WFSA joined the 74th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa (RC74) statement on agenda item 12
Agenda item 12: an innovative approach to strengthening the global architecture for health emergency preparedness and response in the WHO African Region
The World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) emphasise the urgent need to strengthen the anaesthesia workforce to enhance our regions health emergency preparedness and response.
As we saw during COVID countries across Africa faced severe challenges due to a shortage of skilled anaesthesia providers, critical in managing severe respiratory cases and critical care.
Countries with robust anaesthesia services demonstrated better outcomes in patient management and lower mortality rates. Strengthening the anaesthesia workforce through targeted training, resources, and infrastructure is essential for improving surgical and emergency care.
WFSA urge stakeholders to prioritize the development of a resilient anaesthesia workforce, ensuring safer surgical outcomes and a more robust health system prepared for future emergencies.
The statement was delivered by Prof. Elizabeth Ogboli Nwasor, Head of WFSA Delegation
