Join the Federation of African Medical Students’ Associations (FAMSA) Today!

We’re calling for applications for the 2024/2025 tenure to our:

✨ Regional Councils
▪︎ West Africa
▪︎ East Africa
▪︎ Central Africa
▪︎ Northern Africa
▪︎ Southern Africa

✨ Standing Committees
▪︎ Standing Committee on Medical Education and Research (SCOMER)
▪︎ Standing Committee on Population Activities (SCOPA)
▪︎ Standing Committee on Publications (SCOPUB)
▪︎ Standing Committee on Professional Exchange (SCOPE)
▪︎ Standing Committee on Health and Environment (SCOHE)

✨ Technical Working Groups
▪︎ HIV/AIDS
▪︎ Pandemic Preparedness, Prevention and Response
▪︎ Climate Change and Planetary Health
▪︎ Digital Health and Innovation

✨ Sub Committees

This is your chance to lead, innovate, and make a difference in African healthcare!

📅 Deadline: 22nd January, 2025

🔗 Apply now: https://forms.gle/157CsvJ5d6FsAoJb9

📧 Got questions? Contact us at famsaarchives@gmail.com

Let’s build the future of healthcare in Africa, together! 🌍✨

APPEL À DES OFFICIERS DE LA FAMSA POUR LE MANDAT 2024/2025

Rejoignez dès aujourd’hui la Fédération des Associations des Étudiants en Médecine d’Afrique (FAMSA)!

Nous lançons un appel à candidatures pour le mandat 2024/2025 au sein de nos:

✨ Conseils Régionaux
▪ Afrique de l’Ouest
▪ Afrique de l’Est
▪ Afrique Centrale
▪ Afrique du Nord
▪ Afrique Australe

✨ Comités Permanents
▪ Comité Permanent sur l’Éducation Médicale et la Recherche (SCOMER)
▪ Comité Permanent sur les Activités Démographiques (SCOPA)
▪ Comité Permanent sur les Publications (SCOPUB)
▪ Comité Permanent sur les Échanges Professionnels (SCOPE)
▪ Comité Permanent sur la Santé et l’Environnement (SCOHE)

✨ Groupes de Travail Techniques
▪ VIH/SIDA
▪ Préparation, Prévention et Réponse aux Pandémies
▪ Changement Climatique et Santé Planétaire
▪ Santé Numérique et Innovation

✨ Sous-comités

C’est votre chance de diriger, d’innover et de faire une différence dans le domaine de la santé en Afrique!

📅 Date limite: 22 janvier 2025

🔗 Postulez dès maintenant: https://forms.gle/157CsvJ5d6FsAoJb9

📧 Des questions? Contactez-nous à: famsaarchives@gmail.com

Construisons ensemble l’avenir de la santé en Afrique! 🌍

The Federation of African Medical Students’ Associations (FAMSA) invites passionate and dedicated medical students across Africa to apply for
Executive Council positions for the 2024/2025 tenure.

Available Positions:

• Regional Coordinators:
• Central Africa
• North Africa
• West Africa
• Standing Committee Chairpersons:
• SCOPA
• SCOPUB
• Special Executive:
• French Translator
• Arabic Translator

Application Requirements

• Proof of payment of MSA dues (USD 30)
• Recommendation letter from your MSA president
• Updated Curriculum Vitae
• Motivation letter

Click here to apply

Deadline: 3rd December 2024
For inquiries, email famsaarchives@gmail.com
Note: not open to Nigerian medical students (we already have the max number on the Executive council)

La Fédération des Associations des Étudiants en Médecine d’Afrique (FAMSA) invite les étudiants en médecine passionnés et engagés de toute l’Afrique à postuler aux postes du Conseil Exécutif pour le mandat 2024/2025.

Postes disponibles :
Coordinateurs régionaux :
Afrique centrale
Afrique du Nord
Afrique de l’Ouest

Présidents des comités permanents :
SCOPA
SCOPUB

Postes spéciaux :
Traducteur en français
Traducteur en arabe

Conditions de candidature :

Preuve de paiement des cotisations à l’association des étudiants en médecine (30 USD)
Lettre de recommandation du président de votre association.
Curriculum Vitae actualisé.
Postulez via : https://bit.ly/3Zl7Pp1
Lettre de motivation.

Date limite : 3 décembre 2024
Pour toute question, contactez famsaarchives@gmail.com.

The Federation of African Medical Students Associations (FAMSA) and Futurize are announcing a strategic partnership to solve major public health challenges in Africa through a brand-new initiative, the 2024 Pan-African Digital Health and Innovation Challenge, dubbed AfroHack ‘24. Both organizations seek to support young Africans to generate innovative ideas and technology that could evolve healthcare delivery in Africa.

According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, a large proportion of people living within Africa are below the age of 25. In a world where many African countries are grappling with high rates of poor health outcomes like high maternal mortality and high HIV transmission rates, young Africans are often misperceived to be observers without agency rather than actors with the potential to actively participate in solving these issues.  Through this initiative, we aim to counter this inaccurate narrative.

Spearheaded by FAMSA Vice President and Lead Organizer, Victor Femi-Lawal, as well as Hackathon Co-Chairs, Stephen Igwe and Adetayo Adetokun, and Programs and Communication Leads, Olaoluwaposi Ogunlana and Temilola Aderemi, the 2024 Pan-African Digital Health and Innovation Challenge will involve teams of 3 to 5 university students and early career professionals from across Africa in a 72-hour hackathon. The hackathon offers young people the opportunity to brainstorm and develop creative solutions to specific problems within their communities. The hackathon will be held virtually, between the 21^st and 24^th of November, 2024. Innovative ideas across subject areas such as maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS, sexual and reproductive health, and vaccine preventable diseases will be supported.

About Futurize

Futurize designs and delivers innovation & venture-building programs and help businesses and universities accelerate technology to meet their innovation goals. Futurize is trusted by global top-tier universities to provide young people a platform to build their ventures. The company works with industry-leading companies in healthcare, renewable energies & tech.

About FAMSA

FAMSA is an independent, non-political federation of medical students’ associations in Africa. As a project-oriented organization, FAMSA is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the African Union (AU) as the official international forum of African medical students. FAMSA’s vision is to become a strong network of medical students, aware of global health issues and responsive to the current questions facing the medical profession and global health. A key objective is to enhance and broaden the general and special education of member medical students in and about various parts of Africa, and thus to contribute to the improvement of medical education and healthcare outcomes in Africa.

Gender mainstreaming in health is not just a buzzword; it’s a powerful approach that can transform healthcare systems, improve outcomes, and inspire true inclusion. Gender mainstreaming is a strategy to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all aspects of society, including health. Gender mainstreaming in health means integrating a gender perspective into the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of health policies, programs and services. It also means addressing the different needs, preferences and experiences of women and men, as well as the social and cultural factors that affect their health outcomes. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) is at the forefront of promoting gender mainstreaming in health. This is evidenced by the various activities organised by it including;

• Policy Integration: WHO integrates gender considerations into its policies, programs, and actions. It recognizes that gender equality benefits everyone, regardless of sex.
• Practical Guidance: WHO provides practical resources for health managers. Their manual on gender mainstreaming emphasizes the importance of making both women’s and men’s concerns central to health interventions.
• Advocacy: WHO advocates for gender equality as a global health priority. It encourages member states to adopt gender-responsive policies.

There is need to delve into the importance of gender mainstreaming in health and explore how it can shape a more equitable and effective health sector. It’s not about creating separate health programs for men and women; rather, it’s about integrating gender considerations into every aspect of health policy, planning, and implementation.  It entails;

• An Integral Dimension; Gender mainstreaming makes both women’s and men’s concerns fundamental to the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of policies and programs. It ensures that both genders benefit equally, and inequality is not perpetuated.
• Beyond Gender Disparities: It goes beyond addressing gender disparities. Gender mainstreaming also considers other dimensions of equity and human rights. By doing so, it targets discriminatory social norms and structural barriers from the outset.

What is the relevance of Gender Mainstreaming?

Gender mainstreaming in health is important because gender is a key determinant of health. 

✓ Health Equity and Outcomes; Gender influences health outcomes. For instance, women and men may experience diseases differently due to biological factors, social roles, different beliefs, and access to healthcare. Biological differences between women and men, such as reproductive organs, hormones and chromosomes, can influence their susceptibility to certain diseases and conditions. For example, women are more likely to suffer from osteoporosis, breast cancer and urinary tract infections, while men are more likely to suffer from prostate cancer, cardiovascular diseases and injuries. Moreover, gender norms, roles and relations can affect the access, utilization and quality of health care for women and men. For example, women may face barriers to health care due to lack of decision-making power, mobility, education, income and information, while men may face barriers due to stigma, discrimination, violence and lack of awareness. By mainstreaming gender, we can tailor interventions to address these differences. For example:

• Prevention; Gender-sensitive health promotion campaigns can encourage behaviours that benefit both sexes and discourage any beliefs that put people of a specific gender at a disadvantage.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: Considering gender-specific symptoms and responses can lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.

• Intersectionality and Inclusivity; Intersectionality recognizes that individuals have multiple identities (e.g., gender, race, socioeconomic status). These intersecting identities shape health experiences. Gender mainstreaming takes intersectionality into account. It ensures that health programs consider diverse needs, including those of marginalized groups. Gender mainstreaming in health can inspire inclusion by ensuring that the health needs and rights of women and men are equally recognized, respected and fulfilled.
  
• Empowerment of Women and Girls; Gender mainstreaming empowers women by recognizing their agency, autonomy, and rights. When women are actively involved in health decision-making, it leads to better health outcomes for families and communities.
• Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); The SDGs emphasize gender equality and health for all. Gender mainstreaming aligns with these goals. For instance, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) aims to ensure universal health coverage. Gender-responsive policies contribute to achieving this goal. Some of the other SDGs that are directly related to gender mainstreaming in health are:
  • SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
  • SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

To implement gender mainstreaming in health, some of the practical steps that can be taken are;

• Conducting gender analysis to identify the gender-related gaps, challenges and opportunities in health to aid in the formation of targeted solutions to the problems.
  • Developing gender-responsive health policies, programs and services that address the specific needs and priorities of women and men.
  • Allocating adequate human, financial and technical resources for gender mainstreaming in health.
  • Building the capacity and awareness of health workers, managers and decision-makers on gender issues and skills.
  • Engaging with stakeholders, such as civil society, media, academia and communities, to promote gender equality and social inclusion in health.
  • Monitoring and evaluating the progress and impact of gender mainstreaming in health using gender-sensitive indicators and data.

Therefore, Gender mainstreaming isn’t an abstract concept; it’s a powerful tool for creating inclusive, effective, and equitable health systems. It is not only a matter of justice and human rights, but also a matter of efficiency and effectiveness. By weaving gender considerations into the fabric of healthcare, we inspire true inclusion—one where everyone’s health matters, regardless of gender or background and thus contribute to the development of more equitable and sustainable societies. Let’s continue to champion gender mainstreaming and build a healthier world for all! 

References. 

1.World Health Organization (WHO). https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/360406/9789240049291eng.pdf?sequence=1.

2. Gender and health – World Health Organization (WHO). https://www.who.int/newsroom/questions–and–answers/item/gender–and–health. 

3.Health           |           European         Institute           for       Gender            Equality. https://eige.europa.eu/gendermainstreaming/policy–areas/health?language_content_entity=en.

4.Gender Mainstreaming in Health: A Practical Guide | IGWG. https://www.igwg.org/k4htoolkit/gender–integration–and–mainstreaming/gender–mainstreaming–in–health–a–practicalguid–e/. 

5.         Gender            Mainstreaming            in         Health:            A         Practical Guide –           PAHO. https://www.paho.org/en/documents/gender–mainstreaming–health–practical–guide. 

AUTHOR;
NANDERA KETRA VENESA.
UGANDA.

The human race embodies diverse genders, each with unique experiences and health needs. Yet, healthcare systems often resemble a faded, singular cloth, neglecting the intricate peculiarities that define our well-being. This is where the powerful concept of Gender Mainstreaming in Health Programs steps in, promising a better healthcare landscape that celebrates inclusivity.

Imagine a bustling health clinic, no longer evidenced by the silence of unmet needs. Here, women receive culturally sensitive screenings for cervical cancer, a disease that disproportionately affects them. Male-dominated spaces like mental health clinics become welcoming, offering resources tailored to address anxieties surrounding masculinity. Transgender individuals find healthcare professionals equipped to understand their specific medical history and concerns. This is the transformative power of Gender Mainstreaming.

But what exactly is this transformative force? Gender Mainstreaming is the systematic process of integrating a gender perspective into the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of health programs. It’s about acknowledging the biological, social, and cultural factors that influence men’s and women’s health differently. This translates to recognizing that women, for example, may face specific barriers to accessing healthcare due to childcare responsibilities or cultural taboos. Men, on the other hand, might be less likely to seek preventive care due to societal expectations of stoicism.

The benefits of Gender Mainstreaming ripple outwards, creating a more equitable healthcare system for all. When programs take into account the different needs of various genders, participation rates rise.  Stigma surrounding certain health issues begins to fade as diverse voices are heard and addressed. Health outcomes improve as preventive screenings and treatments become more accessible to a wider range of people.

This doesn’t suggest that men and women require entirely separate healthcare systems.  The goal is to create a nuanced and comprehensive approach. For instance, during heart disease awareness campaigns, Gender Mainstreaming might highlight the often-overlooked symptoms women experience compared to men. It’s not about creating a divide, but a richer understanding of the spectrum of human health.

Inspiring inclusion requires action. Healthcare professionals must undergo gender sensitivity training, equipping them to provide culturally competent care. Data collection and analysis should be disaggregated by sex (male/female) to identify existing inequalities. Community involvement is crucial, giving room for dialogue and understanding the specific needs of diverse groups.

The right way towards a truly inclusive healthcare system is paved with awareness, education, and a commitment to dismantling existing biases. By embracing Gender Mainstreaming in Health Programs, we can transform the healthcare landscape into a vibrant tapestry, where every thread is valued, and every individual has the opportunity to create a life of health and wellbeing.

The power of Gender Mainstreaming extends far beyond the walls of a clinic. It’s a philosophy that ripples outwards, influencing policy decisions, resource allocation, and the very fabric of a community’s health.

Gender equality in health starts with education. Breaking down gender stereotypes surrounding health knowledge is crucial.  Imagine workshops in schools that teach young boys and girls about healthy relationships, body image, and the importance of preventative care. This dismantles harmful cultural norms from a young age, fostering a generation that prioritizes health and well-being equally.

Community involvement is essential for successful Gender Mainstreaming. Local leaders, women’s groups, and LGBTQ+ organizations all have valuable insights to offer. Engaging with them throughout the process ensures programs are culturally appropriate and address the specific needs of the population. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ownership, promoting long-term sustainability of health initiatives.

Health isn’t just about medical care; it’s a complex web influenced by social determinants like poverty, education, and access to safe housing. Gender Mainstreaming recognizes this connection.  For instance, addressing the higher rates of poverty experienced by women can lead to improved maternal health outcomes.

Gender-based violence remains a tragic reality for many. Integrating gender perspectives into healthcare programs can help break this cycle. This might involve training healthcare professionals to identify and support victims of violence,  as well as providing resources and referral pathways to ensure safety and access to justice.

Technology can be a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity. Imagine mobile health apps with information translated into local languages or educational videos featuring diverse individuals sharing their health journeys. These innovative approaches can bridge the gap between healthcare services and hard-to-reach communities.

In conclusion, the journey towards a truly inclusive healthcare system is an ongoing process. However, by embracing Gender Mainstreaming in Health Programs, we can move beyond mere slogans and statistics. We can create a tangible reality where every individual, regardless of gender identity or background, feels empowered to take charge of their health and well-being. This is a future where inclusivity isn’t just a concept, it’s the vibrant thread running through the very fabric of our healthcare system.

REFERENCES

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) (2023). World Population Prospects 2023.

[https://www.unfpa.org/swp2023]

(https://www.unfpa.org/swp2023)

World Health Organization (WHO) (2023). Gender mainstreaming in health.

[https://www.who.int/news/item/06-07-2022-who-updates-widely-used-gender-mainstreamingmanual](https://www.who.int/news/item/06-07-2022-who-updates-widely-used-gendermainstreaming-manual)

Agyepong, I. A., & Adjei, S. (2016). Gender and health in Africa. In The Routledge Handbook of African Development (pp. 261-274). Routledge.

George, A., Patel, V., & Mahal, A. (2013). Gender, equity, and human rights in health: Why sex and gender matter in global health. The Lancet, 382(9892), 1335-1345.

[https://www.thelancet.com/series/gender-equality-normshealth](https://www.thelancet.com/series/gender-equality-norms-health)

Mberu, B. (2015). The impact of gender inequality on health in Africa. African Journal of Reproductive Health, 19(3), 36-44.

[https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3402/gha.v7.23717](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/f ull/10.3402/gha.v7.23717)

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

United Nations Women (UN Women) (2023). Gender equality in health. [https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2022-07/Gender-equality-for-health-and-wellbeing-en.pdf](https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2022-07/Gender-equality-for-healthand-well-being-en.pdf)

African Union Commission (AUC) (2017). The African Union Agenda 2063: One Africa, One People, One Destiny.

[https://au.int/en/agenda2063/overview](https://au.int/en/agenda2063/overview)