WAHO: Stronger Regional Cooperation Vital to Safeguard West Africa’s Health

The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) celebrated its 39th anniversary by issuing a strong call for enhanced regional cooperation, sustainable financing, technological innovation, and preparedness against emerging health threats. In a significant statement, WAHO Director-General Dr. Melchior Aïssi reflected on nearly four decades of collaborative health efforts within the ECOWAS region and presented an ambitious plan to address pressing health issues.

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the future of healthcare in the ECOWAS region hinges on stronger regional cooperation, sustainable financing, technological innovation and preparedness against emerging health threats.

Founded in 1987, WAHO's mission is to coordinate regional responses to health emergencies, harmonize health policies, and strengthen healthcare systems. Dr. Aïssi noted that the organization has persevered through evolving political and institutional landscapes, marking the anniversary as particularly meaningful as it coincides with the end of his tenure. He acknowledged the collective commitment from ECOWAS institutions, member states, and development partners in overcoming numerous challenges and achieving significant milestones.

Recent initiatives highlighted by Dr. Aïssi include efforts to bolster national health systems, encourage exclusive breastfeeding, mobilize domestic resources for healthcare financing, and implement the regional community health policy. A major achievement was the adoption of critical regional policy instruments at the 27th Assembly of ECOWAS Ministers of Health in Freetown, Sierra Leone. These include a Regional Framework for Malaria Elimination and the Freetown Charter on technology and data-driven reduction of maternal, neonatal, and infant mortality.

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the organisation had weathered numerous challenges while recording remarkable achievements through collective commitment by ECOWAS institutions, member states and development partners.

Dr. Aïssi expressed optimism, viewing these decisions as evidence of a growing resolve among ECOWAS member states to build more resilient, innovative, and equitable health systems. He also welcomed the renewed confidence shown by the ECOWAS Ministers of Health in WAHO's leadership and performance, underscoring the organization's vital role in safeguarding the health of millions across the sub-region.

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evidence of a growing determination among ECOWAS member states to build more resilient, innovative and equitable health systems capable of delivering quality healthcare to millions across the sub-region.