When the continent’s medical experts and healthcare leaders gather in Cape Town next month, they will spend a big part of their discussions focused on Nursing Leadership. This will form part of the annual Africa Health Congress, which for the first time takes place in the Mother City.
“On 23 October, Congress will host the Nurse Leadership & Management session at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. This half-day seminar, part of the prestigious three-day congress agenda, brings together healthcare professionals from around the continent to explore the evolving landscape of nursing in Africa,” says Cynthia Makarutse, spokesperson for the organisers of Africa Health.
The session will address critical issues facing the profession. It aims to spotlight the evolving role of nursing within healthcare and empower the next generation of nurse leaders.
One of the speakers taking part in this session is former Botswana Health Minister Professor Sheila Tlou. She is currently the Special Ambassador for the African Leaders Malaria Alliance, Champion of the Nursing Now Challenge, and Chancellor of Botswana Open University.
“As we navigate complex healthcare challenges, it’s crucial to equip our nurses with the leadership skills and knowledge needed for the future. This seminar offers a platform to discuss systemic changes in nursing education, practice, and research that will shape the profession for years to come,” says Professor Tlou.
The session will be chaired by Professor Portia Jordan, President of FUNDISA (Forum of University Nursing Deans in South Africa). Her recent research focuses on critical care nursing and evidence-based practice. Other esteemed speakers joining Professors Tlou and Jordan include Professor M. Mtshali, CEO of the South African Nursing Council, and Professor Hester Klopper, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Stellenbosch University.
The session will explore global shifts in nursing education, practice, and research, envisioning the nurse of the future. A key focus will be on strategies for addressing recruitment challenges, and workforce shortages.
Other key topics that the speakers will address include the growing role of AI in nursing practice and patient care, with a focus on systemic changes and leadership development, and the impact of South Africa’s new National Health Insurance on the profession.
“Africa Health 2024 is proud to facilitate discussions that not only address current hurdles but also celebrate the nursing profession’s vital role in advancing healthcare,” says Makarutse.
“By focusing on systemic changes and innovation, we aim to contribute to the development of nursing leadership across Africa.”
This Nurse Leadership and Management event is one among a plethora of healthcare and leadership events at Africa Health 2024.
The session is tailored to be especially valuable to nurse educators as well as those working in roles such as Head of Nursing, Director of Nursing, and Nurse Manager.
The Nurse Leadership & Management session takes place on the afternoon of October 23rd on the 2nd day at Africa Health 2024, which is being held in Cape Town for the first time.