The African Health Budget Network (AHBN) has launched an initiative aligned with the Community of Practitioners on Accountability and Social Action in Health (COPASAH) to strengthen health security in West and Central Africa.
AHBN coordinator, Dr. Aminu Magashi announced this at the conclusion of a three-day technical peer review retreat focused on improving accountability for health security finances in Nigeria, Cameroon and Senegal, held on Saturday in Abuja.
COPASAH is a network of advocates and social accountability practitioners committed to promoting health rights and equity, according to Science Nigeria. The network enhances members’ capacity to hold health systems accountable and serves as a platform for sharing resources, experiences and lessons.
It also supports joint efforts in producing and disseminating best practices, while fostering collaboration among member organisations to strengthen accountability in health. COPASAH focuses on addressing the needs of the most vulnerable populations and advocates for the active participation of citizens in improving health and rights within their communities.
Magashi explained that this strategic partnership aims to tackle regional health challenges by promoting transparency, community-based monitoring and equitable healthcare access.
The West and Central African Health Security Accountability Hub, led by key stakeholders, will serve as a central platform to coordinate efforts across nations, addressing critical health issues such as infectious disease outbreaks, maternal and child health and the impact of climate change on public health.
“The hub seeks to enhance collaboration between governments, civil society organisations, the media and international agencies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to health security.
“By aligning with COPASAH’s community-focused model, the hub will empower local communities to engage in monitoring healthcare services. This includes tracking resource allocation, reporting on healthcare delivery, and advocating for policy changes that prioritise the needs of marginalised populations,” he said.
Magashi highlighted the importance of social accountability in improving health outcomes:
“Health security is not just about epidemic preparedness, but also about ensuring that everyday healthcare services are accessible and effective. Community engagement is essential for holding health systems accountable and ensuring efficient resource use,” he added.
The initiative will focus on building community resilience to health threats through education, capacity building and advocacy, Magashi said.
“The aim is to empower local leaders to address health challenges, particularly in areas with limited government resources or weak infrastructure. A key aspect of the programme is training community health workers in surveillance, reporting and responding to public health emergencies,” he explained.
The hub will also collaborate with governments to improve policy frameworks that support health security accountability, addressing gaps in existing systems and ensuring adherence to international health regulations.
“Innovative technologies such as mobile platforms for real-time reporting and data collection will be deployed to track disease outbreaks and healthcare delivery performance,” he added.
As West and Central Africa continue to face complex health challenges, Magashi emphasised that establishing this regional hub is a significant step toward achieving health equity and strengthening accountability mechanisms.
“The collaboration with COPASAH brings a proven social accountability model to the region and aligns with global efforts to ensure resilient, inclusive and responsive health systems. By uniting communities, governments and international partners, the West and Central African Health Security Accountability Hub serves as a beacon of hope for achieving sustainable health security in the region,” he said.
