The World Bank forecasts the creation of over 2 million jobs in West and Central Africa's health sector through a new regional investment strategy. This initiative aims to address a critical shortage of healthcare personnel across the region. The comprehensive strategy additionally targets providing quality and affordable health services to at least 200 million people by 2030.
This initiative responds to growing fiscal pressures, rising debt servicing costs, and shrinking external financing flows impacting regional governments. Demographic trends are also increasing the demand for healthcare and social infrastructure. World Bank officials announced this plan at the 'Fit to Prosper' Regional Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy launch in Accra.
This development aligns with Ghana's broader economic and social development goals, particularly the 'Accra Reset' agenda focused on national ownership. Weak health outcomes in West and Central Africa pose significant macroeconomic risks. High maternal and child mortality rates, widespread malnutrition, and persistent disease burdens constrain productivity and labour market outcomes. The Bank highlights that adults receiving nutritional support as children can earn up to 46% more over their lifetimes. Investments in health therefore generate economic returns beyond the sector itself, boosting overall national income.
Mamta Murthi, World Bank Group Vice President for People, stated, "By addressing health worker shortages, the region can create more than 2 million jobs." She emphasised the economic benefits of such investments for the wider economy. The Bank's data shows West and Central Africa account for 33% of global child deaths and 44% of maternal deaths. Nearly 60% of malaria-related deaths also occur in this region, with one-third of children under five suffering from stunting. These figures underscore the urgent need for health sector reforms.
The regional strategy prioritises strengthening frontline primary healthcare systems and improving the efficiency of health financing. It also focuses on building resilience against disease outbreaks and climate-related shocks. Ghana will be among the first countries to implement a new financing approach through a government-led Universal Health Coverage Compact. This compact will align domestic resources, concessional financing, and donor support under a single national framework. Julius Debrah, Ghana's Chief of Staff, affirmed this compact as a new approach to development, empowering countries to shape their future. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh added that Ghana's reforms will improve financing efficiency. These changes aim to reduce household healthcare costs through measures like uncapping the National Health Insurance Levy. The government is also establishing a Free Primary Healthcare initiative and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.
This World Bank initiative highlights the importance of coordinated financing frameworks and stronger domestic resource mobilisation. These are crucial as external funding conditions tighten and demand for healthcare services accelerates. The region's population is projected to expand significantly through 2050, further increasing healthcare needs. Robert Taliercio, World Bank Division Director, noted Ghana's progress in health financing and childhood nutrition. This positions Ghana among few countries in the region with the potential to achieve a demographic dividend, a period of economic growth due to changes in population age structure. However, significant implementation risks persist, including weak budget execution and infrastructure deficits. Health spending across West and Central Africa averages only about 1.5% of GDP, which is below peer regions, highlighting the funding gap that must be closed.