Ghana’s First Lady, Lordina Dramani Mahama, has called on African leaders, governments and international development partners to increase investments in healthcare, education and women’s economic empowerment to promote sustainable development across Africa.
Mrs Mahama made the call during the “Passing the Baton” session at a high-level Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) side event in New York.
The event, held at the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice, was organised under the theme “A Legacy of Leadership: Delivering for Women and Girls” and brought together African First Ladies and a First Gentleman to discuss the future direction of OAFLAD.
Reflecting on the organisation’s nearly 25-year history, Mrs Mahama said OAFLAD was established at a time when the HIV/AIDS pandemic required strong and coordinated leadership across the continent.
She noted that the same spirit of collective action remains important as African countries address current challenges affecting women, children and families.
The Ghana First Lady emphasised the need for strong and resilient healthcare systems that can provide quality services to mothers and children. She advocated for integrated maternal healthcare that includes HIV prevention, early disease screening, nutrition and other essential health services.
According to Mrs Mahama, improving healthcare outcomes must go hand in hand with investments in education, gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.
She stressed that empowering women and ensuring girls have access to education can contribute significantly to healthier families, stronger communities and economic development.
Mrs Mahama further reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to maternal healthcare, youth empowerment and gender equity, saying these priorities remain important components of the country’s national development agenda.
She urged African First Ladies and their partners to use their collective influence to strengthen global partnerships for women and children.
The First Lady said access to quality healthcare, dignity, education and economic opportunities should be treated as fundamental rights for women and children across Africa, rather than benefits available only to a limited number of people.
Source: newsthemegh.com