Interdisciplinary cross-sectoral strategies to mitigate health workforce migration in Africa

Abstract

Africa is grappling with a severe healthcare workforce shortage, with only 1.55 health workers per 1000 people, far below the WHO’s recommended threshold of 4.45. This deficit is exacerbated by the migration of healthcare professionals to developed countries. This study conducts a comprehensive review to identify practical solutions to mitigate healthcare workforce migration in Africa. A targeted literature review methodology was employed, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Ovid, and WHO repositories from 2014 to 2024. Supplementary searches were performed using Google, incorporating grey literature, reports from governmental and international organizations, and media articles. A total of 45 sources were included, consisting of 36 peer-reviewed articles and 15 pieces of grey literature, including blogs, news articles, and reports. The review identified 13 key solutions from peer-reviewed sources and 11 additional solutions from grey literature, which were analyzed and categorized into thematic areas. Key solutions highlighted by the review include enhancing professional training and career development opportunities, offering financial incentives, improving working conditions, and fostering international collaboration. Specific strategies include addressing wage disparities, providing mentorship, creating competitive postgraduate training programs, and improving workplace environments. These factors are critical to retaining healthcare professionals within African countries and ensuring their sustained engagement in the local healthcare systems. Results indicate that while salary increases were frequently suggested, a multifaceted approach is essential for addressing healthcare migration. Improvements in working conditions, career development, and the establishment of robust mentorship programs were emphasized as more sustainable solutions. In particular, the study highlighted the importance of comprehensive strategies that go beyond financial incentives, as merely increasing salaries may not adequately address the structural issues driving migration. The findings suggest that combating healthcare migration in Africa requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors, including government, health administration, and international organizations. A holistic approach, focusing on strengthening local healthcare systems, improving professional opportunities, and creating supportive working environments, is crucial for mitigating brain drain and improving healthcare delivery on the continent. The review underscores the need for sustained policy interventions, with a focus on both retention and attraction of healthcare professionals within Africa.