Africa Is Losing Health Workers When It Can Least Afford to - a Pattern Rooted in Colonial History

Africa is facing a health worker shortage, with an estimated shortfall of 5 to 6 million workers by 2030. In 2022, only four African countries had a ratio of more than 4.45 health professionals per 1,000 people, while several countries like Madagascar and Chad reported less than 0.5. This situation complicates the delivery of basic services and achieving universal health coverage.