In sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean, health systems face similar challenges, including the burden of disease, pharmaceutical dependence and climate vulnerability. Despite different contexts, both regions are seeking to strengthen health resilience and improve access to healthcare. This dynamic is now driving the development of new partnerships.
Sub-Saharan Africa continues to face a heavy health burden. According to the World Health Organization, the region accounts for nearly 25% of the global disease burden while representing around 18% of the world’s population. Malaria, HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis continue to weigh heavily on the region, while nearly 70% of maternal deaths recorded worldwide occur there. Visual impairment and blindness are also major public health challenges.
Around the world, and particularly in Nigeria, millions of people suffer from blindness and visual impairment. This situation affects not only those directly concerned, but also hampers economic growth and the development of societies.
Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare – Nigeria
In the Caribbean, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and obesity are among the leading causes of death. According to the Pan American Health Organization, deaths related to non-communicable diseases exceeded 600 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021. The impacts of climate change are further exacerbating the vulnerabilities of small island states, while investments in health are increasingly seen as a driver of economic and social development.
Studies have shown that for every US dollar invested in eye care worldwide, the returns are considerable in terms of preventing vision loss, improving quality of life, strengthening health systems and increasing productivity.
Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare – Nigeria
Beyond disease, access to medicines and the financing of health systems are common challenges. Africa still imports between 70% and 80% of its pharmaceutical products, while Caribbean countries remain heavily dependent on international supply chains. Shortages of healthcare workers, high treatment costs and limited medical infrastructure also continue to hamper progress.
We will have established sustainable mechanisms and innovations in sustainable financing, while developing partnerships with various stakeholders. These three elements are inseparable: we need to work together, ensure the sustainability of our actions and have the necessary resources. The mechanisms we are developing are based above all on innovation and strengthening resilience.
Dr Lisa Indar, Director General, CARPHA – Trinidad and Tobago
Faced with these shared vulnerabilities, sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean are turning to greater cooperation to strengthen health resilience. Developing innovative financing mechanisms, expanding partnerships and securing supplies are among the priorities shared by both regions. In this context, Afreximbank’s commitment of five billion US dollars to CARICOM countries illustrates the determination to strengthen health sovereignty and improve access to more affordable healthcare in both regions.
