The Mapungubwe Institute of Strategic Reflection’s (MISTRA) upcoming research on Epidemics and the Health of African Nations explores these forces. It draws together researchers and practitioners from within the continent to examine Africa’s susceptibility to disease, and to demonstrate that this disease occurs commonly because of political and economic influences. Authors show how these factors also determine the way epidemics are managed and controlled.
Researchers found that Africa creates conditions that are ripe for the spread of disease, and explore why epidemics and endemics remain a public health challenge for the continent. They discuss diseases ranging from those with periodic outbreaks, such as malaria and cholera, to endemics such as HIV, and extending to outbreaks of uncommon diseases like listeriosis.
Authors extract lessons from case studies in different parts of Africa; challenge conventional frameworks about disease to argue for a multi-faceted ‘syndemics’ approach that takes account of the interrelationship between disease and political and socioeconomic contexts; examine the factors affecting the efficacy of frontline healthcare workers and point to the diseases and health challenges of Africa’s future.
MISTRA’s book on Epidemics and the Health of the African Nations is edited by Zamanzima Mazibuko, Senior Researcher in the Knowledge Economy and Scientific Advancement Faculty.
DATE: 15 July 2019
TIME: 18h00 – 20h30
VENUE: FNB Conference Centre, 114 Grayston Drive, Sandton
For RSVP to the launch, media enquiries or interview requests please contact:
Communications Officer
Siphokazi Sigenu
0722331341