Multiple reports have documented the impartant deficit in human resources in health (HRH) in Africa. The causes are multiple and relate to a combination of underproduction, internal mal-distribution and inappropriate task allocation, working conditions and brain drain. The HURAPRIM-project will develop innovative interventions and policies and address the HRH crisis. The objectives of the projects are to analyse the actual situation of HRH in Africa, to understand the complexity of the causes for the actaul shortages in primary health care, to test interventions, strategies and policies that may improve the situation and to maximise networking and synergies.