Health as a political choice: building resilience and trust
People are more likely to follow advice and access health when they have trust. Being able to build this is a political process, requiring funding and cooperation
Health has become a critical political decision that requires constant commitment and smart action in our incredibly diverse and fast-changing world, particularly in Africa. Robust healthcare systems must be based on resilience and trust, which promote an atmosphere that puts residents’ well-being first and strengthens the pillars of sustainable development. Particularly in the dynamic field of global health, Africa has seen several difficulties that have highlighted the complex interplay between political choices and health outcomes. In particular, the Covid-19 pandemic has served as a reminder that health is a complex issue intricately entwined with political decisions and their far-reaching effects. It is impossible to exaggerate the unbreakable connection between political decision-making and health. Governments that acknowledge health as a basic human right and a driver of socio-economic development are better prepared to handle the intricate issues that frequently obstruct fair access to high-quality healthcare services. Through the adoption of a comprehensive strategy that integrates prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, policymakers may foster an atmosphere that fosters trust and resilience in the face of growing health risks.
The intersection of politics and health
A person’s ability to realise their fundamental right to health depends on their government’s political commitment and resolve. Political decisions have a particularly noticeable effect on health outcomes in Africa, where there are still significant differences in access to resources and services. Inadequate funding for healthcare facilities, a lack of resources and inefficient policymaking can prolong unhealthy patterns and impede the continent’s capacity to fortify itself against new dangers. For instance, in Cameroon, several medical facilities, including the Mamfe District Hospital, have burned down and others have been converted into military barracks as a result of the socio-political unrest in the country’s two English-speaking areas.
One of the most significant Sustainable Development Goals is the one on health and well-being – SDG 3. Achieving it will depend on governments’ political decisions and commitment to investing in health care, preventing disease, improving maternal and child health, and addressing the socio-economic determinants of health.
However, proactive political choices that put health first can be transformative. A country can strengthen its resilience against health crises and cultivate trust within its population by investing in robust and fair healthcare systems, efficient disease surveillance measures and well-crafted public health policies.
Building resilience through political action
In this context, resilience refers to a person’s, community’s or country’s ability to endure and bounce back from unfavourable health occurrences, whether they be environmental risks, chronic illnesses or infectious diseases. Building resilience in Africa requires a multimodal strategy that takes into account the political, social and economic spheres.
Governments need to place a high political priority on health, since it is essential to national development. Important elements in building resilience include investing in strong public health infrastructure, developing collaborations with international organisations and stakeholders, boosting healthcare worker capacity, and increasing health literacy.
Moreover, integrating traditional knowledge systems and interacting with local people might improve the acceptability and cultural relevance of health interventions, which will increase their effectiveness.
Building resilience and trust in Africa requires a diversified strategy because of the specific challenges posed by varied socio-cultural contexts and resource constraints. Resilience can be increased by the successful application of evidence-based policies and initiatives. Achieving equitable health outcomes requires addressing the social determinants of health, which include gender inequality, poverty, education, nutrition and sanitation.
Moreover, funding research and development can provide African countries with the information and resources they need to handle context-specific health issues. African countries can work together to develop customised solutions in line with local realities and coordinate responses to health emergencies by collaborating through joint efforts supported by organisations such as the World Health Organization, African Union and United Nations. These partnerships can also promote knowledge sharing, resource mobilisation, expertise and best practices.
Building trust through transparent governance
Conversely, trust is the cornerstone upon which successful health programmes are constructed and maintained. People are more inclined to adopt preventive measures, follow treatment plans and actively engage in public health programmes when they have faith in the honesty and skill of their healthcare systems. Building trust in the healthcare sector is essential to guaranteeing compliance with public health policies and encouraging health-seeking behaviour in Africa, where historical legacies of colonialism and socio-political upheavals have undermined faith in institutions.
Rebuilding trust can be greatly aided by transparent governance, which is defined by open communication, accountability and participatory decision-making. To prevent misinformation and promote a sense of shared responsibility, governments should place a high priority on communication that is both clear and consistent, especially during times of health crises.
Governments need to prioritise public awareness campaigns and offer potential remedies and preventive measures regarding potential rising health issues. They must encourage public participation in health policies and the battle against these health-related concerns. By utilising digital advancements and harnessing the power of technology, Africa has the potential to surpass conventional healthcare delivery paradigms and promote more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare solutions.
The gap between politicians and the public can be bridged through interacting with civil society organisations, community leaders and healthcare professionals. This would also ensure that initiatives are adapted to local contexts and in line with community needs. Investing in health literacy and public education can also enable people to hold authorities accountable and to make informed decisions about their health.
Decisions have impacts
Decisions about health are political and have significant impacts on the welfare of people, communities and countries. Addressing health issues in Africa requires a multifaceted strategy that acknowledges the close connection between political choices and health consequences. Politicians can create the conditions for a day when everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background or geography, has access to high-quality healthcare services, by emphasising health as a fundamental human right and a driver of sustainable development. Africa can realise its full potential and build a healthier, more prosperous future for all via cooperative efforts, evidence-based policymaking, inclusive government and a dedication to promoting resilience and trust.
