President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized that Africa’s development and prosperity are inextricably linked to the strength of its health systems, stating that “health is the engine of productivity and the bedrock of inclusive growth.”
He made these remarks during the opening session of the Africa Health Sovereignty Summit held today at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, under the banner of The Accra Initiative: African Health Sovereignty in a Reimagined Global Health Governance Architecture.
In a passionate address to African leaders, global health stakeholders, and policymakers, President Mahama stressed the urgency of achieving true health sovereignty across the continent.
“Every malaria case prevented is a day of work regained. Every maternal death avoided is a family stabilized. Every vaccinated child is a future secured,” he declared, drawing applause from the audience.
He argued that Africa must no longer be a passive recipient of global health solutions, but an active architect of its own health destiny.
“The COVID-19 pandemic exposed how unprepared the global system was to protect vulnerable nations. We must not wait for the next crisis. Africa must lead – in vaccine production, digital health systems, and the financing of our own health priorities.”
The summit, which brings together key voices in health governance, is expected to adopt a continental roadmap toward health sovereignty, addressing issues such as vaccine equity, medical innovation, healthcare infrastructure, and workforce development.
President Mahama concluded his remarks with a call to action:
“Let this be the moment we rise. Let this be the summit where Africa finds its voice, its power, and its path to health independence.”
The Africa Health Sovereignty Summit continues through the week with panel discussions, bilateral meetings, and declarations set to redefine Africa’s position in global health leadership.
