The African continent carries a disproportionately high share of the global infectious disease burden. The extraordinary scientific progress made during the COVID-19 pandemic gives hope in addressing a range of life-threatening infectious diseases. This session shall offer an opportunity to consolidate the lessons learned from current and past pandemics as well as explore cross-border collaboration and capacity building to further enhance readiness on a continental level.

The challenge of optimizing surgical care remains a major public health issue, especially in resource-poor settings where emergency surgical conditions meet unpreparedness due to low health savings and high out-of-pocket medical expenditures. Bridging the gap between point-of-care surgical necessities and limitations in access requires concerted action between clinicians, communities, and other stakeholders. This session will explore realities on the ground and propose solutions to improve access to quality surgical care.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the number one cause of death globally with up to 80% of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Limited human and financial resources further complicate the task of mounting an effective shield against CVD. This session will discuss innovative, groundbreaking models for the fight against CVD.

Africa’s cancer burden is on the rise, and the significant female gender susceptibility is a major clarion call for all stakeholders. This gender-sensitive session will discuss trends in cancer epidemiology, novel therapeutic options, and prospects for modern holistic cancer care in Africa.

Rapid advancement in technology and the advent of big data and artificial intelligence are taking the health sector by storm, albeit with significant regional disparities. Gains made in the African continent alongside challenges and opportunities will be discussed during this session.