AFRICAN health ministers adopted the updated Regional strategy for the management of environmental determinants of human health in the African Region 2022–32 , according to an official statement.
Nearly a quarter of all deaths in Africa are reportedly due to environmental causes, including the impacts of climate change, the ministers acknowledged in the document. They adopted it at the 72nd session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa in Lomé, Togo.
The new strategy for 2022-32 provides guidance to member States on addressing health and environment linkages for achieving sustainable development goals.
It has been designed to promote synergies and coordination between the health and environment sectors recognised by the Libreville Declaration, 2008.
The strategy adopted includes key milestones till 2027 and targets. It has also integrated recommendations from the WHO manifesto for a healthy recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
At least 30 member States should have developed their national framework for water safety plans by 2027, according to the plan. In view of climate impacts, at least 30 member states would have their health national adaptation plans. In addition, health dimension would be included in nationally determined contributions of all the member states by 2027, the document mentioned. – Down to Earth
