Auditing Africa's collective health care mechanisms post COVID-19

The COVID-19 crisis has undoubtedly exposed the weaknesses in Africa's healthcare systems, leaving the continent vulnerable and in need of significant improvements. In a recent TV news interview on CNBC Africa, former World Health Organization chief scientist, Somya Sominathan, shed light on the current state of Africa's healthcare mechanisms post the pandemic. During the interview, Sominathan emphasized the continent's heavy reliance on imports and donations for essential medical supplies such as personal protective equipment, diagnostic kits, vaccines, and drugs. This dependence highlighted a critical need for self-reliance within Africa's healthcare infrastructure. Recognizing this gap, the Africa CDC, supported by the African Union and heads of states, initiated a regional approach to address these shortcomings collectively. Sominathan commended this unified effort as a crucial step towards building a more robust healthcare system. Key Points: 1. Regional Approach to Healthcare: Sominathan stressed the importance of a regional approach to healthcare in Africa, highlighting the disparities in resources and capacity among different countries. By fostering collaboration and pooling resources, countries can work towards self-sufficiency in healthcare production and delivery. 2. mRNA Technology Transfer Program: Sominathan discussed the mRNA technology transfer program initiated during her tenure at the WHO, involving six African countries. This program aims to share knowledge and technology equitably, ensuring wider access to critical medical advancements such as vaccines. 3. Debt and Climate Change: Sominathan addressed the economic challenges faced by African nations post-COVID, emphasizing the need for high-income countries to support debt relief and technology sharing. She highlighted the interconnectedness of climate change and healthcare, advocating for a global approach to address these shared challenges. In discussing the impact of the pandemic on Africa's healthcare systems, Sominathan underscored the importance of investing in primary healthcare and public health infrastructure. Countries that had prioritized community health workers, data collection mechanisms, and strong public health systems fared better during the crisis. On the contrary, nations with advanced medical facilities but neglected public health infrastructure faced significant challenges. Moreover, Sominathan raised concerns about the impact of travel and trade restrictions on African economies during the pandemic. The arbitrary imposition of blockades following the discovery of new variants disrupted trade and led to substantial economic losses. To mitigate such challenges in future health crises, she emphasized the need for global cooperation and the establishment of policies like the proposed pandemic treaty. In conclusion, Sominathan reiterated the concept of shared responsibility in addressing the healthcare and economic challenges facing Africa. Calling for debt relief and technology transfer, she urged high-income countries to support African nations in their recovery efforts. By fostering solidarity and collaboration, Sominathan believes that Africa can overcome the post-pandemic hurdles and emerge as a thriving continent with sustainable healthcare solutions.