WLAK THE TALK: WHO Africa Health Leaders Take Health Commitments to the Streets of Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, August 23, 2026 (FMC) — Participants of the 76th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa (RC76) took part in a symbolic health walk on Sunday from the Adwa Victory Memorial to Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, turning the “Walk the Talk” message into action while promoting physical activity and healthier lifestyles across Africa.

Ethiopia’s Health Minister Mekdes Daba, African health ministers, senior government officials, WHO leaders and prominent athletes, including Ethiopian Athletics Federation President Sileshi Sihine, participated in the event.

The initiative sought to translate health policies and commitments into practical action by encouraging people to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily lives and raising public awareness about preventing non-communicable diseases.

The walk began at the Adwa Victory Memorial, a landmark symbolizing Ethiopia’s historic victory and African resistance to colonialism, and proceeded through Addis Ababa’s pedestrian routes before concluding at Meskel Square.

Organizers emphasized that regular physical activity plays a vital role in reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, while contributing to healthier and more active communities.

The event also underscored Africa’s collective commitment to improving public health and the importance of moving beyond policy discussions toward tangible, everyday health practices.

The 76th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa is scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa from August 24 to 28, 2026, bringing together more than 600 delegates, including health ministers and senior officials from the WHO African Region’s 47 member states, global health leaders, development partners, donors and WHO representatives.

During the five-day session, participants will assess progress toward regional health goals and deliberate on new strategies and resolutions.

The session is also expected to identify collective actions to strengthen health systems, advance universal health coverage, enhance health security and improve emergency preparedness across the continent.

The gathering is expected to provide a major platform for African countries and global health partners to deepen continental health cooperation and advance practical solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing health challenges.