Africa Must Develop Sustainable Cleft Care Systems

Prof. Peter Olaitan, a Professor of Burns and Plastic Surgery at the University of Osun Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, called on African governments to end reliance on foreign aid for cleft care. He made this statement during the presidential lecture titled “Cleft Care in Africa: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” at the joint Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons and the Nigerian Burn Injuries Society in Ibadan.

Olaitan noted that cleft lip and palate are significant congenital conditions leading to various medical and social issues. He pointed out that many affected families in Africa face poverty, lack of awareness, and limited access to healthcare.

He emphasized the importance of developing sustainable, locally led systems for comprehensive cleft treatment, including surgery and psychological support. He also urged governments to integrate cleft treatment into national health insurance schemes and establish dedicated cleft centers.

Nigeria has seen progress, with over 48,000 patients treated through Smile Train programs by July 2026.