Partnerships for COVID-19 in Africa: Testing Tracking and Treating Report

Introduction to Discussion

We have not had a better opportunity in Africa before now to cement our efforts on testing, tracking and treating. We have had significant learning since the start of the outbreak of the virus and we need to capitalize on this and continue learning in order to move forward.

Our heads of state have had to make very difficult decisions to reduce the damage that may be caused by a higher number of cases and deaths. As we move ahead as a continent, we need to avoid haphazard interventions, such as inconsistent messages and non-targeted public health approaches, in order to avoid damaging crises. It is also essential to have public support of the interventions and people need to take individual responsibility. Leadership is going to be tested during this time, and financial indiscipline will result in the loss of lives.