Addressing the health workforce gap to achieve the Universal Health Coverage and "The Africa We Want"

Abstract

African countries face numerous obstacles to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). However, the continent has demonstrated a significant commitment to UHC, evident in the cornerstone incorporation of health in the African Union Agenda 2063. The existing health  workforce is insufficient and confronts various challenges as exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic prompting dedication to bolster its  capacity. To achieve this goal, innovative strategies should be implemented, including the introduction of new policies and interventions  to motivate health workers, encourage collaboration, and enhance production and retention rates. Which, in turn, contributes to achieving UHC and Sustainable Development Goal 3. This paper explores the challenges stemming from the health workforce in Africa  concerning the pursuit of UHC and provides key recommendations for capacity enhancement on the continent.