About the Global Health Sector.

Health/Global Health is one of the key sectors of practice for AEFID, as it reflects the organization’s commitment to promote international development, education, and advocacy for Africa and its people. AEFID recognizes that health is a fundamental human right and a prerequisite for social and economic development. AEFID also acknowledges the challenges and opportunities that Africa faces in the global health arena, such as the burden of infectious and non-communicable diseases, the impact of climate change and environmental degradation, the need for health system strengthening and universal health coverage, and the potential for innovation and collaboration.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa accounts for 17% of the world’s population, but 25% of the global disease burden. The continent suffers from a high prevalence of communicable diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases, as well as a rising incidence of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and mental disorders. These diseases are exacerbated by factors such as poverty, malnutrition, poor sanitation, lack of access to clean water, and weak health systems. Moreover, Africa is vulnerable to the effects of climate change and environmental degradation, which threaten to worsen the health situation and undermine the progress made in recent years.

However, Africa also has many opportunities to improve its health outcomes and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health. The continent has a young and dynamic population, a growing middle class, a vibrant civil society, and a rich cultural and natural heritage. Africa also has the potential to harness the power of innovation and technology, such as mobile health, telemedicine, digital health, and artificial intelligence, to address its health challenges and create solutions that are tailored to its context and needs. Furthermore, Africa can benefit from the increased collaboration and partnership among its countries, regions, and stakeholders, as well as with the international community, to share best practices, mobilize resources, and coordinate actions.

AEFID aims to address these issues by conducting and supporting research, education, and policy initiatives that are relevant, evidence-based, and context-specific. AEFID also strives to foster a diverse and inclusive culture that respects and celebrates the richness and diversity of Africa and its diaspora. AEFID believes that by working together, we can achieve equity in health for all people and empower Africa’s future.