Gabon

The National Health Development Plan (PNDS) 2024-2028 of Gabon aims to strengthen health system governance, universal health coverage (UHC), and resilience to public health challenges. It aligns with the National Health Policy 2024-2034, Agenda 2030, and international commitments, incorporating lessons from previous health plans to enhance service delivery, financial sustainability, and public health preparedness​. Gabon has made progress in expanding health services, particularly in maternal and child health, vaccination programs, and infectious disease control. However, the healthcare system remains hospital-centered, with limited preventive and primary care services. Persistent challenges include rural-urban disparities, inadequate health financing, workforce shortages, and weak infrastructure. Additionally, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and emerging epidemics present growing public health concerns​. The strategy emphasizes strengthening decentralization, integrating community-based healthcare, and improving epidemiological surveillance. Addressing environmental and social determinants of health, including climate change and antimicrobial resistance, is also a priority. While Gabon’s National Health Insurance (CNAMGS) has improved financial protection, out-of-pocket expenditures and inefficiencies in resource allocation remain challenges​. The success of PNDS 2024-2028 depends on strong political commitment, sustained investment, and enhanced governance frameworks. Strengthening primary healthcare, digital health solutions, and emergency preparedness will be critical to building a resilient, equitable, and high-performing healthcare system that meets national and global health goals​.