Prof. Nicklaus Labhardt of the University of Basel has called for the institutionalisation and financing of Community Health Workers responding to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) to improve access to chronic care and accelerate the attainment of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in rural Africa.

Prof. Labhardt said the growing burden of non-communicable diseases requires innovative and affordable service delivery models.

Ms. Evaline Kibuchi, Africa Regional Director for the Global Tuberculosis Caucus, has called for gender-responsive policies and increased financing to accelerate the End TB campaign in Africa.

Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Rt Hon Dr Nelly B.K. Mutti, SC, MP, FAPRA says sustainable and accountable health financing is key to attaining Universal Health Coverage in the African region

Dr Mutti noted that investment in health infrastructure, the workforce, innovation and emergency preparedness is more cost-effective than reactionary spending. 

She added that strong and equitable health systems are also essential for national development and stability.