By Correspondent
Vice President Jane Ansah has urged Malawi and other African countries to invest more in health research and innovation to reduce dependence on medicines, research and healthcare solutions developed outside the continent.
Speaking at Kalipano Hotel in Dowa during the official opening of the second Global Association of Clinical Officer and Physician Associates (GACOPA) Southern Africa Conference and the Physician Assistants Union of Malawi (PAUM) Biannual Conference on Thursday, Ansah said countries in the SADC region must also create better working conditions for health workers.
Ansah at one of the pavilions
She said health workers face long working hours, pressure and psychological challenges, calling for stronger mental health support systems and adequate protective equipment.
Ansah encouraged conference delegates to use research, innovation and collaboration to develop practical solutions to healthcare challenges.
She said innovation does not always require expensive equipment, but can involve finding smarter ways of addressing existing problems.
The VP also stressed the importance of involving communities and healthcare facilities in research and innovation, while strengthening the healthcare workforce and improving access to medicines and medical equipment.
“We hear you, we see you for the good work you are doing,” Ansah told clinicians during an exclusive interview with local media.
She further highlighted the importance of disease prevention, citing malaria as an example where preventive measures can help reduce pressure on health systems.
Ansah then officially opened the two conferences and witnessed the handover of the GACOPA leadership from Zambia to Malawi.
She reminded the incoming leadership that the position comes with responsibility within the SADC bloc.
During the ceremony, the VP received an award recognising her leadership and contribution to inspiring women.
GACOPA also honoured Ansah for distinguished public service and leadership and for inspiring clinicians in Malawi and across Africa.
The event brought together health professionals, conference organisers and other delegates from the region.
