ABSTRACT:
The pursuit of inclusive growth in Africa continues to face persistent challenges arising from weak governance systems and inadequate public health outcomes. This study examines the interrelationship between public health, governance, and inclusive growth in African economies using a Structural Equation Model (SEM) framework. Drawing on data from multiple African countries between 2000 and 2023, the study integrates key indicators such as public health expenditure, life expectancy, governance quality indices, income inequality, and inclusive growth measures. The SEM approach enables the simultaneous estimation of both direct and indirect effects, capturing the complex linkages between institutional quality, health outcomes, and economic inclusiveness. Preliminary expectations suggest that improved governance positively influences public health system performance, which in turn drives inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Conversely, weak governance is hypothesised to distort resource allocation, exacerbate health inequalities, and slow economic inclusion. The study contributes to the growing discourse on the political economy of development by highlighting governance as a mediating factor in the health–growth nexus. Policy recommendations will emphasise the need for strengthened institutional frameworks, transparent health financing mechanisms, and integrated governance reforms that enhance the efficiency of public health spending. Ultimately, the findings are expected to provide empirical insights into how African governments can leverage governance and health system improvements to achieve equitable and sustainable development outcomes.