The Galien Africa Forum is set to return this year from October 22 to 25 in Dakar, Senegal, with a mission to spotlight Africa's pressing health issues linked to climate change and environmental crises.

This year’s forum marks the 7th of the annual event which has become a significant platform for researchers, innovators, and stakeholders to collaborate on solutions tailored to the continent’s unique challenges.

The theme for this year’s forum, “Health and Community Actions in the Face of Climate and Environmental Crises in Africa”, underscores the urgent need to address public health issues exacerbated by environmental problems.

The event will reward exemplary research and innovation in areas such as medical technology, pharmaceutical products, and digital interventions aimed at improving public health outcomes.

As part of preparatory activities and to adequately align all partners of the forum to this year’s event, a key partner - the Africa Media Network for Health and Environment Promotion (REMAPSEN), led by its President, Mr. Bamaba Youssouf, hosted the Chairperson of Galien Africa Forum, Professor Awa Marie Coll-Seck in a webinar to discuss the relevance of this year’s focus.

Professor Coll-Seck who is a former Senegalese Minister of Health remarked that “the issue of environmental problems is associated with health challenges like malaria, diarrhea, and cholera due to water contamination.

Malnutrition linked to extreme weather events such as droughts or floods also affects many African communities.” She further explained that the forum aims to identify solutions that are specific to Africa's context, tackling the root causes of these health crises.

Galien Africa Forum’s Impact Over the Years

Since its inception, the Galien Africa Forum has made notable strides in supporting innovation across the continent.

By offering substantial financial rewards—$30,000 for outstanding research in health and environment—the forum has motivated individual innovators and institutions to further their work in tackling Africa’s most pressing health challenges.

Additionally, young innovators who reach the final stages of the award selection process will receive between $5,000 and $10,000, encouraging youth participation and capacity-building.

The Forum’s past themes have covered a broad spectrum of issues, from “Innovative Healthcare Solutions for Underserved Communities to Building Resilient Health Systems in Africa”.

These annual gatherings have not only enhanced partnerships between governments, NGOs, and the private sector but also provided a platform for African experts to exchange knowledge and best practices.

Professor Paul Lalvani, Founder and Executive Director of the Empower School of Health and a member of the Prix Galien Jury Africa, called for greater collaboration with African journalists and media organizations.

“It is crucial for the media to play a role in these discussions, amplifying the message and driving the response to African public health problems.”

He encouraged partnerships with the forum to ensure comprehensive coverage and awareness of health innovations that can transform lives.

Day One Focus: Empowering African Youth

The first day of the forum will prioritize youth engagement, featuring over 100 young participants from across Africa.

These youths will participate in capacity-building sessions designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to lead future innovations in health and environmental management.

Young finalists in the innovation category will also be recognized for their contributions, demonstrating the forum's commitment to nurturing the next generation of problem-solvers.

The Galien Africa Forum stands as a beacon of hope and progress, providing a platform for African-led solutions to health and environmental challenges.

As the continent faces increasing impacts from climate change, events like this play a vital role in fostering innovation, building resilience, and ultimately improving the health and well-being of millions across Africa.