Health: Strengthening Systems and Fostering Qualification of the Workforce | EurAfrican Forum 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of countries having strong, modern, and capable health systems and services. But it has also exposed the inequalities that remain between those who have the resources to invest in healthcare and those who do not. It is therefore vital to deepen relations between Europe and Africa to reduce these inequalities and so that the African continent can benefit from the growing modernization of European healthcare systems.
Whether in health technologies, medication, or vaccines, or in the training of health professionals, Europe has enough expertise to be in a position where it can share this knowledge with African countries, thereby collaborating towards building truly empowered health systems and diversifying access to quality healthcare.
Europe is deeply committed to this need to share knowledge and experience, just as Africa recognizes the benefits of investing in closer collaboration in this field.
In an increasingly globalised world, health issues can no longer be confined to just a few territories - a fact made clear by the Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, opportunities such as the African Union or the African Continental Free Trade Area will be more successful if the African health systems are stronger and modern.
Panel Members:
- Conceição Calhau, Professor, NOVA Medical School - Faculty of Medical Sciences, Portugal
- Hans Martens, President, European Association for Value Based Health Care, Belgium
- Marie-Ange Saraka-Yao, Chief Resource Mobilisation & Growth Officer, GAVI, Switzerland
- Rui Meireles, Director Health, Life & Employee Benefits, MDS, Portugal
Moderator: Mafalda Avelar, Journalist, Portugal