Imagine a world where health knows no borders, where equity, inclusion, and sustainability are the cornerstones of global well-being. This isn't just a dream; it's the driving force behind the 18th World Congress on Public Health (WCPH 2026), taking place from September 6th to 9th, 2026, in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa. This landmark event marks a historic first: the Congress will be hosted in Southern Africa, signaling a deliberate shift towards amplifying voices from the Global South and showcasing African leadership in public health. But here's where it gets even more exciting: WCPH 2026 isn't just a conference; it's a call to action, a platform for dismantling systemic barriers and building resilient health systems that can withstand the pressures of our interconnected world.
Organized by the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) and co-hosted by the Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA), this gathering will bring together a diverse array of global health professionals, researchers, policymakers, civil society organizations, and academics. The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) will serve as the epicenter of this transformative event, fostering cross-sectoral dialogue, evidence-sharing, and networking on a scale rarely seen.
But what makes WCPH 2026 truly unique? Under the theme “Health Without Borders: Equity, Inclusion, and Sustainability,” the Congress tackles the most pressing global health challenges head-on. From climate change and mental health to vaccine confidence and decolonizing public health, the thematic tracks are as diverse as they are urgent. And this is the part most people miss: the Congress isn’t just about discussing problems; it’s about crafting collaborative, actionable solutions.
With over 30 thematic tracks, the Congress ensures broad representation of disciplines and urgent health issues. Researchers, practitioners, and organizations are invited to submit abstracts for oral presentations, posters, and workshops. The submission portal opened on September 1, 2025, with a deadline of November 30, 2025. Abstracts, written in English (max. 300 words), should follow a structured format: Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusion. Peer-reviewed by the International Scientific Committee, decisions will be announced by February 1, 2026. Accepted abstracts will be published in the official Congress Abstracts Book and included in the Population Medicine Journal, contributing to the global public health literature.
Here’s where it gets controversial: The Congress boldly addresses topics like the decolonization of public health, health equity, and the role of digital health and AI. These are not just buzzwords; they are critical conversations that challenge existing paradigms and invite differing opinions. Should public health systems prioritize technological advancements over traditional practices? How can we ensure that health equity is not just a goal but a reality for marginalized communities? We encourage you to join the discussion and share your thoughts in the comments.
Cape Town, with its rich history, diverse communities, and world-class infrastructure, provides the perfect backdrop for this international gathering. In line with its sustainability mission, WCPH 2026 will operate as a “Green Congress,” minimizing environmental impact through reduced plastic use, digital materials, and locally sourced, ethical catering. Water refill stations and paper-free documentation are just a few of the eco-friendly practices being promoted.
Whether you’re a public health professional, policymaker, academic, or advocate, WCPH 2026 offers unmatched opportunities for learning, partnership building, and amplifying innovation from diverse settings. The Congress aims to leave a lasting legacy by elevating African perspectives in global health discourse, strengthening health diplomacy, and inspiring the next generation of public health leaders.
Key dates to remember:
- Abstract submission opens: September 1, 2025
- Abstract deadline: November 30, 2025
- Notification of acceptance: February 1, 2026
- Early-bird registration ends: April 30, 2026
- Congress dates: September 6–9, 2026
For more information on abstract submission, registration, travel, and sponsorship, visit the official Congress website: https://www.wcph.org. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Telegram for updates and more opportunities like these.
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Due to high email volumes, we may not respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
