Kenya to Host Major One Health Conference to Tackle Emerging Health Threats.
By Peace Muthoka.
Nairobi, October 14, 2025 — Kenya is set to host the Kenya One Health Conference on November 6–7, bringing together global experts, researchers, policymakers, and students to raise awareness about the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Speaking during a media briefing in Nairobi, Dr. Victor Yamo, Executive Director of the Global One Health Advocacy Alliance, said the two-day event will focus on strengthening collaboration across sectors to prevent future pandemics and health crises.
“The One Health approach recognizes that the health of people is closely linked to the health of animals and our shared environment,” Dr. Yamo said. “Nearly 70 percent of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate from animals. Managing that interaction is key to preventing future outbreaks.”
He explained that the conference will provide a platform for experts to discuss critical issues such as antimicrobial resistance, food safety, and zoonotic diseases, emphasizing the need for countries to adopt integrated policies that promote shared responsibility for health security.
Dr. Yamo noted that Kenya already has national strategies in place to address some of these challenges, but greater collaboration is needed between human health, animal health, and environmental sectors. “It’s time we stop treating symptoms and start addressing the underlying drivers of disease,” he said.
As part of preparations for the Kenya One Health Conference, the Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) in partnership with the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has extended a cordial invitation to stakeholders, professionals, and students to participate in activities leading up to the November event. The partnerships aim to deepen collaboration and foster a shared understanding of the One Health approach across sectors.
The event will also feature student and community engagement activities aimed at building awareness of the One Health approach among young people and academic institutions. A series of webinars, workshops, and interactive sessions will connect students across Kenya with experts to discuss how they can contribute to global health solutions.
“We want to empower the next generation of researchers, innovators, and policymakers,” Dr. Yamo added. “Students will have a chance to participate in discussions, submit research abstracts, and even compete in global One Health innovation challenges.”
The conference will take place in Nairobi, with delegates expected from across Africa, including Uganda, South Africa, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Tanzania. It will be part of global One Health celebrations that bring together institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and the One Health High-Level Expert Panel.
Dr. Yamo emphasized that the ultimate goal is to create a more connected and proactive health system. “When we protect one, we protect all,” he said. “One Health is not just about disease control it’s about ensuring a healthier, safer, and sustainable world for everyone.”
