The 67th World Health Assembly made history a decade ago by passing Resolution WHA67.20, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based policy-making in healthcare. This resolution aimed to integrate evidence-based approaches into global public health policymaking, with a focus on Africa’s healthcare priorities.
Dr. Raji Tajadin, Deputy Director of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), highlighted Africa’s goal of achieving an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful future by 2063. He emphasized the need for evidence-based priority-setting in healthcare to support this vision.
The Africa CDC’s health economics and financing program has been at the forefront of driving evidence-based priority-setting in healthcare on the continent. Collaborating with global partners, policymakers, and health experts, they discussed the progress made since the historic resolution was passed.
Dr. Tajadin outlined five critical pillars of the new public health order endorsed by African heads of state, including workforce development, local manufacturing of medical supplies, increased healthcare funding, and strong partnerships.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges African health systems face in meeting the population’s needs, especially during emergencies. Dr. Tajadin stressed the importance of building resilient health systems capable of maintaining essential services while responding to crises.
Dr. Salam Gueye, WHO African Region Emergency Director, emphasized the need for evidence-based priority-setting in the region, especially in the face of limited resources. He highlighted the financial challenges and the importance of external funding in financing healthcare in Africa.
Efforts have been made to support African countries in implementing evidence-informed priority-setting since the resolution’s passage. The Africa CDC, in collaboration with key partners, has developed a continental framework for evidence-informed priority-setting tailored to the specific needs of each country.
Overall, the focus on evidence-based policy-making and priority-setting in healthcare is crucial for Africa to address its healthcare challenges and achieve its long-term vision of a healthy and prosperous continent. Collaboration between organizations like Africa CDC and WHO is essential in guiding African countries towards improved health outcomes and well-being.