Boosting healthcare: Health minister, Swiss Ambassador review cooperation.

Ambassador Kohli, on her first official visit to the country, expressed enthusiasm about deepening health initiatives, particularly in maternal and child health, the training of health staff, and the need for joint efforts in the fight against cancer.

Discussions during the audience also covered several pressing global health issues, among them the discussions on the Pandemic Convention currently under negotiation at the World Health Organisation, WHO, which aims at strengthening global preparedness and response capabilities for future pandemics.

Speaking during the audience, Minister Manaouda said while some countries advocate immediate adoption and others favour delaying until 2027, Cameroon suggests a 2025 adoption for the Pandemic Convention.

He argued that “pandemics do not wait,” underscoring the importance of prompt but carefully planned action. He further noted that the upcoming WHO World Assembly in November will provide a valuable platform for more in-depth discussions.

The minister equally outlined some of the productive collaboration the country has carried out with WHO. He pointed at on-going projects targeting regions grappling with insecurity, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities worldwide. 

“With health, we can bring peace and social cohesion,” Dr Manaouda stated. The minister equally highlighted a project led by Swiss pharmaceutical giant, Roche, which aims at improving cancer diagnosis and care across the country.

He explained that as part of the project, Roche intends to provide advanced diagnostic tools and support the country’s existing treatment efforts.

The Minister noted that the country has already subsidised certain aspects of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, but the sustainability of Roche’s diagnostic project would need thorough assessment. 

If successful, the project, he said, could be incorporated into a larger partnership agreement between the two countries. Dr Manaouda also expressed Cameroon’s openness to facilitating the establishment of Swiss pharmaceutical companies within its borders.

On the issue of training of healthcare workers, Dr Manaouda noted that developing a competent and well-trained workforce is essential for enhancing the country’s healthcare services. 

He saluted Switzerland’s expertise and expressed interest in training partnerships, while requesting Switzerland’s support in sharing experience and resources in this area. 

He noted that these simulation centres will enable health professionals to build critical skills in a controlled environment. The ultimate goal, he said, is to equip the country with a highly skilled workforce that can meet the needs of the population and improve the overall quality of healthcare.

Enter Ambassador Kohli

Ambassador Kohli, on her part, expressed appreciation for Cameroon’s landscape, climate, and hospitality. She noted her particular interest in health issues, especially in the area of maternal and child health, where Switzerland has a long history of involvement. 

She equally expressed her commitment to enhancing health outcomes in Cameroon which aligns with her broader mission to foster strong ties between the two countries through initiatives that address pressing local and global challenges.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3288 of Tuesday November 12, 2024