Congo

The National Health Development Plan (PNDS) 2018-2022 of the Republic of Congo aligns with the National Development Plan (PND) 2018-2022, integrating health as a priority for economic and social growth. The plan is structured around four main strategic programs: strengthening governance and leadership in the health sector, improving equitable access to essential health services, ensuring health security and emergency management, and promoting health and disease prevention​. Despite these strategic efforts, the plan faces significant financial constraints, with a funding gap of 38% of the total estimated cost (438.985 billion CFA francs). The government has committed to financing 62% of the plan, equating to 714.063 billion CFA francs, representing approximately 13% of the national budget​. However, financial sustainability remains a critical challenge. The health system in Congo struggles with several systemic issues, including insufficient human resources, outdated medical infrastructure, inadequate disease surveillance, and weak emergency preparedness. The 2018 WHO Joint External Evaluation highlighted gaps in epidemic preparedness due to poor inter-ministerial coordination, insufficient emergency financing, and weak laboratory capacity​. To address these challenges, the PNDS emphasizes governance reforms, universal health coverage implementation, and improved service delivery at all levels. While the plan is comprehensive and aligns with international health objectives, its success depends on sustained financial investment, improved human resource capacity, and stronger multisectoral collaboration​.