WAHO Launches Patient Support Centres in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo to Boost Healthcare Accountability

The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has officially launched a landmark initiative to establish Health Service User Support Centres in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo. Formally inaugurated in Lomé, Togo, on August 21, 2026, the project marks a significant step toward enhancing healthcare quality and safety across the sub-region. These centres are designed to serve as dedicated, structured platforms where patients can seek guidance, report grievances, and engage in meaningful dialogue regarding their medical experiences, ensuring their voices are heard within the health system.

Beyond providing a simple avenue for complaints, the new centres are intended to be proactive tools for systemic reform. Dr. Melchior Athanase J. C. Aïssi, the Director General of WAHO, emphasized that the facilities will go beyond merely recording issues; they will actively gather and analyze information to identify recurring failures in health service delivery. By documenting patient feedback and monitoring the quality of care, the centres aim to help health authorities rectify long-standing issues and implement data-driven improvements that prioritize the safety and dignity of every individual seeking treatment.

This regional initiative is part of a broader ECOWAS strategy to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and the communities they serve. Representatives from various medical councils and ECOWAS leadership attended the launch, highlighting the critical importance of building mutual trust within the health sector. As the centres begin operations, the lessons learned in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo will be shared among other member states to foster regional collaboration. Ultimately, the project seeks to create a more responsive and accountable health system across West Africa, ensuring that patient feedback becomes a cornerstone of medical excellence.