Ubuntu Rising 2026 proposes nine health system reforms for Africa

More than 80 young health professionals, researchers, and innovators gathered at the Ubuntu Rising 2026 event in Cape Town to propose nine recommendations aimed at strengthening the role of youth in Africa’s health systems. Convened by the Africa Health Collaborative and hosted by the University of Cape Town, the initiative seeks to integrate youth perspectives into leadership, innovation, and employment strategies for the continent’s health future.

The recommendations address a significant workforce paradox. Data cited during the event indicates that while Africa faces a shortage of 5.5 million health workers, nearly one million trained professionals lack meaningful employment. Additionally, the broader youth employment landscape shows that 90% of employed young Africans work in the informal economy, with only 10% holding formal positions.