The African Union (AU) Extraordinary Summit on Universal Health Coverage will commence in Accra on July 21, 2026. This significant gathering will feature a major Call to Action on Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Survival. President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, who serves as the AU Champion for Maternal and Child Health, will lead this crucial initiative.
The side event, organized in partnership with the Accra Reset, aims to accelerate efforts to reduce preventable deaths. These deaths disproportionately affect mothers, newborns, children, and adolescents across the African continent. The focus is on implementing practical solutions to improve health outcomes for these vulnerable populations.
This summit is a key part of Ghana's broader commitment to regional health initiatives. It aligns with the nation's ongoing efforts to strengthen its own healthcare system and expand access to quality services. The event will bring together heads of state, policymakers, health experts, and development partners from across Africa. They will discuss strategies for achieving more robust and equitable health systems continent-wide.
President John Dramani Mahama, as the host of the summit, will highlight Ghana’s advancements in healthcare. He will detail the country's reforms and investments designed to broaden access to quality healthcare and achieve universal health coverage. Ghana's hosting of this summit underscores its dedication to collaborating with other AU member states.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President’s Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, confirmed Ghana's commitment. He stated that Ghana aims to develop practical, people-centred solutions to improve health outcomes across Africa. This reflects a shared vision for a healthier and more prosperous continent.
The summit will also address a range of other critical health challenges facing Africa. These include the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. Maternal mortality, a persistent issue, will also be a key discussion point. Non-communicable diseases and neglected tropical diseases will receive attention as well, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the health agenda.
Ghana's government has formally welcomed all attending heads of state, delegates, and stakeholders. This welcome reaffirms the nation’s commitment to working with partners. The shared goal is to advance universal health coverage across the entire African continent. This collaborative approach is essential for tackling complex health issues effectively.
The discussions at the summit are expected to influence national health policies and resource allocation. Member states will likely commit to new targets and strategies for improving maternal and child health indicators. The outcomes will be closely watched by international health organizations and development partners. Their support is crucial for implementing the proposed interventions.
This event builds on previous AU declarations and health frameworks. It seeks to translate policy into tangible improvements in the lives of African citizens. The focus on preventable deaths underscores the urgency of the situation. Effective implementation of the Call to Action could significantly reduce mortality rates among mothers and children. This would represent a major step forward for public health in Africa.