• Participants were unanimous that simulation exercises are relevant to assessment and to enhance public health emergency preparedness and response capacities._x000D_ • Participants called on WHO and partners to support the planning and conduct of simulation exercise at the national level for SADC countries in the months to come._x000D_ • Constructive feedback on the exercise package was received, including the need to develop material specifically grounded in the African context. _x000D_ • Participants supported the need for the SADC countries to conduct Joint External Evaluation (JEE) of the IHR (2005) core capacities and to develop and implement plans to address gaps._x000D_ • Participants supported the need to develop and implement standardised mechanisms/tools within the SADC region, including mechanisms/tools with regard to mapping regional capacities, sharing information and collaborating in preparedness and response activities. _x000D_