The 2026 Africa Press Day has commenced in Nairobi, spotlighting the urgent need for African countries to invest in women’s health as a cornerstone for economic development and health sovereignty. The two-day forum brings together policymakers, healthcare experts, civil society actors, and financial institutions, including participants from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Algeria, Tanzania, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Under the theme, “Health is Wealth,” discussions focus on how robust health systems, particularly those addressing women’s cancers, can generate substantial economic returns. Studies presented at the forum indicate that every US$1 invested in innovative cancer care can yield up to US$12.40 through improved productivity and longer working lives, while early health interventions can return more than 14 times the initial investment.
Ms Jacqueline Wambua, General Manager for East Africa at Roche Kenya, highlighted the demographic strength of Africa, noting that the continent now houses one in every four people globally and hosts the largest working-age population. “A healthy population drives productivity and economic growth. Women, as the backbone of households and communities, must be at the centre of national health planning,” she said.
The forum also emphasizes the role of media in amplifying narratives that influence health policy and investment, particularly in combating misinformation and improving awareness of prevention, screening, and treatment options.
Dr Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services at Kenya’s Ministry of Health, underscored the need for resilient and solution-driven health systems that withstand funding shortages and pandemics, while Ms Dorothy Nyong’o, Managing Trustee of the Africa Cancer Foundation, called for scaling up interventions targeting cervical and breast cancers, which remain the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among African women.
The forum includes a practical demonstration of the EMPOWER digital health platform at Mbagathi County Hospital, which monitors women diagnosed with cancer to ensure timely care and treatment.
Organizers stressed that strategic investments in women’s health not only save lives but also strengthen households, communities, and national economies, highlighting the interconnection between healthcare and wealth creation across Africa.
