Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative Unveils Five-Year Strategy to Boost Brain Health in Africa and Globally

The Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative (DAC) has announced the release of a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at transforming brain health initiatives across Africa and beyond. Published recently in Nature Medicine, the plan details an innovative approach to strengthening health systems by emphasizing early detection, evidence-based care pathways, workforce development, and global data sharing. The strategy, known as the 6 x 5 Plan, is built around six key pillars designed to accelerate progress and foster resilience in brain health. It incorporates lessons from successful programs in Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria, demonstrating how localized solutions can inform broader policies.

The core philosophy of DAC’s model is to prioritize health system transformation, integrating technology, research, and community engagement. According to George Vradenburg, DAC’s Founding Chairman, this initiative underscores the importance of viewing brain health as a vital socio-economic asset. The plan was conceptualized after a pioneering conference in Nairobi, emphasizing brain health as an economic and social priority crucial for sustainable development.

Unlike traditional approaches that focus mainly on treatment later in life, the 6 x 5 Plan advocates for preventive measures, early intervention, and strengthening capacity throughout an individual’s lifespan. The six strategic priorities include advocacy and health literacy, positioning brain health as an economic driver, dismantling sector silos, leveraging technological innovations, increasing research funding, and optimizing local resources.

Lead author Dr. Mie Rizig from University College London highlights that resilient, equitable health systems supporting lifelong brain health are essential to meet the challenges posed by aging populations and neurodegenerative diseases. The strategy calls for collaborative efforts, local partnerships, and inclusive research to implement impactful solutions now.

This initiative aims to unlock Africa’s economic potential by investing in brain health, which can enhance youth development, workforce skills, and community well-being. Through this targeted approach, DAC seeks to reduce the social and financial burdens of brain disorders and foster sustainable progress in global health.