Momentum builds for One Health as South Africa advances national strategic framework

“One Health is now recognised as a global commitment through the Pandemic Agreement, reinforcing the need for countries, including South Africa, to establish strong, coordinated preparedness and response systems.”

This was one of the key messages shared by Professor Wanda Markotter, One Health Research Chair at Future Africa, University of Pretoria, and Co-Chair of the global One Health High-Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP), during closing remarks at a recent national stakeholder engagement in Pretoria convened to finalise the draft National One Health Strategic Framework.

Prof Markotter underscored the growing global and national momentum to strengthen cross-sectoral collaboration through the One Health approach. She emphasised that the development of a South African One Health strategic framework is a critical step towards enabling aligned, multisectoral action.

“There is renewed energy among national stakeholders to address our shared challenges across sectors,” said Prof Markotter. “Academia is a vital partner in this process, and the University of Pretoria is committed to working closely with government to finalise the National One Health Strategic Framework.”

She also highlighted the role of the newly established Institute for Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention (IP3), a consortium of ten South African universities, which will contribute scientific expertise and support national efforts to strengthen One Health governance, research and workforce development.

Prof Markotter noted that the strategic framework is intended to enable meaningful cross-sectoral collaboration and implementation, rather than remain a standalone policy document.