Mahama hosts AU health summit in Accra to advance universal health coverage

Accra, Ghana, is hosting an African Union (AU) Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, bringing together leaders to discuss expanding universal health coverage and intensifying efforts against AIDS, tuberculosis, and other critical public health challenges across the continent.

The two-day summit, scheduled for July 21-22, 2026, convenes Heads of State, ministers of health, finance, and foreign affairs, along with officials from the AU Commission, Regional Economic Communities, development partners, civil society, youth representatives, and the private sector. The meeting's 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," underscores the broad scope of health issues on the agenda.

A statement from the Presidency on July 21, 2026, indicated the summit will assess Africa's response to health crises and adopt strategies to broaden healthcare access. The proceedings are divided into two phases: July 21 for experts to prepare technical reports, and July 22 for Heads of State to consider and adopt decisions, including a declaration to accelerate the AU Roadmap to 2030.

Ghana's hosting of this summit reflects its commitment to advancing healthcare dialogues in Africa and President John Dramani Mahama's dedication to improving health service accessibility. The nation has implemented initiatives such as the Free Primary Health Care Programme, removed funding caps for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and established the MahamaCares fund to support healthcare financing. The government is also investing in health infrastructure, training professionals, enhancing emergency preparedness, and boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

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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.