At the 38th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, urged African nations to strengthen domestic health financing to ensure
equitable healthcare access.
Speaking at a High-Level Meeting on Domestic Health Financing, organized by Rwandan President, Paul Kagame, she emphasized that Africa’s economic stability hinges on a “robust healthcare system.”
Mrs. Tinubu emphasized the financial pressures facing healthcare systems, especially as changes in global policies influence donor support. She remarked, “Africa cannot depend entirely on donor funding and foreign aid, which, while beneficial, tend to be unreliable and not sustainable.” She urged the need for creative financing solutions that address Africa’s specific challenges, such as broadening health insurance coverage and considering health endowment funds.
Addressing the shortcomings in healthcare funding, she called for stronger government commitment and urged African leaders to adopt the Abuja Declaration, which advises that at least 15% of national budgets be allocated to healthcare. “It is essential for our governments to dedicate a minimum of 15 per cent of their budgets to health,” she emphasized, noting that higher national health expenditures are vital for tackling the continent’s issues.
She highlighted the importance of first ladies in mobilizing resources, referencing her work as the Global and National Stop TB Champion. She urged the formation of partnerships with the private sector and investments from the African diaspora to enhance healthcare financing.
In addition to financial support, she highlighted the necessity of accountability and transparency in health expenditures. “Resources designated for health must be utilized efficiently and effectively,” she remarked, emphasizing that poor management hinders advancements in healthcare services.
The gathering, which included leaders from Rwanda, Ethiopia, Botswana, Kenya, Senegal, Zimbabwe, and Barbados, emphasized the critical need for locally developed solutions. Conversations centered around research, advancements in medical technology, and enhancements to the workforce, highlighting Africa’s dedication to minimizing reliance on external assistance and establishing sustainable healthcare systems.
