African public health indicators at risk – Egypt’s FinMin urges action

Egypt’s Finance Minister Mohamed Maait has raised concerns about worsening public health indicators across Africa driven by confluence of international tensions that pushed inflation to unprecedented levels, according to a Cabinet post on Wednesday.

The Egyptian minister brought up his concerns during a high-level roundtable for African finance ministers held on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank’s Annual Spring Meetings in Washington.

In addition, Minister Maait also highlighted rising prices of essential goods and services, coupled with funding and food shortages, as key factors contributing to the public health challenges in the continent.

These issues are likely linked to the ongoing geopolitical tensions around the world, which can disrupt supply chains and push up commodity prices, he added.

The minister emphasised the crucial role of international financial institutions in providing more sustainable, innovative, and accessible financing for emerging economies. Such financing, Minister Maait argued, is essential to improve healthcare services in Africa and help the continent adapt to the negative consequences of climate change.

He specifically highlighted the need for a gradual transition to a green economy based on the use of clean energy resources such as green hydrogen.

However, he stated that robust healthcare systems are fundamental for fostering recovery and sustainable economic growth across the African continent.

He called for increased development resources to be directed towards Africa, alongside the development of innovative solutions that boost investment in healthcare, education, and food security.

Maait’s statement underscores the need for a collaborative international approach to address critical public health challenges in Africa.

He concluded that by sharing the burden and providing targeted resources, advanced nations can play a pivotal role in ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for the continent.