High inflation in Africa drives up health costs

Weakening of local currencies leads to rising medical expenditure, experts say

The depreciation of local currencies coupled with the increasing rate of inflation has raised the cost of healthcare in Africa, negatively impacting both the patients and the sector players.

According to a report titled "Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa", published by the International Monetary Fund in mid-October, inflation at the end of the year is projected to remain in double digits in 14 countries, including some of the region's larger economies, such as Ethiopia and Nigeria.

Most of the African countries' currencies have depreciated against the US dollar, further increasing inflation in the region that is reliant on imports. Healthcare is one of the most affected sectors.