Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – A new Africa Health Security Index shows African countries have significantly strengthened their health security since the COVID-19 pandemic, but persistent weaknesses continue to leave the continent vulnerable to future disease outbreaks and public health emergencies.
The index, released on July 21, 2026, finds that Africa is nearly 30 per cent more prepared than it was five years ago. However, the continent records an average score of only 41.5 out of 100, underscoring major shortcomings in health security systems.
The assessment evaluates all 54 African countries using 190 indicators and reports that 52 countries improve their overall preparedness scores.
Despite the progress, the report warns that gaps in biosecurity, biosafety, emergency financing and outbreak response capacity could allow local disease outbreaks to escalate into regional or global health crises. The findings come as Central Africa continues to battle a deadly Ebola outbreak.
The report highlights improvements in biosurveillance, medical countermeasure development and climate-related health security but says deployment capacity, workforce readiness and sustainable financing remain inadequate.
Judith Omumbo, Head of Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation at the Science for Africa Foundation, says the index provides African governments with a critical evidence base for health investments.
“The AHS Index is a game changer for an exceptionally diverse continent with wide differences in national incomes, climate, governance, and social conditions. It measures our unique strengths and strategic opportunities and provides the evidence base for African-controlled health investments and policy decisions.”
Dr Wilmot James, Senior Adviser to the Brown University Pandemic Center, says Africa has made measurable progress but warns that stronger investment remains essential.
“The measurable increase in capacity is the result of dedication, hard work, and investment in the health security of Africa over recent years, but much more is needed. Substantial gaps remain that can mean the difference between a small outbreak and an international pandemic.”
Health experts say sustained investment in surveillance systems, laboratory networks, emergency preparedness and financing will be crucial to preventing future epidemics and strengthening Africa’s resilience against emerging health threats.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Abah Felicity 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Hussaini Ibrahim