Africa / Fighting cholera: the Red Cross strengthens its support for the African Union

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in partnership with its African National Societies, has renewed its commitment to support the African Union (AU) and its member states in the fight against cholera, which is currently affecting nearly 20 countries on the continent.

In a statement released Thursday, the IFRC recalled that its support was strengthened following a high-level meeting held in June, which brought together several African heads of state and government. This meeting led to the establishment of a joint strategy to curb recurring cholera outbreaks through a Call to Action to end the disease by 2030.

The Red Cross welcomes this political mobilization and fully supports the priorities that have been defined, notably strengthening national and regional preparedness capacities, investing in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, and mobilizing local communities and civil society.

Thanks to their presence in all AU member states and their community-based roots, the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies are key partners of public authorities. Their role is crucial in translating political commitments into concrete actions tailored to local realities.

In a context where cholera continues to weaken already fragile health systems, the IFRC is stepping up its efforts on the ground. Interventions include distributing oral rehydration therapy (ORT) through rehydration points (RPs), carrying out emergency WASH operations in affected areas, and supporting vaccination campaigns through social and logistical mobilization.

Aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Continental Framework for the Elimination of Cholera, the IFRC is also focusing on anticipatory action. Its goal: to strengthen community resilience and prevent future epidemics through better preparedness and coordination of humanitarian responses.