One Health Framework Implementations — The One Health approach recognizes that human, animal, and environmental health are interdependent. Addressing global health challenges—such as pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and ecosystem degradation—requires collaboration across these sectors. Nearly 60% of known infectious diseases and 75% of emerging ones are zoonotic, most originating in wildlife. Historical and modern outbreaks, including the Black Death, 1918 influenza, Ebola, and COVID-19, illustrate how disruptions at the human–animal interface can cascade into global crises.

Global Frameworks and Collaborations

International organizations have institutionalized One Health through strategic alliances. The Tripartite Collaboration—WHO, FAO, and WOAH—was established in 2010 to jointly address health risks at the human–animal–ecosystem interface. In 2022, this evolved into the Quadripartite Collaboration with UNEP, harmonizing definitions and global implementation. The Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) further promotes One Health to strengthen countries’ abilities to prevent, detect, and respond to zoonotic threats.

Regional Implementations in Africa

Africa has led continental coordination through the African Union (AU) and Africa CDC. The AU created the One Health Coordinating Group on Zoonotic Diseases to enhance surveillance and control efforts across member states. Africa CDC’s Framework for One Health Practice in National Public Health Institutes strengthens data sharing, workforce capacity, and multisectoral governance. Additionally, AU-IBAR programs have integrated One Health principles into national action plans for highly pathogenic avian influenza and other transboundary diseases.

Country-Level Case Studies

Real-world applications highlight how One Health translates into action. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the PREDICT project supported the rapid containment of an Ebola outbreak through cross-sectoral testing and wildlife surveillance. Tanzania institutionalized One Health coordination via a national strategic plan and evaluation framework. Rwanda’s One Health Steering Committee improved preparedness for avian influenza, while Bolivia’s wildlife surveillance enabled early detection of yellow fever in monkeys, triggering prompt human vaccination. Kenya’s Zoonotic Disease Unit and Uganda’s trypanosomiasis programs further exemplify sustained multisectoral coordination.

Lessons and Barriers

While progress has been substantial, implementation faces persistent challenges. Fragmented governance, siloed sectors, and inadequate resources often hinder sustained collaboration. Success depends on national political commitment, dedicated funding, integrated data systems, and trained interdisciplinary leaders. Evaluations, such as the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) in Tanzania, demonstrate the value of self-assessment and accountability in strengthening cross-sectoral health security.

Toward a Sustainable Future

The One Health paradigm provides a framework for preventing future zoonotic crises by promoting collaboration, shared surveillance, and data-driven policymaking. Institutionalizing this approach worldwide is essential for managing not only infectious diseases but also climate-related and environmental health threats. Building resilient systems under the One Health framework will ensure a healthier, safer, and more sustainable future for all.

Written by ISID Emerging Leader, Dr. Gültekin Ünal

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