Ethiopia’s Deputy PM Says Africa’s Strength Lies in Its People and Shared Resolve

Addis Ababa, July 21, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Temesgen Truneh, said Africa’s greatest strength lies in its people and their shared determination to shape the continent’s future, stressing that solidarity, partnership and purposeful leadership are essential to building a healthier, stronger and more prosperous Africa.

In a social media post shared after arriving in Accra, Ghana, where he is leading the Ethiopian delegation to the African Union Extraordinary Summit on Health, the Deputy Prime Minister described the gathering as a defining moment for the continent.

He said the summit provides an opportunity for African leaders to reinforce a shared commitment to building stronger and more resilient health systems capable of better preventing, preparing for and responding to communicable and non-communicable diseases.

He noted that stronger continental cooperation will be critical to ensuring Africa is better equipped to address current and emerging public health challenges while improving the well-being of its people.

Upon arrival at Accra International Airport, Temesgen expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Ghana for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and the Ethiopian delegation. He also thanked Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and senior government officials for receiving the delegation.

The African Union Extraordinary Summit on Health is scheduled to open in Accra on Wednesday, bringing together African Heads of State and Government, ministers, policymakers, health experts, development partners, civil society representatives and the private sector to deliberate on the continent’s health priorities.

Held under the theme, “Advancing Justice, Equity and Universal Health Coverage: Ending AIDS, TB, improving maternal health, addressing endemic non-communicable and neglected tropical diseases and conditions in Africa,” the summit is expected to reaffirm political commitment to advancing universal health coverage and accelerating efforts to tackle some of Africa’s most pressing health challenges.

Discussions are also expected to focus on strengthening resilient health systems, expanding local pharmaceutical manufacturing, mobilizing sustainable health financing, and enhancing continental cooperation to improve access to quality healthcare and reinforce Africa’s preparedness for future public health emergencies.