How can Africa prioritize its healthcare expenditure?

Africa continues to face significant challenges in the healthcare sector, with per capita healthcare expenditure remaining one of the lowest in the world. Despite notable improvements in the sector, gaps in healthcare financing and health outcomes persist and continue to widen. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, the Global CEO of Amref International, shed light on the pressing need for Africa to prioritize its health systems. Dr. Gitahi highlighted the inadequacy of healthcare financing in Africa, emphasizing the crucial need for increased investment in primary healthcare services. According to estimates by WHO and the World Bank, individuals require approximately $86 to $100 per capita to access basic essential services at the primary healthcare level. In stark contrast, countries in Europe spend up to $4,000 per capita, and in the US, the figure soars to $5,000 per capita, with government expenditure reaching a staggering $10,000 per capita. In Africa, the per capita healthcare expenditure stands at a mere $76, with only $35 coming from the government, leaving individuals to cover the rest out of pocket. This severely limits access to healthcare services and impedes investment in public health infrastructure, resulting in poorer health outcomes and ultimately higher costs for treatment. Dr. Gitahi pointed out that the lack of adequate funding leads to delayed diagnoses and exacerbates the burden of diseases like cancer, where 75% of cases are diagnosed at later stages due to limited access to healthcare. He emphasized the importance of preventive and early diagnostic services, which could be more cost-effective if properly funded. Despite the Abuja declarations urging African nations to commit to allocating 15% of their GDP to healthcare, persistent challenges remain in meeting this target. Dr. Gitahi highlighted macroeconomic issues affecting the continent, including low tax collection rates and a disproportionate burden of population growth. The continent contributes less than 3% of the global GDP while accommodating 17% of the global population, underscoring the need for structural economic reforms to enhance healthcare financing. He stressed the interconnectedness of healthcare with education, sanitation, and economic development, noting that investments in these areas are vital for a robust health system. While progress has been made in tackling communicable diseases like HIV, malaria, pneumonia, and tuberculosis, achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 - good health and well-being - remains a distant goal. Universal health coverage, accessible essential services, affordability for all, and equitable distribution of healthcare remain elusive targets in Africa. Dr. Gitahi emphasized the urgent need to address rising non-communicable diseases, reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures, and enhance preventive measures to curb increasing poverty levels linked to healthcare costs. He outlined key areas of focus, including family planning, women's reproductive health, nutrition for children, prevention of non-communicable diseases, and access to prompt diagnosis and treatment. Collaboration, efficiency, technology, and gender equality were identified as critical elements for driving investment in the healthcare sector. Dr. Gitahi stressed the importance of regional collaboration, sharing best practices, prioritizing primary healthcare, leveraging technology, and investing in women and girls to strengthen the health system in Africa. By addressing these challenges and fostering a collaborative and innovative approach, Africa can pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of its population.