On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Tunisia's Ministry of Health published the "Tunis Declaration" for digital transformation in the healthcare sector. This declaration coincides with the International Conference on Digital Health, which is being held in Tunisia and features representatives from over 30 countries, as well as officials, experts, and representatives from international and regional organizations.
The Tunis Declaration focuses on several key areas, including prioritizing patients and fairness in digital transformation. It aims to develop available and inclusive solutions that meet the needs of individuals and healthcare professionals, contributing to universal health coverage. The declaration also emphasizes the importance of protecting health data and promoting digital sovereignty.
The declaration highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures to ensure the safety and resilience of healthcare systems. This includes preventing, detecting, and responding to cyber threats, while supporting the ability of health systems to withstand disruptions and maintain continuity of services.
Another key aspect of the declaration is the promotion of responsible and human-centered artificial intelligence. This involves ensuring safety, clinical validation, fairness, transparency, and accountability, ultimately serving patients and healthcare professionals. The declaration also stresses the importance of investing in healthcare workers by enhancing their digital skills and promoting education, training, and research.
The Tunis Declaration encourages international cooperation, particularly among African, Arab, and Mediterranean countries, as well as their partners. This cooperation will facilitate the exchange of knowledge, joint research, and the transfer of skills and technologies where needed. The goal is to translate these principles into concrete actions by promoting initiatives in areas such as telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
To ensure the effective implementation of the declaration, the Ministry of Health emphasizes the need for robust information systems that are interoperable, secure, and sustainable. These systems should be designed with consideration for the capacities and regulatory frameworks of each country. The declaration also calls for the establishment of suitable mechanisms to monitor progress and evaluate outcomes.
Tunisia recently received security equipment from the United States valued at nearly $1 million. Additionally, the UN Women's entity in Tunisia launched a campaign to support women in rural areas. These developments demonstrate Tunisia's commitment to improving its healthcare sector and promoting digital transformation.
Key points
- Tunisia's Ministry of Health issues "Tunis Declaration" for digital transformation in healthcare sector
- Declaration focuses on patient-centered care, data protection, and cybersecurity
- Tunisia hosts International Conference on Digital Health with over 30 participating countries
