On February 21, 2026, the 6th One Health International Forum in Fukuoka was held at ACROS Fukuoka.
Experts and researchers from Japan and abroad participated in the forum. Under the theme “Considering the Coexistence of Cities and Life: One Health Approach in the Era of Climate Change,” the importance of the One Health approach was highlighted in addressing familiar challenges such as climate change, urban environments, and infectious diseases.
In the special lecture, Dr. Jacqueline W. Kitulu, President of the World Medical Association, took the stage. She introduced various initiatives in Kenya and emphasized the need for a One Health approach in the field of health security.
At the One Health Practice Presentation Session, Associate Professor Dr. Fumihiko Yokota of the Kyushu University Institute for Asian and Oceanian Studies introduced international
initiatives at Kyushu University as well as the latest research utilizing AI.
Ms. Rosalia Mwongeli Makau, a graduate student at Yamaguchi University, presented her
research findings on bacteria found in bats, highlighting their importance in understanding the risks of infectious diseases.
In addition, the Fukuoka Institute of Health and Environmental Sciences reported on research into zoonotic diseases within the prefecture.
Furthermore, students from Kurume Chikusui High School gave a presentation introducing their efforts to develop environmentally friendly products using local resources.
In the keynote session, four speakers took the stage: Dr. William Sander (Associate Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Center for One Health Illinois, University of Illinois), Dr. Avi Sarkar (UN-Habitat Head of Office, Lao PDR), Dr. Shunsuke Managi (Distinguished Professor, Kyushu University Director, Urban Institute, Kyushu University), and Dr. Motoyuki Sugai (Director, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Japan Institute for Health Security).
Based on their latest research, each speaker highlighted the importance of the One Health approach from the perspective of their respective fields of expertise.
In the panel discussion that followed, participants exchanged views from multiple angles,
including the importance of One Health education and cross-sectoral initiatives.
