First Lady Mahama calls for holistic health, empowerment for African women

Lordina Dramani Mahama, the First Lady of Ghana, has urged African leaders and global partners to increase funding for healthcare, education, and women's economic empowerment to guarantee a brighter future for the continent. In a statement by the Office of the First Lady, Mahama stressed the necessity of constructing robust healthcare systems that can effectively serve every mother and child, incorporating maternal care, HIV prevention, early detection, nutrition, and other crucial life-saving services.

During the "Passing the Baton" session at a high-level Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) side event in New York, the First Lady recalled the OAFLAD's establishment 25 years ago during a critical time when the HIV and AIDS pandemic required decisive and unified African leadership. Mahama highlighted that while healthcare improvements are vital, they are not sufficient on their own; education, women's economic empowerment, and gender equity are also crucial to building healthier families, stronger communities, and more prosperous nations.

She emphasized that when mothers are healthy, young girls are protected, and women are empowered to earn their own living, the positive effects extend throughout entire communities and boost national prosperity. Mahama reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to incorporating maternal healthcare, youth empowerment, and gender equity into its national development strategy to ensure no woman or child is left behind.

She called on her fellow First Ladies to harness the organization's collective power and build strong global partnerships, stressing that access to quality healthcare, dignity, and economic opportunities must no longer be considered privileges but as guaranteed rights for every woman and child across Africa.