AfOHNet’s footprint at the 8th World One Health Congress

AfOHNet, in conjunction with University of Pretoria, recently (20-23 September 2024) successfully hosted the 8th World One Health Congress (WOHC) In Cape Town, South Africa. The Congress which was being hosted in Africa for the first time, had a total of 400 speakers from 87 countries across 70 sessions, 600 Poster presentations, and more than 18 panel discussions on various topics of One Health interest.

The aim of the congress was to address all cross-sectional and transdisciplinary aspects of the One Health paradigm, integrating human, animal and environmental health. There were parallel tracks on One Health science, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the Science/Policy interface (SPI). A unique feature of the congress was the large number of young scientists, mostly African, who were represented and presented at the congress. The importance of this cannot be overemphasised as the young scientists of today are the ones who will anchor One Health science and innovation in the future.

AfOHNet Steering committee members in attendance held a number of meetings with potential collaborators and partners, both scientific and financial. AfOHNet is proud to have been associated with the 8th WOHC and looks forward to the next congress to be held in Europe. We look forward to more active participation in subsequent congresses by AfOHNet and its members.