President John Dramani Mahama brought humour to proceedings at the 66th Annual Conference of the West African Association of Surgeons on Monday (9 February) when he shared a personal anecdote during his address to participants.

Speaking to the gathering, President Mahama recounted that his wife underwent caesarean sections for the birth of all their children, adding jokingly that he was unable to remain in the operating theatre once the procedure began.

“My wife, for all our children, had to go through C-sections. As soon as the surgeon starts cutting her stomach I run out of the theatre. So I wonder whether I really deserve this gown,” the President said, drawing laughter from the audience.

The comment was made as President Mahama addressed medical professionals attending the conference, which brings together surgeons from across West Africa to discuss advances in surgical practice, training and healthcare delivery in the sub-region.