President John Dramani Mahama has called for bold global reforms in healthcare delivery, urging nations to move beyond rhetoric toward practical action in strengthening health systems.

Speaking at the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to building a resilient, people-centred and self-sustaining healthcare system anchored on expanded access and strategic investment in public health infrastructure.

He stressed the need for African health sovereignty, arguing that countries must develop the capacity to manage their own health systems rather than depend heavily on external support.

“We do not come to Geneva to mourn the past. We come to build a future where a country’s health is not a byproduct of charity, but a result of sovereign capability,” he said.

The President further called for practical global cooperation that translates commitments made at international forums into measurable improvements in healthcare delivery, particularly in developing countries.

His address forms part of broader discussions at the assembly on strengthening global health systems, pandemic preparedness, and equitable access to healthcare services.