Durban, South Africa, October 25, 2025. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) proudly announces the official launch of its Strategy for Youth Engagement and Participation in Global Health (YES!Health) for 2025–2028. The launch took place at the 4th International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2025) during a Special Session titled “YES to Health: Why Youth Belong at the Centre of Global Health” held on Friday, October 24, 2025, on the margins of CPHIA. This milestone marks a decisive step in mobilizing, engaging, and empowering Africa’s young people to lead, shape, and sustain Africa’s New Public Health Order.

The burgeoning youth population across Africa represents a formidable force for innovation, resilience, and progress. As we step into the years 2025 to 2028, Africa finds itself at a pivotal juncture where the energy, creativity, and ingenuity of its young people can significantly shape the future of global health.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) recognizes this immense potential and is committed to fostering an environment where the youth are not just beneficiaries but active participants and leaders in global health initiatives.

The Africa CDC Strategy for Youth Engagement and Participation in Global Health (2025-2028) is a testament to our engagement and commitment to inclusivity and empowerment of young people. It underscores our belief that the youth are key stakeholders in the quest for health security, equity, and resilience. This strategy aims to create meaningful opportunities for young people to contribute to and benefit from health policies, programs, and innovations.