Geneva — Global health leaders gathered in Geneva for the 78th World Health Assembly, focusing on how to prioritize key issues and make the most of limited resources in a challenging aid environment.
One of the main topics discussed was the health of women, children, and adolescents (WCAH). Leaders emphasized the urgent need to raise the profile of this issue in regional agendas.
At a side event co-hosted by the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH) and the Global Leaders Network for Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health (GLN), South African Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi called for stronger political will and cooperation between regions.
“There is an increasing role we can and must play regionally,” said Motsoaledi. “That is why we are proud to support the Global Leaders Network, which is led by President Ramaphosa and includes sitting heads of state, health ministers, and ambassadors. The GLN pushes for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for women, children, and adolescents.”
Despite global progress, major health disparities remain. In 2023, one in 15 children in Sub-Saharan Africa died before turning five. This rate is 14 times higher than in high-income countries and reflects a 20-year gap compared to the global average.
Adolescents in low- and middle-income countries still face major barriers to accessing sexual, reproductive, and mental health services.
Speaking on behalf of the 47 WHO African Region Member States, Angola addressed the WHA’s agenda on the Global Strategy for WCAH. The country highlighted the need for stronger regional responses and joint action.
“Although progress has been made, most maternal, newborn, and child deaths are still preventable,” the statement said. “We must work together to move forward while recognizing the setbacks.”
The statement also called for better health financing and more sustainable investment in national health systems.
To support regional cooperation, the Global Leaders Network, PATH, and PMNCH hosted a high-level dialogue with representatives from the European Union, the Asian Development Bank, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Africa CDC, and the G20. Oman also joined the discussions, represented by Sami Al-Farsi from its Ministry of Health.
Participants reaffirmed their support for WCAH through the Global Leaders Network. They stressed the need for strong political commitment, a life-course approach, and policies that focus on equity. They also called for continued momentum at both regional and global levels.
The Global Leaders Network for Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health is a Global South-led initiative. It brings together heads of state and government to promote high-level leadership and advance health and rights for women, children, and adolescents worldwide.
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