Africa CDC Unveils New Platform to Tackle Health Emergencies Faster

The Africa CDC has launched a new platform to strengthen the continent’s response to health emergencies. The Integrated Management System for Surveillance and Response, or IMST, was officially introduced on Saturday. It represents a major step forward in improving Africa’s public health preparedness. The IMST is designed as a unified operational platform. It aims to boost Africa’s ability to prepare for, coordinate, and respond to public health threats. The system operates under the principles of one team, one plan, and one budget.

It brings together experts from different fields to enhance outbreak response. The platform will initially support Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and neighbouring at-risk countries. Africa CDC, the World Health Organization, and African Union member states jointly developed the system to ensure faster, more coordinated, and country-led action. The launch of IMST strengthens regional preparedness and cross-border collaboration. It reinforces Africa’s health security by improving coordination among countries. The system is now active and ready to assist in managing future public health emergencies.