Basic infrastructure challenges also persist, with 38% of healthcare facilities lacking access to an improved water source and 19% without proper sanitation systems. Furthermore, 35% of facilities do not have soap and water for handwashing, making infection prevention and control a major struggle, especially in outbreak-prone areas.

The need for pandemic preparedness has never been more urgent. With 123 million euros invested in the Team Europe initiative “Sustainable Health Security,” collaborative efforts between the Africa CDC and European CDC aim to strengthen disease surveillance, response strategies, and a One Health approach. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the necessity of innovative technologies, real-time data tracking, and robust healthcare frameworks to mitigate future threats.

In many low-income countries, the financial burden of healthcare remains high, with out-of-pocket payments accounting for nearly 40% of total health expenditures. Expanding access to affordable health insurance and alternative financing solutions is critical to ensuring that no one is denied essential medical care due to financial constraints.

Moreover, energy reliability remains a significant barrier, with approximately 1 billion people relying on healthcare facilities with no electricity or an unstable power supply. Without a dependable energy source, refrigeration of vaccines and medicines, operation of life-saving medical equipment, and even basic procedures like surgeries and digital record-keeping become nearly impossible.

Addressing these challenges requires a holistic and technology-driven approach, fostering innovation in healthcare delivery, diagnostics, workforce development, infrastructure, and financing. By investing in sustainable health solutions, we can bridge the gap in medical access, strengthen global health security, and improve the well-being of underserved communities worldwide.