President Mahama and other African leaders
President John Dramani Mahama has called for a bold shift in how Africa—and the world—views healthcare, urging leaders to reframe health not as a financial burden, but as the foundation of inclusive economic growth.
According to the president, “It is through health that we build our ability to spend wisely, create jobs, reduce inequalities, and uphold the dignity of every Ghanaian—no matter where they live.”
Speaking at a high-level summit on African health sovereignty, Mr. Mahama argued that the time has come to reimagine the economies of well-being, emphasising that “health is wealth.”
He challenged the outdated notion that healthcare spending drains public resources, asserting instead that health investments are vital engines of productivity.
Quoting data from the World Health Organisation, he noted, “For every one dollar invested in health resilience, the return can be up to four dollars.
And in Africa, where a youthful and dynamic population is reshaping our economic landscape, that return is even greater.”
He further illustrated the real-world implications of this return on investment:
* “Every case of malaria that is prevented is not just a life saved—it’s a productive day gained.”
* “Every maternal death avoided is a family kept whole, and a society made stronger.”
* “Every child vaccinated is not just a medical intervention—it is the future of our nation secured.”
Mahama stressed that this is not simply a moral argument, but a strategic imperative.
“This is the return on health.
This is the case for action. And this is the future we must invest in—together.”
Africa Must Lead Its Own Health Transformation
President Mahama’s remarks also addressed the broader global health landscape, criticising outdated governance structures that continue to marginalise African voices.
“We gather here today with conviction—united by shared efforts and a collective refusal to accept Africa’s limited place in an outdated global health order,” he said.
Framing the moment as one of reckoning and opportunity, he emphasised that the current global crises—including war, pandemics, and climate shocks—are exposing the fragility of existing systems.
“The world has changed. But global health governance has not kept pace with this change,” he remarked.
The president called for a redesign of global health architecture—one that includes African priorities, innovations, and leadership.
“We must move beyond systems that only react in times of crisis.
We must build systems that generate resilience, produce equity, and amplify the dignity and aspirations of our people.”
Ending on a rallying note, Mahama said, “This is our moment to lead, and we must rise to it—together.”
