A groundbreaking five-year Brain Health Action Plan for Africa has been unveiled, positioning cognitive health as a central driver of the continent’s economic, social, and innovation agenda. The plan, developed by the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative (DAC) in partnership with the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation), marks a paradigm shift by framing brain health not only as a medical concern but also as a strategic investment in productivity and long-term prosperity.
The initiative was announced at a high-level Brussels event titled Brain Health as a Driver of Global Prosperity: A G20 Call to Action, co-hosted by DAC and the SFA Foundation. The event is part of DAC’s global “Brain House” tour, which began at the World Economic Forum in Davos and spans key policy forums including the G7 and the UN General Assembly.
Africa’s young population—half of whom will form the world’s new labour force by 2030—is at the heart of the continent’s emerging “brain economy.” Experts warn, however, that the projected tripling of brain-related disorders such as dementia by 2050 could undermine future growth if neurological and mental health challenges are not addressed.
“Africa’s greatest asset is its people, and the strength of our minds defines the strength of our future,” said Dr Tom Kariuki, CEO of the SFA Foundation. “Brain health is not just a scientific priority; it’s an economic and social investment that determines how well Africa competes and innovates.”
The plan outlines six strategic focus areas: advocacy, brain economy, data and AI, repurposing resources, breaking down silos, and funding, aiming to build sustainable, African-led brain health systems. By integrating mental and neurological health into education, labour, and digital transformation policies, stakeholders hope to redefine Africa’s development priorities for the next decade.
The Brain Health Plan was co-developed by a coalition of scientific and policy partners, including WHO AFRO, Africa CDC, Aga Khan University, and the University of the Witwatersrand. The SFA Foundation leads the data and digital innovation workgroup, leveraging AI and technology to expand early detection and equitable access to care.
Speakers from Aga Khan University, Wits University, University College London, Wellcome Leap, and the World Health Organisation highlighted the economic imperatives of brain health and the role of digital infrastructure in advancing early diagnosis and research.
The plan calls for coordinated investments in brain science, training, and innovation to empower Africa’s next generation of thinkers, scientists, and entrepreneurs, ensuring that brain health becomes synonymous with economic growth and sustainable development.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
Photo/SFA
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