The United Nations (UN) member states should invest in nurses and midwives as essential pillars of resilient and effective healthcare systems globally.

This is according to Dr Sanele Lukhele from the University of the Free State’s (UFS) School of Nursing. Dr Lukhele recently attended the 59th Commission on Population and Development (CPD59), held at the UN headquarters in New York where she represented nurses and midwives, participating in her capacity as a Sigma Nursing United Nations Liaison, engaging with global leaders, policymakers, researchers, and health professionals on key population and development priorities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates a shortage of 4.5 million nurses and 0.31 million midwives by the year 2030 – bringing the global shortage of health workers estimated for 2030 to 4.8 million nurses and midwives. Dr Lukhele’s contribution aligned with international advocacy efforts, including the International Confederation of Midwives’ campaign theme “One Million More Midwives” and the International Council of Nurses’ theme “Empowered Nurses Save Lives”.

Strengthening global nursing leadership through Sigma Nursing

Sigma Nursing is an international honour society committed to advancing world health and recognising excellence in nursing scholarship, leadership, and service. With members in more than 100 countries, the organisation holds consultative status with the United Nations through the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), enabling active participation in global health and development dialogues.

The UFS has a longstanding relationship with Sigma Nursing, marked by significant leadership contributions from within the institution. UFS Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Hester C. Klopper, made history as the first African to serve as Global President of Sigma Nursing between 2013 and 2015. In addition, Prof Deliwe Phetlhu, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, played a key role in expanding Sigma Nursing’s presence in Africa, contributing to the establishment of multiple regional chapters and the formal recognition of Africa as a Sigma Nursing region.

Reflecting on this legacy, Dr Lukhele noted the importance of continuity in leadership within the nursing profession.

“Serving as a Sigma Nursing United Nations Liaison and representing nurses and midwives at the United Nations feels like following in the footsteps of giants. The leadership and contributions of Prof Hester C Klopper and Prof Deliwe Phetlhu continue to inspire and pave the way for emerging nurse and midwifery leaders across Africa,” she said.

Advocating for investment in nurses and midwives

The Sigma Nursing United Nations Liaison appointment is a three-year role that enables Dr Lukhele to represent the organisation at United Nations events and within the broader non-governmental organisation community, contributing to discussions on global health and nursing.

Contributing African perspectives to global health dialogue

The CPD59 session focused on key global priorities, including maternal and newborn health, reproductive health, youth development, and strengthening health systems. Dr Lukhele actively participated in discussions on maternal and newborn health, the role of midwifery in health system strengthening, and the importance of investing in emerging health professionals and leadership development within the African context.

Beyond formal statements, the commission provided opportunities for engagement with international delegates, policymakers, researchers, and health advocates, allowing for knowledge exchange and collaboration across diverse health systems.

Reflecting on the experience Dr Lukhele emphasised the importance of continued African participation in global health spaces.