Organization: World Congress on Human Health (WCHP)

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Application deadline: November 30th, 2025

ABOUT

The 18th World Congress on Public Health (WCPH 2026) will be held from 6–9 September 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa — the first time it will take place in Southern Africa. Organized by the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) and co-hosted by the Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA), the Congress will gather over 2,000 global public health professionals, policymakers, researchers, and organizations under the theme “Health Without Borders: Equity, Inclusion, and Sustainability.”

The event aims to promote collaboration on global health challenges by addressing systemic inequities and building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable health systems. Emphasizing the interconnected nature of today’s world, it will tackle issues such as climate change, migration, and health disparities. Hosting the Congress in South Africa highlights African leadership and ensures strong representation and dialogue from the Global South.

Congress Structure and Focus Areas

The WCPH 2026 programme will include:

• Plenary sessions with high-level speakers
• Oral and poster presentations
• Interactive workshops
• Roundtable discussions and side events
• Exhibitions and networking opportunities

Topics will span critical areas of public health including, but not limited to:

• Health equity, gender justice, and social determinants of health
• Climate change and environmental health
• Mental health and well-being
• Decolonisation of public health
• Health systems strengthening
• Vaccine confidence and pandemic preparedness
• Public health ethics, law, and governance
• Digital health and AI
• Maternal, child, and adolescent health
• Indigenous and traditional health practices
• Minorities, refugees, and LGBTQ+ health
• Public health communication, disinformation, and advocacy

Abstract Submission and Scientific Contributions

All abstracts must be written in English (max. 300 words) and follow a structured format: Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusion.

Submissions will be peer-reviewed by the International Scientific Committee, and decisions will be announced by 1 February 2026.

Accepted presenters must confirm participation by 30 April 2026 to retain their place in the programme.

Who Should Attend

• Public health professionals, clinicians, and epidemiologists
• Policy makers and government officials
• Academics, researchers, and students
• NGOs, civil society organizations, and community health workers
• Development agencies and donors
• Industry leaders in health tech and diagnostics
• Advocates, journalists, and thought leaders in health communication

Broader Impact

WCPH 2026 aims to leave a lasting legacy by:

• Elevating African perspectives in global health discourse
• Strengthening health diplomacy and advocacy capacity
• Creating lasting partnerships and South-South collaborations
• Sharing practical solutions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Inspiring the next generation of public health leaders

How to Apply:

Fill the application form in the link below:

Registration World Congress on Public Health

For more information:

Visit WCPH official website on the link below:

World Congress on Public Health