and highlight support from partners and other countermeasures taken to minimize fatality due to the disease in Africa.

Here are basic things to note about tomorrows 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.

· Journalists 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, 14 May 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

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