The University of Nairobi in collaboration with African Forum for Research and Education in Health (AFREhealth) hosted the 7th annual afrehealth symposium in Nairobi, Kenya. The event which was held from 6th to 8th August, 2024 attracted over 200 participants from 38 countries in Africa and beyond.
The event themed: Progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): celebrating milestones and overcoming challenges. The theme brought about robust discussions through panel discussions and abstract presentations by healthcare professionals from around the African continent. The carefully curated topics cut across education, technology, policy-making, and community development among other key pillars of health and SDGs achievements.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, Prof. Margret Hutchinson was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Enterprise. In her remarks made on her behalf by Prof. Mulaa, she commended AFREhealth for their efforts in bridging the gaps in universal health coverage, especially with the use of technology.
"In today’s rapidly changing world, technological advancements have the power to transform healthcare delivery and education. The possibilities of digital health tools, telemedicine, and online education platforms present us with remarkable opportunities," Prof. Hutchinson
In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 17 SDGs that aim at transforming the planet earth into a more sustainable space for the human race. Goal number 3-which was the focus during the symposium-targets good health and well-being of the people.
The 3-day long symposium allowed more than 30 speakers to share on their experiences of healthcare delivery in efforts to reach the SDG targets. The Keynote address by Dr. Marleen Temmerma dabbed "Why are so many mothers and babies dying?" was a great pacesetter for the discussions. With data from local Kenyan hospitals including Pumwani Hospital she expounded profoundly on the interventions that she and her team had put in place to reduce infant mortality.
Prof Nelson Sewankambo, the President of AFREhealth was very pleased by the success of the conference, not only by the huge number of participants, but also for the wonderful reports of positive impact to the African continent.
“AFREhealth should become a movement in Africa, where we transform healthcare in the African continent,” he said.
The conference was crowned by a colorful closing ceremony where a handing over ceremony of the AFREhealth governing council.
The Dean Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. George Osanjo expressed his deepest gratitude for the honor of hosting the 7th annual conference. He congratulated AFREhealth for the success that the event became.
Click here to see photos of the event.
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