The International Conference on Humanitarian Health (ICHH Yaoundé 2026) was organized by the Mahola Health Foundation in partnership with All Access Agency, under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Health. The conference, which took place at the Hilton Hotel in Yaoundé, aimed to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable populations and strengthen African health systems. The event coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Mahola Health Foundation, established in 2016 to facilitate access to healthcare for disadvantaged individuals.
The conference was held under the theme "Building Resilient Health for Vulnerable Populations in Africa." During the event, the Mahola Health Foundation announced that it would award Chantal Biya a prize at a gala dinner. The foundation's president, Dr. Mathilde Mbouck, a cardiologist and teacher, explained that the initiative was motivated by the need for healthcare professionals to go beyond hospital settings and reach those who cannot afford medical care.
Over the past decade, the Mahola Health Foundation has contributed to the care of over 13,600 patients through medical missions, free consultations, prevention and screening campaigns, and training programs in Cameroon and other African communities. The foundation also works to strengthen the skills of healthcare professionals, particularly in emergency medicine and interventional cardiology.
Dr. Mbouck emphasized that the continent's health challenges require coordinated and sustainable responses. She stressed that it is no longer sufficient to respond only to emergencies, and that a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the healthcare needs of vulnerable populations.
The conference brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss ways to improve healthcare access and outcomes for vulnerable populations in Africa. The event provided a platform for participants to share experiences, expertise, and best practices in humanitarian health.
The Mahola Health Foundation's efforts have made a significant impact in the region, and the organization's 10th anniversary was marked by a celebration of its achievements. The foundation's work is a testament to the importance of collaborative efforts to address healthcare disparities in Africa.
The International Conference on Humanitarian Health (ICHH Yaoundé 2026) has concluded, but its impact is expected to be felt in the years to come. The event has raised awareness about the need for resilient healthcare systems and has provided a framework for future initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations in Africa.
Key points
- The conference aimed to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable populations and strengthen African health systems.
