Mahama meets UNAIDS, ALMA leaders to strengthen Africa’s health future

President John Dramani Mahama has held high-level discussions with global health leaders as Ghana intensifies efforts to advance Africa’s health sovereignty and build more resilient healthcare systems across the continent.

The President met with Ms Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), and Ms Joy Phumaphi, Executive Secretary of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), to explore ways of strengthening public health delivery and accelerating progress toward Universal Health Coverage.

A key focus of the engagement was President Mahama’s Accra Reset agenda, which seeks to position Africa toward greater self-reliance in healthcare through local vaccine production, stronger health systems, and reduced dependence on external support.

President Mahama emphasised the need for African countries to take ownership of their health future by investing in sustainable solutions that respond to the continent’s unique health challenges.

The President also highlighted progress under Ghana’s Free Primary Health Care programme, which provides access to basic healthcare services at Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and polyclinics without requiring an insurance card.

The initiative forms part of Ghana’s broader commitment to expanding healthcare access and accelerating the country’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage.

Ms Byanyima commended President Mahama’s leadership and commitment to promoting health sovereignty for Ghana, Africa, and the wider Global South, noting the importance of strong political leadership in achieving equitable health outcomes.

The meeting comes as Accra hosts the African Union Extraordinary Summit on Health, bringing together African leaders and stakeholders to chart a renewed path toward health justice, equity, and improved healthcare outcomes for all citizens.

Through the Accra Reset vision, Ghana is positioning itself as a leading voice in the continental drive for a healthier, more self-sufficient Africa.