The first African Summit on Health Systems and Health Sovereignty opened on Friday in Dakhla, bringing together nearly 200 African experts in person and more than 1,000 participants online. Organized by the Mohammed VI Foundation for Science and Health (FM6SS), the event aligns with the momentum driven by King Mohammed VI to advance African health sovereignty through innovation, cooperation, and capacity building.
The Summit aims to provide strategic insight into the future of Africa’s health systems, highlighting the continent’s progress in epidemiology, health infrastructure, training, governance, and research. Participants will also explore ways to strengthen interdisciplinary networks across the continent, positioning health as a catalyst for human, economic, and social development.
The opening ceremony saw the participation of several high-profile figures, including Azeddine El Midaoui, Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, and Youns Bjijou, Deputy Director of FM6SS. Attendees were presented with an institutional film showcasing the Foundation’s accomplishments, its growing role in medical training and research, and its commitment to supporting African health systems through strategic partnerships.
Throughout the Summit, experts will take part in multiple high-level panels covering key topics such as:
Epidemiology and health priorities in Africa
Integrated health information systems and global health
Governance and organizational models of health systems
Financing and universal health coverage in Africa
In addition, parallel sessions will be held at the Mohammed VI Campuses for Science and Health in Casablanca and later in Rabat, focusing on innovation, collaboration, and the role of various health-sector actors.The event also welcomed Ambassadors and Consuls General from African nations, along with Secretaries-General from multiple ministries, regional representatives, university leaders, scholars, and researchers—reflecting the broad continental commitment to achieving equitable and sovereign health systems across Africa.
The Summit is expected to conclude with actionable recommendations aimed at accelerating Africa’s march toward robust, autonomous, and inclusive health systems.
