President John Dramani Mahama has called on world leaders to prioritise preventive healthcare and coordinated global action to tackle rising health threats linked to climate change, environmental degradation and emerging diseases.

Speaking at the One Health Summit 2026 in Lyon, which he co-chaired with French President Emmanuel Macron, President Mahama stressed that safeguarding global health now requires moving beyond commitments to concrete action.

“The period of declarations must come to an end. The moment for coordinated effort is here,” he said, urging countries to adopt practical measures that protect both people and the environment.

At the heart of his address was a strong push for a prevention-led approach to healthcare, anchored on early detection systems, stronger public health structures, and integrated policies that recognise the connection between human, animal and environmental health.

President Mahama outlined a three-point “Call to Action,” placing emphasis on implementation of health protocols, integration of the “One Health” approach into national systems, and the creation of community-based early warning mechanisms to detect and stop disease outbreaks before they escalate into global crises.

He warned that climate change is accelerating health risks worldwide, contributing to the spread of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and disruptions in food systems.

“At the foundation of all these crises is climate change; everything is interconnected,” he noted.

Drawing from Ghana’s experience, the President highlighted how environmental challenges are already affecting public health. He pointed to pollution from illegal mining activities, which contaminates water sources, and agricultural threats that undermine food security and nutrition.

He also raised concern about plastic pollution, describing it as a growing health hazard with long-term consequences for ecosystems and human wellbeing.

A key issue in his address was inequality in global health systems. President Mahama noted that countries most vulnerable to health threats often lack the resources to respond effectively, calling for equitable access to financing, technology and data.

“The countries that are most at risk have the least resources to cope. This must change,” he said.

He emphasised that strengthening health systems in Africa is critical to global health security, noting that disease outbreaks anywhere can quickly become a threat everywhere.

President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s efforts to strengthen preventive healthcare through initiatives such as the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and expanded primary healthcare services, describing them as cost-effective strategies that reduce the burden on health systems.

He added that the “One Health” concept aligns with longstanding African knowledge systems that recognise the deep link between people, animals and the environment.

Referencing recent global health emergencies such as COVID-19, Mpox and Marburg, the President called for stronger international cooperation and resilient health systems capable of responding quickly to emerging threats.

“The decisions we make today will shape the future of global health security,” he said, urging leaders to deliver measurable outcomes that protect lives and promote long-term wellbeing.