Looking Back At The Africa Health ExCon 2024

The Africa Health ExCon , held in Cairo from June 3-7, 2024, was a groundbreaking event that brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to shape the future of healthcare in Africa. As part of the African Business Coalition for Health (ABC Health) delegation, led by Zouera Youssoufou , MD/CEO of the Dangote Foundation and coordinated by Dr. Mories Atoki (Hon.) , the CEO of ABC Health. The West African Institute of Public Health (WAIPH) played a major role in the activities of the conference, organised under the auspices of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the President of The Arab Republic of Egypt, and the presence of H.E. Dr Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, through the Director-General, Dr Francis O. and some of its key Fellows that are positively impacting the domain of public health across the the continent.

WAIPH's participation was a landmark moment, leading to new partnerships and collaborations. The Academy of Public Health 's Fellows, that played point roles in their participation under the auspices of their various organisations and delegations, included Dr Amit N. Thakker FAPH (Kenya), Dr Maimouna Diop Ly FAPH (Senegal) , Dr. Mehad Nasreldin FAPH (Sudan), and Dr. Amina Aminu Dorayi FAPH (Nigeria). These Fellows actively engaged in various aspects of the conference, sharing their expertise and contributing to the discourse.

A key outcome of the conference was the announcement at the opening event hosted by H.E. Dr Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, by H.E. Dr Dr. Jean Kaseya , the Director-General of the Africa CDC that from 2025, Africa Health ExCon ,would be part of the flagship programmes on the annual continental calendar as it would partner with the Egyptian Government to make it a hub for health business and industry.

The Africa CDC's partnership with the Egyptian Government, alongside other continental actors, is poised to revolutionise the healthcare landscape in Africa. This collaboration will transform the Africa Health ExCon into a premier hub for health business and industry, fostering innovation, knowledge sharing, and investment opportunities. By leveraging Egypt's strategic location and the Africa CDC's continental expertise, this partnership will:

- Enhance the ExCon's impact and reach across Africa

- Facilitate the development of sustainable healthcare solutions

- Promote Africa's healthcare sector globally

- Strengthen public-private partnerships and collaborations

- Accelerate progress toward universal health coverage and healthcare development in Africa

This new partnership portends to unlock new possibilities for healthcare transformation in Africa, building on the success of the 2024 Africa Health ExCon, while the International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA), remains the flagship annual event organised by the Africa CDC 1 2 3 ?, that reflects on the lessons learned in health and science across Africa . In the words of the Dr Francis O. , the DG of WAIPH,

"ExCon like CPHIA aligns with the way forward for the New Public Health Order and for Africa to create more resilient health systems and expand its health industry. The two events can bring together the best of Africa's minds alongside scientists, policymakers, and advocates from around the world to strengthen local, regional, and global collaboration and spotlight African science and innovation"

The Public Health segment, led by the Africa CDC , was a highlight of the conference, with WAIPH's fellows providing valuable insights and expertise. The leadership roundtable, which brought together prominent healthcare leaders, was another significant aspect of the conference, with WAIPH's participation helping to shape the agenda for healthcare in Africa.

The Health ExCon was a resounding success, and WAIPH's participation marked a significant milestone in the Institute's mission to improve public health in West Africa. The conference opened up new vistas of partnerships and collaborations, paving the way for a healthier and more prosperous Africa.

Africa Health Business Nicaise Ndembi Mohannad AL Nsour Tajudeen Raji Jean Philbert Nsengimana (FAPH, MPA, MBA, PMP, MSc) Dr. Nkem Femi-James Dr Ibrahima Socé Fall Wondimagegnehu Alemu Amos Bassi Salma Ibrahim Anas Dr. Ahmed Ogwell OUMA - FAPH Dr Nabhit Kapur -FAPH Liya Li Tonte Ibraye Melchior Aissi Muhammad Ali Pate Ifeoma Anagbogu Landry Tsague Dongmo, MD MPH PhD Leith Greenslade