Promoting an integrated response to public health challenges was the focus of the Learning Event for the HeSP project—Health Security for West and Central African Countries—held on Wednesday, March 18.

The meeting took place as part of the mission to support the implementation of the Health Security Program in West and Central Africa (HeSP), which was held from March 11 to 20, 2026, and served as a forum for sharing, reflection, and learning. The initiative brought together experts and representatives from various fields to discuss the topic “Integrated Epidemiological Surveillance in the Context of the One Health Approach.”

The One Health approach is based on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, reinforcing the need for coordinated action across sectors.

The opening session featured remarks by Dr. Maria da Luz Lima, President of the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) and Coordinator of the One Health Initiative in Cape Verde, and Dr. André Carletto, of the World Bank Group and Task Team Leader of the HeSP project. During the session, the importance of multisectoral collaboration for a more effective response to health challenges was highlighted.
The keynote presentation, titled “Integrated Epidemiological Surveillance in the Context of the One Health Approach: Mechanisms for Its Implementation in Cape Verde,” was delivered by Dr. Maria da Luz Lima and moderated by Dr. Jorge Noel of the World Bank. The presentation provided an overview of the progress made and identified the mechanisms needed to strengthen integrated surveillance in the country.

The event continued with a panel discussion focused on the challenges of cross-sectoral collaboration and the opportunities provided by the HeSP project, bringing together experts from the fields of human and animal health. The session also included an interactive segment with the audience, promoting the sharing of perspectives and experiences.

The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. André Carletto, who reiterated the importance of continuing to strengthen cooperation between sectors, consolidating an integrated, resilient, and sustainable approach to health