Africa: WHO RC76 Participants 'Walk the Talk' in Addis Ababa, Championing Healthier Africa

Participants of the 76th session of the World Health Organization's Regional Committee for Africa (RC76) in Addis Ababa embarked on a symbolic walk on Sunday, marching from the Adwa Victory Memorial to Meskel Square. This health walk aimed to bridge health policies and commitments into practical daily actions, promoting physical activity and healthier lifestyles across Africa.

The event featured Ethiopia's Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba, African health ministers, senior government officials, WHO leaders, and renowned athletes like Ethiopian Athletics Federation President Commander Sileshi Sihine. The walk, which began at the historic Adwa Victory Memorial, a symbol of Ethiopia's resistance to colonialism, and concluded at Meskel Square, underscored the importance of regular physical activity in preventing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular ailments.

It also highlighted Africa's commitment to enhancing public health by moving from discussions to tangible health practices. The upcoming 76th RC76 session, set for August 24-28, 2026, in Addis Ababa, will gather over 600 delegates from the 47 member states of the WHO African Region, alongside global health leaders and partners. The session will evaluate regional health progress, discuss new strategies, and identify actions to bolster health systems, universal health coverage, emergency preparedness, and overall health security across the continent.

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