The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has convened a regional dialogue focusing on strengthening health financing strategies and integrating pandemic preparedness into its operations.
In a press statement dated Thursday March 13, 2025, SADC explained that the meeting held in Johannesburg, South Africa, brought together key stakeholders from across the SADC region, including government representatives, health experts, and development partners, to address the urgent need for robust and sustainable health financing mechanisms.
“The COVID-19 pandemic served as a wake-up call, highlighting the critical need for resilient health systems and adequate financing to effectively respond to public health emergencies,” said Ambassador Michael Oyugi.
“SADC is committed to enhancing its health financing strategy to ensure that our region is well-equipped to manage future health crises,” he added.
The dialogue focused on key priorities, including optimizing resource mobilization and allocation. Members addressed the need for attracting more funds to the health sector and identifying strategies to maximize the impact of existing health budgets and ensure efficient resource utilization.
In addition, the meeting focused on integrating pandemic preparedness and response (PPR) and surveillance financing.
The team explored ways of incorporating PPR and surveillance financing into the SADC Enhanced Framework of Action for Sustainable Health Financing.
At the same time, the committee discussed the need for fostering regional cooperation, strengthening collaboration and coordination among member states on health financing, PPR, surveillance, and other critical areas.
“This is the most opportune time for the private sector to responsibly and fully engage. We can build a more resilient and responsive health system for the SADC region,” added the representative.
The meeting is supported by the Gates Foundation, AUDA-NEPAD, SADC, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), Globesolute Corporation and other partners.
