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The West African Private Health Federation (WAPHF), in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), successfully hosted the inaugural High-Level Policy Conference in Health. The conference brought together eight West African private health federations, uniting stakeholders to address critical challenges and foster collaboration in the region’s healthcare sector.
Themed “Advancing The Public Private Dialogue to achieve Universal Health Coverage in West Africa,” the conference took place from July 6th to 8th 2023 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The conference witnessed the participation of esteemed delegates, including the New Special Assistant on Health to the Newly Sworn-in President of Nigeria, Dr. Salma Anas. Dr. Salma emphasised the focus areas of the new administration, highlighting the significance of private sector engagement. This marked her first public appearance since assuming office, underscoring the importance of this conference.
Nigeria, being a key player in the region’s healthcare landscape, showcased its commitment to public-private partnerships in healthcare. Notable members of the Nigerian delegation included Prof. Mohammed Nasir Sambo CEO/DG of the Nigeria Health Insurance Authority, and Dr. Ben Nkechika, DG of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission. They both shared insights on the success of public-private partnerships at the primary healthcare level, emphasising its impact on healthcare delivery. Other’s Includes Dr Olumide Okunola, Health Specialist World Bank and Dr Uchechukwu Nwoku form the Federal Ministry of Health.
Dr. Pamela Ajayi, President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), shared the practical experience on the growth of HFN, supporting the government through advocacy, collaboration and enabling private sector engagement. She demonstrated positive outcomes and successful interventions highlighting how policy discussions can shape legislative agendas, and promote policies that facilitate private sector participation.
Njide Ndili, Vice President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, participated in a panel discussion commending the need for a Public Private dialogue, shedding light on the crucial role of the public sector in enabling policies that facilitate private sector participation. Ndili emphasised the importance of strategic purchasing, governance, and sustainability, acknowledging the private sector’s efficiency and its ability to support government initiatives towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
During her opening speech, Clare Omasteye, the President of the West Africa Private Health Federation, extended a warm welcome to Dr. Amit Thakker, the President of the Africa Healthcare Federation. The presence of Dr. Thakker at the conference signifies the importance of collaboration and cooperation between the West African federations and the broader African healthcare community. It highlights the shared goals and commitment to advancing healthcare standards, policies, and practices across the continent.
The West African Private Health Federation, alongside eight other federations, is embarking on a journey to sustainability (J2su), supported by USAID. This initiative aims to strengthen the health sector across the eight West African countries, fostering a resilient and efficient healthcare system.
Delegates from various West African federations present at the conference include Dr. Joseph BOGUIFO – President of the PSPSCI (Cote D’Ivoire Federation), Dr. Bocar Mamadou DAFF – Private Health Sector Alliance of Senegal, Dr. Hien Diedon Alain – President of the Federation of Actors in the Private Health Sector of Burkina Faso Dr. Nicole COOPER – President Liberia Private Health Sector Federation, Dr. Wisdom Amegbletor – President Ghana Private Health Sector Federation, Dr. Moise FIADJOE – President of the Private Sector Platform of Togo and Dr. Karamoko NIMAGA – President of the Private Health Sector Alliance of Mali.
The High-Level Policy Conference in Health serves as a milestone achievement, showcasing the commitment of the West African private health federations. By fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and highlighting successful models, the conference paves the way for a formidable health sector in the region, bringing us closer to the vision of Universal Health Coverage.
