Abstract

Introduction: Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted healthcare systems in developed countries and strained the unprepared and fragile health systems of many African nations, considerable concern emerged regarding the potential consequences for SDG 3 (Health and Wellbeing) indicators. This study aims to investigate whether the COVID-19 pandemic has indeed significantly impacted SDG 3 indicators in Africa.

Methods: This paper used a dual approach of desk review and empirical analysis. It synthesized information from scientific journals and renown institutions working on SDG implementation, such as the United Nations System. The empirical analysis utilized a statistical inference (Wilcoxon signed-rank test) to assess any significant differences in the rate of progress pre- and post-COVID-19. Data was sourced from the United Nations Global SDG database.

Results: Out of the 19 indicators examined, the findings reveal that only five indicators were significantly impacted: Maternal mortality (SDG 3.1.1), Neonatal mortality (SDG 3.2.2), Prevalence of hepatitis B (SDG 3.3.4), Vaccination Programmes (SDG 3.b.1), and Health worker density (SDG 3.c.1). It is noteworthy that the situation is not homogenous across countries.

Conclusion: Contrary to initial expectations, the available data suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic did not have the anticipated devastating impact on SDG 3. In the short term, the continent seemed equipped to respond to the pandemic, resulting in the limited impact observed in this study. A wider availability of data across the countries and indicators would have provided a deeper understanding of the situation.

Keywords: SDG 3, Health and wellbeing, Africa, COVID-19, SDG Progress