World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has highlighted the importance of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in transforming healthcare delivery across Africa, saying innovation will be critical to building resilient and equitable health systems on the continent.
Delivering a virtual address at the GITEX Future Health Africa conference in Casablanca, Dr Ghebreyesus said recent cuts in international aid had disrupted healthcare delivery in many African countries, but also created an opportunity for nations to strengthen health sovereignty through strategic investments.
According to him, digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), could help African countries develop more efficient and sustainable healthcare systems if properly designed and deployed.
“Digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, are a powerful tool for building resilient, equitable, and efficient health systems. What matters most is how these tools are designed and deployed,” he said.
Dr Ghebreyesus stressed the importance of developing solutions that respond to real healthcare needs, protect sensitive health data, support health workers, and reinforce national institutions and regional cooperation.
He also commended Morocco for its leadership in healthcare innovation and its partnership with the WHO in advancing health development on the continent.
“We unite to build a healthier, safer, fair, and sovereign Africa,” he stated.
The inaugural conference brought together medical experts, scientists, digital innovators, policymakers, investors, and exhibitors from across the world to explore how technology can improve healthcare access, quality, and security in Africa.
The three-day event was organised by the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health (FM6SS), Morocco’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection, and KOAUN International under the high patronage of King Mohammed VI of Morocco.
Held on the theme “Digitising Africa’s healthcare future: Essential care advancing with AI,” the conference featured scientific sessions, specialised workshops, exhibitions, and innovation platforms focused on expanding the frontiers of healthcare delivery through technology.
The conference is expected to conclude on Wednesday with additional scientific discussions, commitments, and declarations aimed at shaping Africa’s future health systems.
Source: GNA
