The West African College of Physicians has advised its new inductees to remain in their countries and contribute to the development of the health sector, rather than migrating to other nations.
Dr Rose Macauley, the outgoing President of the college from Liberia, emphasised this point at the college’s 48th Annual General Scientific Meeting (AGSM) in Abuja on Monday (yesterday, October 28).
According to Macauley, West Africa is where the inductees were trained, and it is essential for them to give back to their society.
She stressed that the college encourages its members to contribute to their communities, rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Macauley highlighted the need for governments to address the challenges facing the health sector, including: the migration of doctors from the Africa region which he described as a significant problem.
She added that inadequate supply of equipment are hindering doctors’ ability to practice.
Macauley said that addressing doctors’ personal issues is crucial for their retention.
“The college has outlined these challenges and empowered its members to make recommendations to governments,” she was quoted by the News Agency of Nigeria as saying.
Dr Mamadou Mourtalla, President Elect from Senegal, also emphasised the need for governments to fund doctor-training, provide equipment, and foster commitment.
Earlier, Nigeria’s Health Minister and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, discussed the various transitions affecting West Africa, including political transition and rapid urbanisation, exemplified by Nigeria.
He added emergence of infectious diseases, changing economies, increasing uncertainty and rainfall patterns bringing diseases like cholera, as part of the various transitions affecting West Africa.
Pate, therefore, called for increased collaboration among West African countries to tackle these challenges and invest in infrastructure.
