By: Alimatu Kargbo
The West African Health Organization (WAHO) has been hailed as a model institution within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as regional leaders and health experts gathered in Freetown to strengthen health systems across member states.
WAHO, a specialised ECOWAS agency, is responsible for harmonising health policies, strengthening national health systems, and promoting regional cooperation aimed at improving the well-being of people across West Africa.
Speaking at the opening, Olawale Emmanuel Awe described WAHO as one of ECOWAS’s most impactful initiatives, noting that it directly reflects the vision behind the formation of ECOWAS in 1975. He emphasized that WAHO stands out for its well-structured and coordinated system for delivering interventions across member states.
“This is a notable programme,” he said, adding that the annual meeting provides a platform to review progress and design more effective interventions to meet the health needs of the region.
The Head of the ECOWAS National Office, Komba Momoh, commended the commitment of stakeholders and highlighted WAHO’s unique structure as a source of pride. He welcomed delegates and formally invited representatives to engage in meaningful discussions aimed at improving regional health outcomes.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the ECOWAS Resident Representative, a delegate conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio and Ambassador John Azuma, while officially welcoming participants to the 2026 WAHO Financial Support Steering Committee Meeting in Freetown.
The meeting, which brings together 12 steering committee members from across the region, was described as a critical platform for strengthening oversight, coordination, and accountability in the management of WAHO-funded health programmes.
Participants noted that in Sierra Leone, WAHO’s interventions have already produced tangible results, particularly in maternal and child health, disease surveillance, and workforce development. Improvements in emergency response systems were also highlighted as key achievements driven by regional collaboration.
Director General of WAHO, Melchior J.C. Aissi, stressed that health should be seen as a state of complete well-being, not merely the absence of disease. He urged stakeholders to look beyond hospitals and ministries, emphasizing a broader, more inclusive approach to health systems strengthening.
He also pointed to growing financial challenges facing the region, including reduced external support from major partners such as USAID, the World Bank, and the European Union.
Despite this, he revealed that confidence in WAHO has significantly improved, with transparency and accountability measures helping to rebuild trust among development partners.
Aissi acknowledged past financial management concerns, but noted that recent audit outcomes have been positive, with improved tracking and reporting of funds at the country level.
“This meeting is not just about progress, it is about performance, efficiency, and the future,” he stated, urging participants to adopt innovative and transparent approaches to maximise impact.
As deliberations continue, stakeholders are expected to identify gaps, share best practices, and chart a stronger path forward for health systems across the ECOWAS region.
The Freetown gathering marks a significant step toward reinforcing regional cooperation and ensuring that health interventions deliver meaningful results for millions across West Africa.
