Ghana’s John Mahama urges stronger African health systems to tackle crises and build long-term resilience

Addis Ababa, August 6, 2025 (FMC) — The Africa Health Sovereignty Summit opened Tuesday in Accra, Ghana, with a strong call to reimagine global health governance and assert African leadership in shaping the continent’s health future.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama emphasized the urgent need for Africa to develop robust health systems that go beyond crisis response to foster resilience, equity, and dignity for its people.

“Our continent must build health systems capable not only of withstanding crises but of creating lasting resilience and advancing human dignity,” Mahama said. “We must move toward a new paradigm of health financing rooted in African priorities and leadership.”

The President underscored the importance of restructuring a global health architecture that has historically sidelined African voices, needs, and innovations. He invited international partners to join in forging a health investment ecosystem that reflects Africa’s sovereignty and values.

“I extend an open invitation to all nations represented here to join us in building an African health investment ecosystem that is driven by purpose, powered by equity, and anchored in our sovereignty,” he said.

The summit brought together high-level dignitaries, including World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as well as senior health officials and policymakers from across the continent.

Organizers say the summit marks a pivotal moment for redefining Africa’s role in global health governance, with a focus on national ownership, sustained investment, and continent-wide solidarity.