Africa can build back better after Covid-19 - The Mail & Guardian

As of May 24, 54 countries in Africa had recorded more than 100 000 Covid-19 cases and over 3 000 deaths. And although the number of cases continues to grow, it could have been much worse had it not been for African governments taking preventive action despite weakened environments.

Informal workers, 85.8% of the labour force, lacking social protection or buffers against economic shocks, are facing the devastating consequences. This is especially true for women workers who make up the majority of this sector. The pandemic has brought long-standing fragilities and inequalities into sharp relief, including systemic discrimination against women and girls.

The African Union leadership responded swiftly to the crisis, setting up a co-ordinated continental approach, establishing an anti-Covid-19 Response Fund and appointing special envoys to mobilise international support. The UN has launched a Global Humanitarian Plan, much of which is devoted to the African continent. The UN “Solidarity Flights”, led by the WHO and the World Food Programme in co-ordination with the AU and Africa CDC, are delivering urgently needed medical equipment to all African nations.

In Burkina Faso, Gabon, Mali and Tunisia, the UN is supporting governments in the procurement of Personal Protective Equipment . In Ethiopia, the UN — through WFP — is providing logistical support to facilitate delivery of products by private donors. Furthermore, the UN, along with the AU and the European Union, has just signed the regional programme of the Spotlight Initiative to end Violence against Women and Girls, dedicating some $40-million to prevention and response. Just a few months ago, Africa’s fortunes were on the upswing. Some of the world’s fastest-growing economies were on the continent. Increasing internet access continues to expand the frontiers of innovation for Africans, youth in particular.

First, improve affordable access to medical supplies by creating green lanes at customs to facilitate fast movement, suspending tariffs on medical items, establishing price control mechanisms and fostering local manufacturing of medical supplies. Fifth, we must heighten our focus on children, older persons, persons with disabilities, refugees and internally displaced persons.

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