Advertorial: Unlocking Synergies: EU CBRN CoE – AU Forum to mitigate CBRN risks in Africa

Addis Abeba – In light of evolving global challenges, the urgency of addressing Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) safety and security risks has become increasingly evident. Recent incidents like the 2021 fuel tanker explosion in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and the Ebola outbreak underscore the need for proactive measures.

The European Union CBRN Centres of Excellence Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Risk Mitigation Initiative (EU CBRN CoE) – African Union (AU) Forum, scheduled for December 12-13, 2023, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, will serve as a crucial platform to explore collaborative solutions, share experiences, and foster enhanced cooperation in mitigating CBRN risks in Africa.

With 64 partner countries, including 28 from Africa, the EU CBRN CoE Initiative is dedicated to enhancing national capacities in preventing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from CBRN events both at strategic and technical levels. The regional approach entails the implementation of regional projects in fields like epidemics, chemical risks prevention, falsified medicines, border control and others. At the national level, countries are supported in the establishment of national CBRN teams and the drafting of national CBRN action plans defining the countries strategy to mitigate CBRN risks.

As the initiative approaches its 14th year, the need to expand collaboration has become apparent. The Forum aims to align the interests and opportunities of partner countries and the international community to effectively mitigate CBRN risks. Representatives from the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, international organizations and partner countries will convene over two days to foster collaboration, unlock synergies, and contribute to a safer future for Africa. AS