Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
RESEARCH has been cited as an important tool in tackling public health challenges bedevilling the African continent.
This came out at the official opening of the Researchers and Innovators Conference in Harare this Tuesday.
Addressing delegates at the four-day Researchers and Innovators Conference, Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora highlighted the importance of research and innovations in health care.
“The objectives of this symposium align closely with our nation’s NDS1 202 (2012-2025) and the NHS. These frameworks highlight the significance of evidence-based healthcare practices and emphasise the role of research in addressing public health challenges. Through rigorous scientific inquiry, research enables us to gain insights into the complexities of diseases, identify effective interventions, and develop strategies to tackle public health issues.
“By conducting research that directly addresses the key health priorities outlined in these plans, we can generate knowledge that directly informs policy formulation, program implementation, and resource allocation. Moreover, health research enables us to identify and address health disparities, understand the social determinants of health, and design interventions that are contextually appropriate and inclusive. It empowers us to develop innovative solutions to complex health challenges, promote health equity, and improve the overall well-being of our population,” he said.
Professors and academics from various institutions highlighted how countries stand to benefit from embracing research.
“The continent still has a disproportionate burden in terms of research so focusing on health is critically important also because we have seen the impact of climate on health in particular vulnerable populations like pregnant women. So we really need research into these areas,” said Executive Director of CeSHHAR, Professor Stanley Luchters.
“There is a need to transcend and translate research into enterprise development that is why we have innovation hubs. There has been a global shift towards knowledge-based economies and this is the direction Zimbabwe is taking,” said the Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Midlands State University, Prof Mcebisi Maphosa.
Other topics to be discussed at the conference include sexual reproductive health, maternal and neonatal child health as well as the links between climate, environment, and research, among other issues.
