The WHO emphasized that investing in healthcare workers is a health priority and a smart strategy for Africa’s future.
On Wednesday, African health ministers adopted a plan in Addis Ababa to train, employ, and retain three million health workers by 2035, aiming to strengthen health systems and ensure universal access.
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Mohamed Yakub Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized at the 76th session of the Regional Committee that the African Health Workforce Agenda 2026-2035 seeks not only to train professionals but also to create conditions that allow them to serve in the most underserved areas.
The initiative aims to improve planning, education, employment, and retention, addressing the paradox that, despite hospital shortages, one million trained professionals remain unemployed, particularly recent graduates.
Closing this gap would require an additional investment of between US$4 and US$6 per person annually, with economic and social benefits: every dollar invested can generate up to ten dollars in return.
Over the past year, @WHOAFRO continued to work closely with countries to tackle public health emergencies, expand essential health services and reinforce health system preparedness amid a rapidly changing health financing landscape. From outbreak response to primary health care,… pic.twitter.com/35VR82SHx7
— WHO African Region (@WHOAFRO) August 25, 2026
The WHO emphasized that investing in healthcare workers is a health priority and a smart strategy for Africa’s future. This commitment comes amid a growing exodus of professionals to the Global North, driven by a lack of resources and poor working conditions.
The meeting is being held amid cuts in international aid imposed by the United States and European countries, which have jeopardized the health of millions of people in Africa.
The Workforce Agenda builds on the foundation laid by the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter, reaffirming Member States’ commitment to invest in the health workforce.
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Source: EFE – WHO
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