• World Bank approves $135 million to support Senegal’s health system reforms.
• The Naatangue 2030 program targets maternal, child, and adolescent health and expands insurance coverage.
• Persistent inequalities between urban and rural areas continue to limit access to quality care.

World Bank approved $135 million in financing on Wednesday, March 18 to support Senegal in strengthening its health system. The program will improve health outcomes for women, children, and adolescents while enhancing financial protection for vulnerable populations.

This financing forms part of the Health System Development and Financial Protection Program, known as Naatangue 2030.

The Naatangue 2030 program aims to expand access to quality emergency obstetric and neonatal care. It will strengthen routine screening and continuity of care for women and children while extending effective health insurance coverage for vulnerable groups.

The program will also implement systemic improvements. It will increase the availability of essential medicines, deploy healthcare workers to underserved areas, and strengthen health information systems. In addition, it will promote data-driven decision-making and reinforce resilience to health and environmental shocks through regional early warning mechanisms.

“Naatangue 2030 reflects our shared commitment with the Senegalese government to ensure that every woman, child, and adolescent has access to quality health care without being exposed to vulnerability”, said Djibrilla Issa, division director for Senegal, Mauritania, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, and The Gambia.

Senegal has achieved significant progress in its health system, particularly in maternal and child health, vaccination, and the fight against communicable diseases.

Maternal mortality declined to 153 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023 from 392 in 2015, according to the World Health Organization. Infant mortality stands at 30 deaths per 1,000 live births.

About 68% of women attend at least four prenatal visits, and 75% of births are assisted by skilled health personnel.

Despite these gains, inequalities persist across Senegal. Access to quality healthcare varies significantly between urban and rural areas.

Remote regions face shortages of healthcare workers, infrastructure, and medical equipment. At the same time, vulnerable populations continue to face high costs and limited health insurance coverage.

Through this new financing, World Bank and Senegal aim to address these structural gaps and improve equitable access to healthcare services.

This article was initially published in French by Ingrid Haffiny

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum

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