President John Dramani Mahama has urged the international community to deepen collaboration and ensure fair distribution of resources, noting that a resilient and prosperous Africa should be seen as an asset to global development rather than a risk.

Delivering remarks as co-chair of the high-level segment of the One Health Summit in Lyon on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, he drew attention to existing inequalities in global health readiness and the allocation of essential resources.

He emphasised that strengthening healthcare systems across Africa would have far-reaching benefits beyond the continent, contributing positively to global stability and well-being.

The President also advocated improved access to funding, technology, and innovation, particularly for vulnerable regions seeking to build more resilient health systems.

Touching on the urgency of reforms, he called for greater political will to accelerate global health initiatives.

The summit brings together world leaders, policymakers, and health experts to tackle interconnected challenges such as disease control, environmental threats, and global health security.

“Regrettably, as I speak with you today, countries that are most at risk have the least resources to cope. This must change.The world must face the stark and uncompromising fact that a healthy and thriving Africa is no threat to anyone. It will be a positive force for global progress 

“We must therefore ensure fair access to financing, technology, data, and innovation. We need to enhance research and knowledge sharing. We must support countries in building resilient systems to detect, prevent, and respond effectively,” he added.

“Although we have discussed it, we have been slow in developing the necessary infrastructure for delivery. Let’s master the political will to integrate our fragmented regulatory environment and let Lyon be the turning point,” he noted.