Ministry of Health and Population representatives attend the final session of the nationwide RRT training. Photo credit: WHO/WHO Egypt2 December 2025, Cairo, Egypt – In October 2025, the Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP), in collaboration with WHO Egypt and with support from the Pandemic Fund, concluded the final round of nationwide training sessions for rapid response teams (RRTs).
Since they began in July 2025, nearly 270 participants from across Egypt’s 27 governorates have taken part in the training sessions. Attendees have been equipped with the skills to effectively manage public health emergencies and standardize response procedures across the country, strengthening coordination, communication and field readiness through a One Health approach that connects the human, animal and environmental health sectors.
WHO technical officer delivering a session during the final round of training. Photo credit: WHO/WHO EgyptThe long-standing partnership between MOHP and WHO Egypt has enhanced the operational capabilities, logistical infrastructure and overall coordination of RRTs, helping to ensure timely and effective deployment during health crises.
Egypt’s RRTs were established under the national avian influenza preparedness plan in 2005. In 2006, a multilevel RRT network was activated during the H5N1 outbreak. In 2007, the MOHP issued a national influenza pandemic preparedness plan and has been strengthening its system ever since.
Participant discussions during the final round of RRT training. Photo credit: WHO/ WHO EgyptIn 2019, with continued WHO support, the MOHP developed a national RRT manual. In 2022, a central RRT unit was established, comprising a core team of 40 members supported by WHO Egypt and other international partners. Specialized all-hazards workshops and the creation of a monitoring and evaluation framework helped to ensure programme effectiveness.
The partnership has continued to evolve, resulting in the creation of comprehensive management guidelines and the expansion of RRTs to all 27 governorates in 2025.
By investing in a skilled, coordinated rapid response workforce, the MOHP and WHO are building a stronger shield against future public health threats.
