Foreword by the Assistant Regional Director
Dr Lindiwe Makubalo
WHO Assistant Regional Director for Africa
The Atlas 2022 outline is informed by the framework of actions for health system strengthening towards universal health coverage and the health-related SDGs. It consists of seven compact sections that allow to (i) track the targets of the international agendas: Sustainable Development Goals and WHO Triple Billion targets and (ii) measure the situation of the region in relation to the components of the framework of action from Inputs to Impact.
The Atlas of African Health Statistics remains the most comprehensive tool to monitor the health situation in the African Region, provide up-to-date information on the state of health in countries, and serve as a baseline for monitoring progress on internationally agreed targets. The report shows overall increases in life expectancy and healthy life expectancy over the last 20 years, as a result of progress in many health areas including maternal health. However, the Region is still facing the triple burden of communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases and violence.
“The report shows overall increases in life expectancy and healthy life expectancy over the last 20 years, as a result of progress in many health areas including maternal health. However, the Region is still facing the triple burden of communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases and violence.”
First available evidence shows that the COVID–19 pandemic has slowed the progress for some SDG targets which mean more efforts and interventions to get back on track. This Atlas offers the opportunity to have a deeper look on country situation and learn from those who are doing good in certain areas.
Some sub sections of the Atlas use data that is not recent or up to date, which means that it is urgent and important to invest in data systems if we want to have quality evidence for decision making. This is a collective effort involving all stakeholders at national, regional and global level. The WHO Regional Office for Africa is committed to working with all partners to support countries to produce quality data. Framework for health systems development towards UHC in the context of SDGs
