#InTheEyesOfMC: Reflections on Advocacy, Policy & Social Change in Global Health – 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the transformative strides and persistent challenges in global health. This year has reinforced the vital role of advocacy, innovative policy, and collective action in shaping equitable health outcomes. Through my journey and interactions across diverse platforms, several themes stood out prominently.

Advocacy in the Age of Misinformation

The digital age has brought unparalleled access to health information, but it has also exacerbated the spread of misinformation. Across social media platforms, unverified health practices continue to proliferate, often overshadowing evidence-based guidance. Health professionals face an urgent call to counter this tide.

In one of my articles, I emphasized the power of professional voices in restoring public trust: "With many people picking up health practices guided by misinformation on social media, it is key for health professionals to share best practices."

This responsibility requires not only proactive engagement but also collaboration between policymakers, tech platforms, and communities to ensure that truth prevails over sensationalism.

Policy and Leadership as Pillars of Progress

Strong leadership and innovative policies were at the heart of this year’s most impactful health initiatives. I had the privilege of engaging with leaders, whose commitment to health reforms reminded me of the importance of visionary leadership in driving systemic change.

Collaborative efforts—between governments, health organizations, and local communities—remain critical to building resilient health systems. Together, we must champion equity and sustainability in health policy formulation and execution.

Digital Health: A Bridge to Equity

Africa’s potential to leverage digital health to close healthcare access gaps was another recurring theme in my reflections this year. From telemedicine solutions to AI-powered diagnostics, digital health tools hold immense promise for underserved populations.

I have often remarked that digital health is not just a tool but a key to equitable healthcare across the continent. This technology must, however, be accompanied by investments in infrastructure, digital literacy, and inclusive strategies to ensure that no one is left behind.

The Power of Youth Engagement

As a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, I have seen firsthand the transformative energy young professionals bring to global health. Initiatives like the Kenya Healthcare Students Summit, which I co-founded in 2019, continue to serve as platforms for fostering collaboration and innovation among young leaders.

This year, I was reminded that empowering youth is not just about creating opportunities but also about enabling them to challenge norms and drive sustainable change.

Healthcare Workers: The Backbone of Systems

Finally, the welfare of healthcare workers remains a pressing issue. From burnout to inadequate compensation, the challenges they face are numerous, yet their resilience is extraordinary. In Kenya, I facilitated open discussions where medics shared their lived experiences during national strikes, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and respect for their essential roles.

Mentorship and advocacy for improved working conditions must remain a priority as we work towards building a health workforce that is supported, valued, and empowered.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on these themes, I am filled with both hope and resolve. The journey of advocacy, policy, and social change in global health is far from over, but the progress we’ve made in 2024 is a testament to what we can achieve when we unite for a common purpose.

As I continue sharing insights through #InTheEyesOfMC, I invite fellow advocates, policymakers, and health professionals to join the conversation. Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable world—one informed decision, one policy reform, and one act of solidarity at a time.

Marie-Claire Wangari, MBChB, MSc (Ongoing)

Advocate for Global Health Equity

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