The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has marked its 38th anniversary with a renewed pledge to deepen health integration across the ECOWAS region and transform community-based healthcare into the cornerstone of public health policy.
Speaking from WAHO’s headquarters in Bobo-Dioulasso, the Director General of the Organisation, Dr. Melchior AÏSSI, declared that after nearly four decades of service, WAHO remains resolute in its mission to improve the health and wellbeing of West African populations.
He described the milestone as a celebration of “unwavering commitment” and a moment to reaffirm the institution’s vision of “an integrated, equitable and inclusive” regional health system.
Strong political roots, regional purpose
Established on July 9, 1987, by Protocol A/P2/7/87 signed in Abuja by the Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, WAHO was created with a clear mandate: to coordinate regional health policies and foster collaboration among West African countries in confronting public health challenges.
Dr. AÏSSI emphasized that the Organisation’s political foundation remains strong and relevant, especially in the face of new threats such as emerging epidemics, growing health disparities, and the need for more resilient systems.
“We have, over the decades, worked with determination to harmonise health policies, build national capacity, prevent epidemics, improve access to essential healthcare, and promote the local production of medicines and vaccines,” he said.
A new era: community health policy unveiled
A highlight of the past year, according to Dr. AÏSSI, was the adoption of the Regional Community Health Policy in May 2025. He described the policy as a “bold paradigm shift” that focuses on ensuring that all households across the sub-region are served by well-trained community health workers.
This policy, he said, marks a move away from fragmented responses and toward a holistic, multisectoral model that prioritises prevention, health promotion, and grassroots-level surveillance.
The vision is deeply anchored in the Lomé Declaration of April 4, 2025, in which ECOWAS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to making community health the bedrock of inclusive and sustainable healthcare systems.
The declaration called for increased domestic resource mobilisation, stronger community engagement, and higher levels of accountability from all health stakeholders.
“Community health must become the cornerstone of inclusive, resilient and sustainable health systems,” Dr. AÏSSI reiterated. “This is the path forward for ensuring that no one is left behind.”
Landmark projects reshaping the region
Dr. AÏSSI also highlighted several key initiatives under WAHO’s leadership that have had transformative effects on public health outcomes in the region.
Chief among them is SWEDD+ (Sahel Women’s Empowerment and Demographic Dividend), a flagship project that promotes gender equality, empowers women and girls, and leverages demographic changes to foster development.
Additionally, he underscored the Health Security Programme (HeSP), which is being implemented in partnership with the World Bank and other stakeholders.
HeSP is designed to bolster national and regional capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health emergencies.
Together, these initiatives aim to close gender gaps, mitigate demographic challenges, strengthen human capital, and ultimately revolutionise health systems.
“These are not just projects. They are platforms for investing in people, addressing structural inequalities, and building a safer, healthier future,” he said.
A call to action for the next chapter
In his address, Dr. AÏSSI issued a rallying call to governments, health professionals, civil society, and regional partners to intensify collective efforts.
“As I have often said: We must take ownership of our people’s health and make a real and lasting impact,” he declared.
He thanked all WAHO Member States, technical partners, frontline workers, and community leaders for their trust and unwavering dedication over the years.
He also reaffirmed the Organisation’s role as a central driver of health policy in West Africa.
“Together, let us continue to make WAHO a driving force for regional health integration and a catalyst for a healthier West Africa,” he said.
As WAHO steps into its 39th year, the focus is clear: deepen regional solidarity, empower communities, and build health systems that are resilient, inclusive, and fit for the future.
