Dakhla: Speaking at a panel discussion on organizational models and governance of health systems, experts and health professionals emphasized that the overhaul of African health systems requires strengthened primary care, restructured governance, sustainable skills, and an equity-based approach.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Alex Riolexus Ario, an associate professor of infectious disease epidemiology in Uganda, noted that primary care and community health are the backbone of health systems in Africa, particularly in rural areas. He pointed out that countries that have invested in this essential area, such as Ethiopia, Uganda, and Morocco, have made significant progress in reducing maternal and infant mortality through prevention, proximity, and early detection.

However, he emphasized that major challenges remain, citing lack of funding, a lack of human resources, and fragile infrastructure, urging African decision-makers to show strong political will to strengthen the first link in the health system.

For his part, Ahmed Bennana, Director General of the Mohammed VI International University Hospital in Rabat, presented the transformation of the Moroccan healthcare system, driven by framework law 06-22, which marks a break with ad hoc reforms in favor of a comprehensive overhaul centered on regional healthcare groups, an expanded range of services, and a clear strategy of healthcare sovereignty.

Addressing the issue of the fight against cancer, Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Science and Applications at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), explained that the main obstacle is not only the lack of equipment, but also the shortage of trained personnel to operate and maintain the equipment, which leads to frequent breakdowns and delayed diagnoses.

Speaking on the issue of equity, Professor of Visceral Cancer Surgery and breast cancer specialist Rajaa Aghzadi, emphasized that no health reform can succeed without social justice, pointing out that women remain the primary victims of unequal access to healthcare in Africa, whether in terms of high maternal mortality, cultural barriers, or insufficient screening, particularly for female cancers.

The first African Summit on Health Systems and Health Sovereignty began its work on Friday in Dakhla, with nearly 200 African experts attending in person and 1,000 participants joining remotely. Initiated by the Mohammed VI Foundation for Science and Health (FM6SS), this Summit is part of the momentum generated by His Majesty King Mohammed VI in favor of African health sovereignty based on innovation, cooperation, and capacity building.