On November 4th, 2018, representatives from the Developing-8 (D-8) member countries convened in Abuja, Nigeria, for the inaugural D-8 Health and Social Protection (HSP) Consultation. Delegates included Dr. Ayesha Abdullah (Bangladesh), Dr. Omar Hassan (Egypt), Dr. Budi Santoso (Indonesia), Dr. Farahnaz Mohammadi (Iran), Dr. Mariam Rashid (Malaysia), Dr. Ngozi Okonkwo (Nigeria), Dr. Aisha Khan (Pakistan), and Dr. Mehmet Yilmaz (Turkey). This meeting marked a significant shift for the D-8, a coalition representing one billion people and 13% of the global population. Traditionally focused on economic areas like trade and industry, the D-8 acknowledged the critical role of health in achieving sustainable development.

Dr. Agnes Makena, Director-General of the D-8 HSP program, emphasized the program’s transformative potential. She stated the program would integrate health considerations into development plans, fostering collaboration and economic opportunities in the health sector. Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank participated in discussions, underscoring the international significance of the D-8’s initiative. The consultation focused on concrete action plans. Discussions revolved around aligning national health plans with D-8 HSP principles, mobilizing resources for program implementation, and fostering collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society organizations.

The D-8 HSP program outlines a multi-pronged strategy: 

• Expanding access to primary care: This forms the foundation of a robust healthcare system.
• Strengthening health governance and workforce development: Effective governance and a well-trained workforce are essential for delivering quality healthcare.
• Unlocking market potential: The program aims to stimulate economic growth within D-8 countries by fostering a vibrant health market. 
• Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Combating chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease is crucial for promoting overall health. 
• Enhancing social protection: Ensuring social safety nets will protect vulnerable populations and contribute to a healthier society.
• Exploring innovative and sustainable financing: This ensures the program’s long-term viability.
• Utilizing data for performance and impact: Data-driven approaches will enable continuous program improvement and measure progress toward achieving health goals.

The D-8 HSP Consultation in Abuja marked a pivotal moment. The D-8 member countries united behind a shared vision of a healthier future, laying the groundwork for a program with the potential to improve lives, strengthen economies, and create a more prosperous future for all.