The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) inaugurated its country office in Egypt on November 27, 2024, in a ceremonial event attended by distinguished health professionals and policymakers from the EMR and other parts of the world. This significant milestone reinforces EMPHNET's commitment to advancing public health and fostering cross-border partnerships.

The opening ceremony featured a keynote speech by EMPHNET’s Executive Director, Dr. Mohannad Al Nsour, followed by a welcoming address by Egypt’s Deputy Minister of Health and Population Dr. Amer Qandil. Other event highlights included a presentation showcasing EMPHNET’s pivotal contributions to public health in the region, alongside a short video highlighting its key initiatives and achievements in Egypt.

The ceremony also offered a space for fruitful discussions on EMPHNET’s ongoing activities in Egypt including its collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Population in support of Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs), as well as the areas of communicable disease control, and capacity-building for health professionals. Additionally, a panel discussion explored future opportunities for collaboration for address pressing health challenges in Egypt and the region.

"Within its role as a regional network, EMPHNET is committed to enhancing public health practice in the region and beyond. Building the capacities of the health workforce is critical, especially in light of the man-made and natural emergencies our region faces,” said Dr. Mohannad Al-Nsour 

He added, "I see our presence in Egypt as a steppingstone for creating stronger partnerships with diverse entities operating in the country, thus fostering a multisectoral response to health challenges. I am optimistic that this office will bring us closer to realizing our vision for building healthier communities across the region and other priority countries, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of EMPHNET’s work in Egypt on community health”.

The establishment of EMPHNET’s country office in Egypt is a strategic move anticipated to strengthen the country’s health sector. It will foster the implementation of innovative initiatives while building on the success of existing projects. Amongst EMPHNET’s past successes are its contributions to national campaigns for  polio eradication and hepatitis surveillance, as well as its demonstration of leadership in health initiatives like "100 Million Healthy Lives,” and its support for enhanced surveillance systems, workforce training, and pandemic response efforts. EMPHNET has also played a key role in launching the FETP for One Health in Egypt, supporting a more integrated approach to health challenges. Its presence in the country is expected to facilitate the implementation of customized FETP modalities tailored to Egypt’s unique public health needs.

From another angle, training the health workforce remains central to EMPHNET’s mission, and through its academic and training arm, the International Academy of Public Health (IAPH), it plans to implement specialized programs designed to build the capacity of health workers in epidemiology, emergency preparedness, and other critical areas. These efforts aim to empower Egypt’s health professionals with the skills needed to address current and emerging health threats effectively. Strengthening the health workforce is pivotal to ensuring better preparedness and response to crises, ultimately contributing to more resilient health systems in the country.

The launch of EMPHNET’s country office in Egypt marks a significant milestone in its journey toward fostering healthier communities, not only in Egypt but across the region and in other priority countries. This office is expected to serve as a hub for collaboration and innovation, driving impactful public health initiatives and advancing EMPHNET’s vision for a healthier future.