Kigali, Rwanda, is hosting a landmark continental engagement bringing together policymakers, educators, and health professionals to advance the training and development of nurses and midwives across Africa, in a move seen as a major step toward stronger and more resilient health systems.
The three-day forum, taking place from May 6 to 8 in Kigali, marks the first Continental Health Workforce Strengthening and Harmonization of Regional Nursing and Midwifery Curricula Engagement for the Global South Community. The gathering aims to align education standards, enhance professional competencies, and foster collaboration across countries.
Representing the Minister of Education at the official opening, Dr. Edouard Kadozi, Director General of the Higher Education Council, underscored the vital role of high-quality, harmonized curricula in building an effective health workforce. He noted that a well-trained and supported nursing and midwifery workforce remains at the heart of Africa’s healthcare delivery and future readiness.
Moreover, he emphasized the importance of continuous professional development, safe and supportive working environments, and clear career progression pathways for nurses and midwives. He described these elements as essential to empowering health professionals and ensuring sustainable improvements in healthcare systems across the continent.
Held under the theme “Reimagining Africa’s Health Workforce: An AUDA-NEPAD Continental Programme for Strengthening Nursing and Midwifery,” the engagement aligns with the 2026 agenda of the African Union and AUDA-NEPAD. It reflects a shared commitment to building a unified and forward-looking approach to health education and practice.
In addition, the forum is promoting cross-border recognition of qualifications, strengthening leadership within the professions, and encouraging innovation in health training. These efforts are expected to support greater mobility of skilled professionals and enhance cooperation among countries in the Global South.
Furthermore, participants are expressing optimism that the initiative will accelerate progress toward a more skilled, adaptable, and motivated health workforce. By harmonizing standards and reinforcing collaboration, the engagement is set to contribute significantly to improved healthcare outcomes across Africa.
As discussions continue, the Kigali forum is widely viewed as a positive and strategic platform for shaping the future of health workforce development, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to quality healthcare and long-term resilience.
