Editor
By Fatima Saka
The West African Health Organisation has recapitulated that quality human resources in the health sector must be available in order to achieve effective healthcare outcomes in Africa.
Director General of WAHO Dr. Aissi Melchior Athanase Joel stated this while declaring open the Health Experts meeting which is part of the technical sessions for the 25th Ordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Assembly of Health Ministers (AHM).
Revolving around the theme: “Quality of Healthcare in the ECOWAS region: analysis of Determinants and Perspectives” held from 13th to 17th 2024, in Abuja.
He said that the theme of the meeting is perfectly in line with the elements of analysis of the objective of the organization and indicates continuity of the 24th World Health Assembly (WHA) theme adding that health norms must be applied and the standard of Health quality established for human care in all forms, respected and upheld at all times.
Dr. Aissi reminded that “we have five years to attain the deadline set for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and therefore the pressure is mounting on all States in general and those of the ECOWAS region particularly, in view of the progress made and the effective evidence of mechanisms and approaches capable of strengthening and amplifying the effects of our actions in the hope of achieving the expected results in the long term”.
The DG advised the experts to carry out a critical analysis accompanied by concrete solutions to comply with the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation on breastfeeding up to the age of 6 months, which is one of the most effective ways of preserving health and ensuring child survival.
While thanking Nigeria for hosting the 25th AHM, he conveyed warm greetings of Dr. Omar Alieu TOURAY, President of the ECOWAS Commission and wished the experts fruitful discussions and deliberations.
In his speech, Director, Health, Planning, Research and Statistics (HPRS) Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, doubling as the Chairman, Health Experts Committee stated that the Nigerian Government is committed to ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services across all communities.
According to him, Nigeria, as one of the largest and most populous country in the region, offers unique perspectives and challenges in delivering healthcare services evident in the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative which is designed to reduce physical and financial pains and produce health for all Nigerians.
Dr. Chris revealed the need for much work to be done particularly in addressing persistent issues such as maternal and child health infectious diseases and the emerging threat of non-communicable diseases.
He noted that the National Health Insurance Scheme being re-organised, is aimed at expanding coverage and reducing out-of-pocket expenses of healthcare.
He further stated that, “as we convene to discuss strategies and forge partnerships, let us reaffirm our dedication to the health and well being of every individual in our region. Together, through collaboration, innovation and shared resources, we can overcome challenges, strengthen health systems and build a brighter, healthier future for all West Africans as well as chart the course for an innovative West Africa”.
