African visionaries and policymakers have emphasized that the continent’s destiny should be crafted through indigenous innovation and leadership, regardless of external financial support.
This message was central to a prominent side event titled “African-led Innovation: Shaping Sustainable Futures with or without Aid” held during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The event, co-organized by eHealth Africa, Population Services International (PSI), Population Council, and Reach Digital Health, featured panelists advocating for a fundamental transition from reliance on aid to self-determination in Africa’s development trajectory.
Guided by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Hon. Chernor Bah, the discussion convened a varied group of experts, including Dr. Ola Brown, founder of HealthCap Africa; Fara Ndiaye from Speak Up Africa; and Dr. Kemi DaSilva Ibru of Women at Risk International, among others.
“For many years, external aid has influenced Africa’s health, innovation, and development sectors, often sidelining African leadership. We are now entering a transformative period where African creativity and solutions take center stage,” Bah remarked.
Atef Fawaz, Executive Director of eHealth Africa, noted that several African governments are increasingly prioritizing innovation, particularly in health technologies, and expressed confidence that Africa will rank among the top 10 to 20 emerging markets within the next twenty years.
He clarified that the phrase “with or without aid” does not imply rejecting collaboration but rather reshaping it.
“The goal is not to receive off-the-shelf solutions from outside but to collaboratively develop sustainable innovations. Africa possesses the ideas, expertise, and talent; what is essential is partnership based on mutual strengths,” Fawaz explained.
Dr. Ola Brown highlighted the critical role of private investment in bridging Africa’s funding shortfalls. “Investing in healthcare innovation on the continent not only improves African health outcomes but contributes to global well-being,” she stated.
Michael Holscher from PSI emphasized the necessity of sustainability through local empowerment.
“Our initiatives have defined durations, but the real question is: what endures after we exit? Genuine sustainability depends on the commitment and ownership of local stakeholders,” he asserted.
Judith Bruce of the Population Council called for broader inclusivity in innovation efforts. “Frequently, ‘community’ voices are limited to a few elder men. But where are the adolescent girls and young women in these conversations?” she challenged.
The dialogue also spotlighted digital health, with Africa CDC’s Nsengimana urging the continent to replicate the transformative impact of fintech innovations. “Just as M-PESA revolutionized access to financial services, we need a similar breakthrough in health technology,” he urged.
Debbie Rogers from Reach Digital Health highlighted the power of designing solutions centered on users’ needs. “Constraints often spark innovation. In Africa, these challenges don’t hinder us; they propel us forward,” she said, referencing South Africa’s MomConnect program, which has successfully engaged five million women.
Representatives from eHealth Africa underscored Africa’s evolving role from a passive recipient to an active leader in global dialogues. “This is a moment not only to participate but to lead global conversations. Increased visibility translates into greater influence, and Africa is now shaping international agendas,” noted Ota Akhigbe, Director of Partnerships and Programs at eHealth Africa.
