British News Agency

Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Ambassador Dr. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, speaking at the Presidential Dialogue on High-Threat Pathogens held in New York on September 25, 2026, emphasized the importance of cooperation in strengthening health security in Africa and improving capacity to respond to disease outbreaks.

Kombo said they support cross-border cooperation, early warning systems and the responsible use of artificial intelligence, adding that these efforts would help African countries detect, monitor and respond effectively to disease threats in a timely manner.

World Health Organization Regional Director for Africa Prof. Mohamed Janabi said that borders between countries do not eliminate health risks and stressed the need to develop sustainable systems that connect countries, institutions and communities, particularly in border areas.

At the meeting held as part of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, the New York Call to Action was adopted to strengthen Africa's cross-border preparedness capacity through cooperation, data sharing and innovative health technologies.