What are the characteristics of colonial health services in Africa?

Colonial health services in Africa were primarily characterized by a focus on the needs of the colonial powers rather than the local populations. These services often included limited medical care, predominantly for European settlers and military personnel, while indigenous communities received inadequate attention and resources. The infrastructure was typically underdeveloped, with a lack of trained local healthcare professionals, leading to significant disparities in health outcomes. Additionally, colonial health policies often emphasized control and surveillance over public health, reflecting broader colonial objectives.