WHO seeks youth input to shape Africa’s health strategy through 2035

The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively seeking input from young people to guide health policy development across Africa through 2035. Officials stress that the contributions of the continent's youth are vital for creating health systems that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.

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the consultation reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that young people are not only beneficiaries of health programmes but active partners in designing the continent’s future health agenda.

This call for participation was made at the Youth Consultative Forum on the WHO African Regional Strategic Plan 2026–2030 and Vision 2035, held in Abuja. The event convened government officials, UN agencies, civil society groups, and youth organizations to collect their perspectives on the future health agenda.

Pavel Ursu, WHO Representative in Nigeria, highlighted the organization's commitment to empowering young people not just as recipients of health programs but as active partners in designing Africa's health future. He noted that with over 60 percent of Africa's population under 25, this demographic represents a significant opportunity for improved health and economic outcomes if they are meaningfully included in decision-making processes.

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Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with more than 60 per cent of its people under 25, describing the demographic trend as a major opportunity to improve health and economic outcomes if young people are meaningfully involved in decision-making.

Ursu explained that the recommendations from this consultation will directly influence the WHO African Regional Strategic Plan 2026–2030 and Vision 2035. This strategy aims to foster a healthier, more resilient, and self-reliant Africa, aligning with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals. It also addresses key areas like universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, climate-resilient health systems, and sustainable financing.

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In Nigeria, where over 60 per cent of the population is under the age of 30, young people represent one of the country’s greatest assets and a powerful force for change.

The strategy development occurs as African nations grapple with ongoing challenges, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, health emergencies, climate-related risks, and persistent healthcare access inequalities. However, Ursu pointed to advancements in technology, innovation, and youth leadership as new avenues to strengthen health systems continent-wide. He encouraged participants to share ideas on health promotion, mental health, digital health, climate change impacts, and overall well-being.

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We are particularly interested in your perspectives because every voice matters in building a healthier Africa.