Algeria to use space technology to combat climate-related health risks

Algeria's Minister of Health, Mohamed Seddik Aït Messaoudène, has called for the reinforcement of prevention, surveillance, and preparedness within the national health system to combat the risks posed by climate change. During a study day in Ben Aknoun, the Minister emphasized that climate change has evolved into a critical issue of health, development, and security.

Extreme weather phenomena, including rising temperatures, heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires, are increasing exposure to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, air pollution, and shifts in the spread of infectious and vector-borne diseases. These risks particularly affect vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.

To address these challenges, a tripartite agreement is being established between the National Agency for Health Security (ANSS) and the Algerian Space Agency (AZAL). This partnership aims to transition from reactive to predictive healthcare by utilizing space technologies, satellite imagery, remote sensing, and geographic information systems. These tools will be used to monitor environmental factors, identify high-risk zones, create health maps, and implement early warning mechanisms to facilitate timely decision-making.