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Djibouti (Dawan Africa) — The Republic of Djibouti was elected as the new Chairperson of the Regional Ministerial Steering Committee for East Africa (RESCO) on June 17, 2025, following the third meeting of the body, which focused on coordinating public health policies across East and Central Africa. Tanzania was elected as Vice President during the session.
The meeting, held in Djibouti’s capital, was chaired by Ahmed Robleh Abdilleh, the Minister of Health for Djibouti. It brought together health ministers from across East Africa, including Somalia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji Adam Abubakar, as well as representatives from international organizations such as the African Union (AU), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
RESCO, established to strengthen health cooperation across East Africa, focuses on improving coordination in responding to cross-border health crises, harmonizing public health policies, and building resilient health systems capable of addressing emerging challenges. The committee plays a critical role in shaping health strategies in the region, particularly concerning health risks linked to climate change and the spread of diseases.
Ahmed Robleh Abdilleh, Djibouti’s Minister of Health, emphasized, “We fully recognize the responsibility that comes with this presidency. Djibouti is committed to strengthening health cooperation and advancing our region’s health response to the challenges we face.”
The meeting also focused on key health challenges related to health security, epidemic preparedness, and the need for better integration of national health policies to create a cohesive regional response. Ministers commended the progress made since the previous session and called for the accelerated implementation of prior commitments.
As the new Chair of RESCO, Djibouti will play a leading role in advancing regional health plans in East Africa, taking over from Somalia, which held the position for the past three years.
The East and Central African member states of RESCO include Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Djibouti, Comoros, Eritrea, Madagascar, Mauritania, Seychelles, and Sudan. This international collaboration is vital for the health of East and Central Africans, combining modern technology and sustainable health policies.