Wednesday, July 12th, 2006

The Importance of Integrated Country Programs in the Fight against Avian and Human Influenza (AHI)

WB Conducts First Seminar in Inter-Regional Knowledge Sharing Series

The World Bank launched a new series of inter-regional distance learning seminars on Avian and Human Influenza (AHI) on July 12, 2006, with its first session, “The Importance of Integrated Country Programs in the Fight Against Avian and Human Influenza (AHI)”. The series utilizes the GDLN as an effective platform, allowing institutions, governments, technical agencies, donors, NGOs and others around the world to hold regular discussions on topics that are of high priority when dealing with AHI preparedness. The seminar was webcast live through the internet and comments and questions were accepted in real time via e-mail.

The first session focused on integrated country plans that form the basis for a coordinated and effective national response, with presentations by senior officials from Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam. A total of 6 sites spanning 3 continents participated, with close to 100 in attendance. Comments were raised from Nigeria as well as Japan, with Mr. Taro Yamamoto, Deputy Director, Aid Planning Division of the Economic Cooperation Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaking from the TDLC.

The session provided important insight into the ways in which countries, at very different stages in their response to AHI, have embedded the principles of coordinated multi-sectoral, planning, implementation and monitoring in their national plans. In countries where the response is most advanced, authorities are now looking to strengthen the role of civil society and the private sector and to introduce approaches that will ensure effective communication between all levels of government involved.

More information, including footage of the video discussion, presentations and all resource materials can be accessed on the web at http://www.worldbank.org/avianflu