Health is considered a central element in achieving the MDGs (Millenium Development Goals). A physically, intellectually and emotionally healthy state can facilitate a person’s ability to learn, be productive and contribute to achieving the MDGs. Economic growth and development in all sectors of society is largely dependent upon a healthy population. For instance, in the African region the region’s GDP could have been an estimated USD 100 billion larger if malaria had been eliminated 35 years ago.

Health is closely related with life, which is a fundamental right, yet millions of people lose their lives from diseases every year. In 2004 the World Health Organization reported that, with 47.4 percent, Africa ranked the highest in terms of infectious and parasitic diseases compared to other regions. In 2007 the United Nations Development Programme reported that Africa ranked the highest in terms of mortality rates under the age of five. In sub-Saharan Africa, AIDS is said to be the leading cause of premature deaths compared to other regions of the world (GEO 4, UNEP, 2007).