Liberia: WHO Africa Chief Janabi Urges Science-Led Investment, Security Plans and Modernization for Resilient Health Future - FrontPageAfrica

Brazzaville, DR Congo– World Health Organization’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi,  has called for a renewed commitment to science, innovation and domestic investment as the foundation for health security and sustainable development across the continent.  

By Jaheim Tumu-jaheim.tumu@frontpageafrica.com

Delivering his message on World Health Day on  April 7, which was observed under  the Theme: “Together for Health. Stand with Science,” Janabi said that “longer lives, effective prevention and life-saving treatments we value today are the result of decades of scientific progress.”  

Janabi underscored Africa’s contributions to global health solutions, citing the rapid development and deployment of Ebola vaccines during outbreaks in West and Central Africa. “The rapid development and deployment of Ebola vaccines demonstrated the power of research rooted in local partnerships,” he said.  

He also highlighted South Africa’s genomic sequencing work, which enabled early identification of new COVID-19 variants. “Genomic sequencing in South Africa informed global responses,” Janabi noted, adding that WHO-supported mRNA vaccine technology transfer hubs are now “paving the way for Africa to produce its own vaccines.”  

Across the region, evidence-based public health efforts have transformed outcomes. Expanded immunization campaigns have protected millions from preventable diseases, while antiretroviral therapy has turned HIV from a fatal diagnosis into a manageable condition.

Janabi said, “Investments in maternal and child health have significantly reduced deaths among mothers and newborns.”

Yet he cautioned that Africa still faces “a complex web of challenges: persistent diseases, emerging health threats and strained health systems. None of these can be solved alone. They demand that across governments, disciplines and communities, we act together.”  

Janabi indicated the One Health framework as a model for coordinated action across sectors.

“The One Health approach reflects this understanding. It promotes coordinated action across sectors to address threats ranging from animal-borne illnesses to environmental risks,” he said.  

Accordingly, he said progress has been notable: 46 countries including Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, Central Africa: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon  and others have developed National Action Plans for Health Security.

Moreover, every member state has a plan on antimicrobial resistance, and several countries have strengthened One Health platforms for integrated surveillance and response.  

But he warned that “funding for research and innovation remains limited, surveillance systems are uneven and early warning capacities must be strengthened.”  

WHO’s vision, Janabi explained, rests on four pillars: universal health, resilience, modernization and ownership.  

– Universal health: “To ensure everyone benefits from proven interventions.” Resilience: “Through strengthened systems that detect and respond to threats.”   Modernization: “That advances workforce capacity and digital innovation and ownership: “Which empowers African countries to lead, finance and sustain their health systems.”  

Janabi urged governments to increase domestic investment in science and research.  “On this World Health Day, we encourage African governments to increase domestic investment in science, research and innovation as a foundation for health security and sustainable development,” he said.  

He also called on international partners to strengthen support for African-led science, foster equitable partnerships and expand access to technologies and knowledge.

“Science should be as unrestricted as the health threats we face. A breakthrough that is not accessible to those who need it most remains unfinished work,” Janabi said.  

Despite progress, Janabi further warned  that without stronger investment, Africa risks falling behind in preparedness. Surveillance systems remain uneven, and early warning capacities are fragile.

“Our shared challenge is clear: we must invest in innovation and ensure equitable access to its benefits,” he said.  The appeal reflects growing concern that while Africa has demonstrated scientific leadership, funding gaps and inequities in access to technology could undermine resilience.  

He emphasized that African innovation is not only solving local problems but shaping global solutions.  “When African innovation is fully supported and connected to global efforts, all of humanity benefits,” he said.  

Janabi added,  “Through science and solidarity, we can build a healthier, safer future for all.”