Regional Calls to Strengthen Health Systems in East Africa
Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has called on East African nations to work toward strengthening health sovereignty. This came during his participation in a healthcare forum recently held to discuss health challenges in the region.
In his speech, Gebeyehu emphasized the importance of investing in robust healthcare systems capable of facing future crises. He explained that relying on local resources and developing medical infrastructure is an essential step to ensure the stability of nations and protect their people from epidemics and diseases.
This call comes at a time when countries in the region are seeking greater cooperation to exchange medical expertise and develop pharmaceutical industries. The official stressed that regional cooperation is the key to achieving self-sufficiency in the health sector, which reduces reliance on foreign aid.
This issue is of great importance to Egypt, given its pivotal role on the African continent and its strong relations with East African countries. Egypt continuously contributes to supporting African health initiatives by providing medical expertise and sending the necessary aid to support the stability of its neighbors' health systems.
At the conclusion of the forum, participants agreed on the need to develop a joint action plan aimed at improving the quality of health services and facilitating access for all citizens. It is expected that the coming period will see greater coordination among IGAD countries to enhance regional health security.