AFRICA AND THE POLITICS OF HEALTH Lack of economic development is one thing, the prevalence of diseases and short life expectancy is another thing; and , the hegemony of dictators and bad administration combined to deny the Africans good governance, transparency and human rights As the fear of Ebola continues to spread, what started as a health issue eroded into politics, I want to know; How much money is annually invested in the ministries of health in Africa? I am sure a review of the respective budgets of the fifty-four African nations would not impress most of us. If the figure is impressive here and there, then the next question would be; Where does the money go? Do they invest heavily in public education? Do they relate it to education at elementary and higher forms of learning? Do they connect the dots separating health education and formal and vocational education? These questions may look simplistic, but the bottom line is:” An Africa devoid of public health and good hygiene is an African doomed.” After struggling all these years with the threat of HIV AIDS, Africans are still on a ‘baby walk’ on how to take care of themselves during pressing moments like the Ebola virus. Any discourse on the politics of health is centered on how politics is related to health. Politicians should not fail to realize that the lives of their people will be jeopardized by the prevalence of diseases and all their labors for economic development and social changes in their countries would come to naught because of their lack of diligence and caution. Diligence is badly needed if the political leaders focus on what needs to be done, such as long term vision on health issues and the structures that will prevent any further disease such as Ebola virus. No leader can make political hay out of HIVAIDS or Ebola. Instead of acting as if it is not a serious problem in Africa, African leaders should take a head-on approach to successful manage any outbreak of disease in the future. What the Ebola has demonstrated to the politicians is not to fall prey to the deception of making political hay over this disease at a time when logic urges us to focus on health and medical solutions immediately. Not on politics, but more cooperation to get rid of the virus. No diseases, no politics at this time A vibrant politics as well as vibrant structured health care system is needed in Africa, Reform health care systems nationwide, train health care workers and establish accessible health care centers. Governments should increase trust among medical teams, local officials and the public, starting from grassroots education. Fear is not a solution rather it adds to isolation, Ebola should be understood and find lasting cure once and for all.
Posted on: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 23:11:28 +0000
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