Experts push for self-sustaining health systems at UK-Africa Summit

Global health experts, including Ugandans based in the United Kingdom (UK), have urged African governments to transition towards self-sustaining health systems.

They advocated shifting the focus from aid to global collaboration and knowledge-sharing to ultimately improve patient outcomes and transform local healthcare landscapes.

This call was made during the two-day 9th UK-Africa Health Summit, held at the Royal College of Physicians, London. The summit convened a diverse assembly of stakeholders, including representatives from the UK and African governments, global health organisations, the World Health Organisation (WHO), civil society, the private sector, and other donors.

Held from March 18–19, 2025, the summit aimed to strengthen partnerships and multi-stakeholder efforts to revolutionise health systems in Africa and the UK.

The UK's John Humphrey, trade commissioner for Africa at the UK Department for Business and Trade, delivered a keynote address as the chief guest, emphasising that the world has undergone a profound transformation, necessitating a shift in global cooperation and trade strategies.

Charles Ayume (holding a microphone) addresses delegates as Dr. Kyabayinze (2nd L) looks on. (Courtesy Photo)

He stressed the importance of looking beyond aid and advocated for global learning and action to improve patient care locally.

He stated: "The world has fundamentally changed. We should welcome the expansion of relationships between the UK and Africa based on trade, rather than aid, reinforcing equitable relationships that bring value to both." 

Humphrey reiterated the UK government's commitment to its partnership with Africa, referencing the development of a new Africa Strategy by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

He highlighted mutual benefits, noting that the UK's engagement with Africa offers health-related advantages, while Africa, in turn, stands to gain from the UK's healthcare model.

Building on the successes of previous years, the 2025 summit was framed within the broader ambitions of the UK government to restore trust and modernise its partnerships with African nations.

The event provided a platform to disseminate information about the UK's positions related to Africa to key stakeholders, amplifying opportunities for the deployment of soft power.

Dr Herbert Luswata, President of the Uganda Medical Association (UMA), raised concerns about unemployment and underemployment among doctors and nurses in Uganda.

Uganda's commitment to health system strengthening

Dr Daniel Kyabayinze, the director of public health at Uganda's health ministry, highlighted the need for strategic plans to address current global health funding challenges.

Dr Kyabayinze underscored Uganda's significant strides in addressing funding gaps and integrating health services across the sector. He acknowledged challenges such as disease burdens and the need for specialised health workforce training, emphasising the value of global health partnerships.

He also urged the Global North to rethink its contributions to reducing global health inequalities, focusing on areas such as research, visa policies, mutual respect, and adding value to Africa's resources.

Addressing the Ugandan diaspora, Dr Kyabayinze called for increased involvement in Uganda's developmental agenda. He expressed gratitude to Sir Nick for a generous donation of $1.5 million towards the Emergency Children's Surgical Hospital in Entebbe, a facility that will significantly benefit children across Uganda.

Reflecting on Uganda's resilience to shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, he stated: "Our nation's ability to adapt and persevere is a testament to our collective strength and commitment to health."

Uganda's health ministry received a commendation for its dedication to global health partnerships.

Dr Daniel Kyabayinze, the Director of Public Health at Uganda's Ministry of Health, highlighted the need for strategic plans to address current global health funding challenges.

Addressing workforce challenges

Dr Herbert Luswata, president of the Uganda Medical Association (UMA), raised concerns about unemployment and underemployment among doctors and nurses in Uganda.

Despite nine medical schools graduating approximately 1,500 medical personnel annually, including 230–300 specialists, the country's recruitment rate remains slow due to wage shortages. This has led to specialists seeking opportunities in the private sector or abroad.

Uganda faces a significant shortage of health workers, with a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:20,000—far from the WHO's recommended 1:1,000. Dr Luswata argued for special consideration to sign bilateral agreements, similar to Kenya, allowing health workers to work in developing countries where they are needed.

He emphasised that such agreements would address domestic wage shortages and healthcare financing challenges.

Highlighting collaborations, Dr Luswata mentioned ongoing work with the Royal College of Physicians to support Ugandan physicians aiming to work in the UK.

"This partnership seeks to facilitate their integration into the UK's National Health Service (NHS)," Luswata remarked. "By creating pathways for our health professionals abroad, we not only provide them with opportunities but also strengthen our global health footprint."

The 9th UK-Africa Health Summit underscored the critical importance of collaborative efforts in transforming health systems. By addressing workforce challenges, fostering equitable partnerships, and leveraging the strengths of both continents, the summit set a precedent for future engagements aimed at achieving health for all.

It also focused on five core themes crucial for improving health outcomes in Africa and globally, with reflections on the High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance, a critical issue that has been addressed in previous UN gatherings.