Hundreds of healthcare professionals, government officials, and private sector operators from across Africa and the globe converged in Cairo for a landmark conference focused on the education, training, and retention of African health professionals.

The conference, held from June 4th to 6th, brought together stakeholders to discuss the critical issues facing the African healthcare workforce.

Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, former Minister of Education in Ghana and Chairman of the Africa Education Trust Fund (AETF) delivered a keynote address highlighting the need for strategic investment in quality education to transform African economies.

"The AETF is committed to supporting science and healthcare education to bridge the gap in Africa's healthcare landscape... Africa's healthcare sector requires a robust workforce to address the continent's unique challenges," Dr. Spio-Garbrah charged

To meet the targets set by the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the SDGs 2030, the former Ghanaian Diplomat stresses that a strategic intervention in the educational sector is essential.

Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah explained this encompasses a range of educational levels, from early childhood to tertiary education, as well as vocational and technical training, and various forms of specialized learning.

The Africa Health Excon conference tackled key challenges facing the continent's healthcare system, aligning with its theme "Africa's Journey to the New Public Health Order: Bridging the Gap."

This significant event was supported by a coalition of prominent organizations, including the Egyptian government, the African Union Commission's Centre for Disease Control, and leading pharmaceutical companies.

The conference also featured panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for delegates to share best practices and explore innovative solutions. Key themes included the African Union's Agenda 2063, SDG 2030, and the New Public Health Order.

The event was sponsored by the Egyptian government, the African Union Commission's Centre for Disease Control, and major pharmaceutical companies.

The conference aimed to foster collaboration and mobilize support for the development of Africa's healthcare workforce.

Delegates departed Cairo with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to working together to strengthen Africa's healthcare sector through education, training, and retention of healthcare professionals.