CNBC Africa screens Philips 'The African Dialogues'

8 Aug 2012

CNBC Africa will be screening the first episode of a new series called 'The African Dialogues', a discussion of issues and topics impacting society and business in Africa. The first dialogue touches on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 4 and 5, which targets the reduction of the rate of child mortality rates and improving maternal health.

According to the World Bank, over half of the countries that have signed up for the MDGs are not on track to achieve the under-five mortality target. The MDG target to reduce the maternal mortality ratio by 75% between 1990 and 2015, remains difficult to measure for almost all developing countries. The African Dialogues will provide a forum to discuss these complex themes, bringing together different stakeholders to engage on on-going reforms, potential models and options for action.

"Beyond our everyday markets coverage CNBC Africa is beginning to branch out to discuss some of the soft issues affecting business across the continent. Our partnership with Philips shines a light on an area which has escaped the media glare but affects the health of Africa's future workforce", says CNBC Africa chief editor, Godfrey Mutizwa.

Among the panellists at this dialogue are Professor Alex van den Heever, independent healthcare economist; David Russell, vice president and general manager, Mother and Child Care Business, Philips Healthcare and Dr Dumisani Bomela, CEO of the Hospital Association of South Africa.

CNBC Africa anchor, Hannah Viviers will moderate the discussion, which will be filmed in Illovo, Johannesburg, South Africa.

"So much is changing for healthcare in Africa at the moment," says Russell. "Governments are starting to introduce universal health schemes and new private sector players now see opportunities across Africa. But a lot needs to come together to really improve healthcare outcomes, especially when it comes to addressing the fundamentals; it is time to take a critical look at the preventable mortality rates in Africa from complications related to pregnancy and child birth."

"Availability of and access to high quality, affordable care for all mothers and children should be an issue of high priority for policy makers and societies. Philips has been dedicated to mother and child care for over 40 years, and we are engaging with the government and local stakeholders to understand and support their needs around maternal and infant care".

The dialogue will be broadcast on 9 August 2012 at 5PM CAT on CNBC Africa, DStv Channel 410.