The African Union (AU) is bringing together ministers, central bank chiefs, and senior policymakers in Johannesburg from September 29 to October 3, 2025, for its 8th Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning and Integration. The high-level meeting will run under the theme: “Bridging Africa’s Health Financing Gap in a Changing Geo-Economic Context: Challenges and Potential Solutions.”
Over five days, leaders and technical experts will engage in deep conversations about strengthening Africa’s health systems while driving economic cooperation and continental integration in line with Agenda 2063. Delegates are expected to table practical solutions that balance fiscal realities with Africa’s urgent health and development needs.
A key highlight will be the unveiling of a Task Force for the Development of a Payment Services Directive for Africa (PSDA). This move is seen as a major step toward harmonising financial systems and building secure cross-border payment channels under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Other sessions will focus on innovative health financing models, health taxation, tax justice, and the release of the 2025 African Integration Report, which tracks progress in trade, finance, and free movement across the continent.
The summit is expected to end with a ministerial declaration on closing Africa’s health financing gap, alongside a continental Framework for Health Financing Acceleration anchored on equity, sustainability, and resilience. Partners such as the AfDB and Africa CDC are also lined up to provide technical assistance roadmaps for countries.
With global uncertainties, rising health demands, and limited fiscal space, the AU wants this gathering to serve as a rallying point for aligning health and finance policies. Leaders hope the outcomes will not only strengthen domestic financing commitments but also shape Africa’s common position ahead of key global platforms like COP30 and the South Africa G20 Presidency.
