This archive report was first published on 5 August 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, it's essential to consider the potential consequences for African leaders who failed to prepare their countries for the crisis.
Published on August 5, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) had warned African countries to prepare for the worst due to their fragile health systems, where healthcare workers are under-equipped and insufficient, averaging two for 1,000 patients. Kenya's ratio is 8.3:1,000, far below the WHO-recommended 25:10,000.
With the pandemic affecting almost all African countries, the limited testing and care capacity in hospitals are a cause for concern. The question remains: will governments be held accountable for their lack of preparation?
Article 16 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights stipulates that State parties must take necessary measures to protect the health of their people and ensure they receive medical attention when sick.
Some African leaders may argue that the right to health is progressive, a realization that depends on available resources. However, history suggests that they may have to answer for their actions.
In 2016, Sierra Leone was prosecuted in the Ecowas Court of Justice for misusing funds granted to fight the Ebola virus epidemic. Nigeria and The Gambia were condemned by the African Commission on Human Rights in 2001 and 2003, respectively, for violating the human right to health of their populations.
African leaders must prevent the spread of contradictory and misleading information about the coronavirus. For this, too, they may have to answer.
— Mr. Vincent Odundo is a journalist in Nairobi.
