A critical review of Global responses to African humanitarian disasters

The Ebola Crisis and the Global Response

I watched with growing disbelief as the Ebola crisis unfolded in West Africa. I was in Sierra Leone in April of the year the country was declared Ebola-free. Despite extensive media coverage on prevention and identification measures, within five months, Sierra Leone was overwhelmed by the virus. The nation became synonymous with disease, poverty, and inefficiency—experiences that, as a Sierra Leonean, were deeply painful. Yet, my pride in my roots has only grown stronger.

At the onset of the outbreak, the global response was slow, and many in the diaspora were dismissive of the situation's gravity. I knew first-hand that cultural beliefs, ignorance, and illiteracy could hinder efforts to contain the virus. However, the larger issue was the heavy reliance on outside intervention, particularly from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), whose guidance often appeared misdirected.

Consider the decision not to close borders with Guinea after the outbreak there. Initially, the WHO advised against it, yet Guinea soon closed its borders with Sierra Leone. Despite the growing crisis, the WHO hesitated to offer sufficient aid. Further delays included the use of experimental drugs like ZMAPP, and, while foreign doctors who contracted the virus received immediate treatment and media attention, the needs of African nations were side-lined. This treatment of Africa as secondary was a stark reminder of global indifference, which only shifted when the crisis began to threaten Western borders.

The Economic vs. Humanitarian Priorities 

The response to Ebola highlighted a troubling global tendency to prioritize the economy over human life. The question arises: what good is an economy if people are dying in droves? If the world can spend billions on wars, why is there hesitation to invest in fighting a global health crisis? Medical supplies, beds, doctors, and experimental drugs should have been the focus, not military interventions.

In contrast to the West’s approach, Cuba demonstrated commitment by sending medical staff to Sierra Leone. The international community could have sent far more resources—such as 100,000 beds—to help. Instead, the response was slow, inadequate, and disproportionate to the magnitude of the crisis.

Humanitarian and Health Challenges in the Aftermath 

The quarantine measures in Liberia and Sierra Leone led to severe humanitarian consequences. Many were left without food, and children orphaned by the virus were abandoned without care. Charities like Street-Child did commendable work to support these children, but more help was urgently needed. Without the necessary infrastructure, the death toll from starvation and neglect continued to rise.

Additionally, misdiagnosis of diseases like malaria and cholera, which shared symptoms with Ebola, contributed to further suffering. Many individuals were turned away from hospitals or were too afraid to seek treatment. Had the medical community not addressed these concerns, the death toll from these diseases could have surpassed that of Ebola itself.

The Role of the African Diaspora and Domestic Solutions 

Recurring health crises like Ebola and COVID-19 underscore the need for Africa to shift away from dependency on external aid. Africa must take ownership of its health challenges, with the active participation of the African diaspora—medical professionals, scientists, and healthcare workers who possess invaluable expertise, resources, and networks.

Many African professionals trained abroad are not fully utilized in their home countries. If they engaged in local health efforts—whether by returning or collaborating remotely—they could play a pivotal role in the development and implementation of health solutions. These professionals could help train the next generation of healthcare workers, conduct research, and lead reform efforts.

However, relying solely on the diaspora is insufficient. Africa must invest in building robust local institutions for research, healthcare delivery, and education. Creating specialized centers for infectious disease research, addressing regional issues like malaria and tuberculosis, would build self-sufficiency and strengthen Africa's healthcare system. The African Union (AU), as a continental body, is uniquely positioned to promote pan-African solutions by coordinating resources, funding research, and advocating for policies that prioritize local needs.

Africa’s Path to Self-Reliance and Leadership 

Africa’s health crises have exposed deep flaws in the global response. However, they also present an opportunity for the continent to take charge of its own destiny. By building local infrastructure, prioritizing African-led research, and reducing dependency on external aid, Africa can emerge as a leader in global health innovation.

The African continent has a rich history of medicinal knowledge, and with the right investment in modern science and technology, this potential can be harnessed to create sustainable health solutions. If Africa builds the necessary infrastructure and fosters a culture of self-reliance, it can manage health crises more effectively and emerge as a beacon of leadership in global health.

Conclusion: Concrete Actions for Africa’s Health Future

To secure Africa’s future in managing health crises, concrete steps must be taken:

• Establish Pan-African Health Institutions: Create a continent-wide body for independent epidemic and pandemic responses.
• Invest in Health Infrastructure: Build hospitals, research centres, and supply chains for medical needs across the continent.
• Support and Build African Charities: Strengthen local, well-organized charities to handle large-scale disaster relief.
• Promote African Leadership in Global Health: Encourage African countries to take the lead in offering solutions tailored to Africa’s unique needs.
• Ensure Transparency and Accountability in Aid: Implement tracking and auditing systems to ensure that donor funds reach the people who need them most.

As we confront the challenges posed by pandemics and epidemics, Africa must rise above the historical narratives of dependency and embrace a future where it stands tall, capable, and self-sufficient.t throw the baby out with the bathwater.