African health ministers have officially endorsed the Oral Health Africa framework at the 75th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa, held in Lusaka, Zambia. This ambitious initiative targets improving oral health outcomes across the continent, where nearly 42% of the population suffers from dental diseases. The framework represents a strategic step toward achieving equitable access to oral health services and reducing disease burden.
Objectives of the Oral Health Africa Framework
The framework sets clear and measurable goals for member states. By 2028, at least 50% of each country’s population should have access to essential oral health services, while major oral diseases should see a 10% reduction in prevalence. In addition, the framework encourages countries to adopt national oral health policies supported by dedicated budgets and trained personnel. Integration of noma management into national strategies in endemic countries is also a key priority.
These objectives demonstrate the practical impact of Oral Health Africa, providing governments with a roadmap to prioritize oral health and allocate resources effectively. By setting concrete targets, the framework encourages measurable progress across the continent.
WHO’s Vision: Oral Health as a Core Component of Universal Health Coverage
Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, highlighted that oral diseases have historically been neglected, making them one of the most widespread public health issues in the region. He emphasized that oral health must be recognized as an integral part of universal health coverage. The Oral Health Africa framework calls for robust, sustained, and coordinated national efforts, ensuring adequate financing, leadership, and workforce to protect oral well-being.
WHO, in collaboration with international partners, is working to provide technical assistance, advocacy, and training programs. These initiatives aim to strengthen health systems, promote community awareness, and ensure that oral health services are accessible and integrated into primary care.
Regional Implementation Measures
Several African countries are implementing practical steps under the Oral Health Africa framework. Mauritius, for example, removed taxes on toothpaste to increase accessibility to fluoride toothpaste, preventing dental caries. More than 14,000 health workers across the region have enrolled in WHO oral health training programs, enabling early detection, referral, and management of oral diseases at community and primary care levels.
In addition, 14 countries are leading efforts to achieve WHO recognition of noma as a neglected tropical disease. These milestones reflect growing national commitment and demonstrate the tangible impact of the Oral Health Africa initiative.
Perspectives from African Ministers of Health
Honourable Ibrahima Sy, Senegal’s Minister of Health, praised the framework: “This initiative is a welcome addition to our fight against oral health diseases. Senegal has long recognized noma as a critical public health concern and remains committed to a multisectoral approach with WHO support.”
Ministers from across Africa emphasized that leadership, policy development, and community engagement are crucial for implementing the framework. Public awareness campaigns, school-based programs, and collaboration with NGOs are all part of strengthening the continent’s response to oral health challenges.
Five Priority Measures for Countries
The Oral Health Africa framework outlines five key priorities for national implementation:
- Strengthening leadership and financing through partnerships and governmental commitment.
- Developing and enforcing comprehensive national oral health policies.
- Integrating oral health into essential health service packages for universal access.
- Closing workforce gaps through task-sharing, training, and capacity building.
- Increasing access to essential medicines and enhancing disease surveillance systems.
These priority measures provide a clear roadmap for countries to follow. By implementing them systematically, governments can improve oral health outcomes and ensure that vulnerable populations are not left behind.
Challenges in Oral Health Investment and Workforce
Despite the high prevalence of oral diseases, investment in prevention and care remains inadequate. Over 70% of African countries spend less than US$1 per capita on oral health, compared to the global average of US$50 in 2019. Health services are heavily skewed toward costly curative care, while preventive measures such as fluoride toothpaste and silver diamine fluoride are limited.
Only four countries had national fluoride guidelines in 2023. Furthermore, the region faces a severe shortage of oral health workers, with just 3.7 per 100,000 people, far below the estimated 13.3 per 100,000 required to meet service demand. Addressing these gaps is critical for the successful implementation of the Oral Health Africa framework.
Strengthening Political Commitment and Technical Leadership
To effectively implement the framework, ministers agreed to enhance political commitment, provide technical leadership, mobilize both domestic and external resources, and ensure adequate human and logistical support. This comprehensive approach ensures that countries can make measurable progress toward improving oral health outcomes.
Collaboration between governments, WHO, and international partners will continue to drive innovation, share best practices, and monitor progress. The Oral Health Africa framework encourages regular reporting and accountability to track improvements in oral health coverage and disease reduction.
Future Outlook for Oral Health in Africa
With the adoption of the Oral Health Africa framework, African countries are positioned to achieve long-term improvements in oral health care. By expanding access to essential services, investing in prevention, and strengthening national policies, the continent can reduce the burden of oral diseases and improve quality of life for millions of people.
The framework also provides a foundation for multi-sectoral collaboration, integrating oral health into broader health agendas and reinforcing the role of oral health in achieving universal health coverage.
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Additional reliable source: WHO: Oral Health in Africa
