Public Health in Postcolonial Africa: The Social and Political Determinants of Health

This collection explores how public health interventions in postcolonial Africa reflect broader power dynamics in the region, covering topics such as infopolitics, biopolitics, infectious diseases, economic security, and healthcare. It includes chapters on the COVID-19 pandemic and is relevant to students and researchers in global health, politics, and African studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating and interdisciplinary collection delves into the intricate relationship between public health interventions in postcolonial Africa and broader manifestations of power within the region. Beyond its primary objective of addressing disease and extending life, the book goes beyond the realm of public health to examine the social and political determinants of health that persist in the postcolonial era. The volume features contributions from scholars from various social science and humanities disciplines, exploring ongoing debates across a wide range of themes, including:

Infopolitics, biopolitics, and healthcare: This section explores the complex interplay between information, power, and health, examining how health policies and interventions are shaped by political and economic interests. It also examines the role of health institutions and professionals in shaping public perceptions and health outcomes.

Emerging infectious diseases, environment, and food cultures: This section examines the impact of environmental factors, food systems, and cultural practices on health outcomes in postcolonial Africa. It explores the emergence and spread of infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as the challenges of promoting healthy lifestyles and nutrition in these contexts.

Health interventions and economic security: This section explores the relationship between health interventions and economic development in postcolonial Africa. It examines how health policies and programs can contribute to economic growth, poverty reduction, and social well-being, as well as the challenges of implementing and sustaining health interventions in resource-limited settings.

Church administration and healthcare: This section examines the role of religious institutions and healthcare providers in postcolonial Africa. It explores the historical and cultural influences on healthcare practices, the challenges of integrating religious beliefs and practices with modern healthcare systems, and the potential for religious organizations to play a role in promoting health and social justice.

Livelihood, sex, sexuality, and HIV/AIDS: This section explores the complex relationship between livelihoods, sex, sexuality, and HIV/AIDS in postcolonial Africa. It examines the social and economic factors that contribute to high rates of HIV/AIDS infection, the challenges of promoting safe sex practices and reducing stigma and discrimination, and the role of healthcare providers in addressing these issues.

Offering a fresh and insightful understanding of health issues in this critical global region, the book includes chapters on issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, providing a timely and relevant perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing postcolonial Africa. The book is of interest to students and researchers across a wide range of disciplines, including global health, politics, and African studies.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032551289