Africa-CDC Director-General lauds Mahama’s leadership in healthcare delivery

Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, praised President John Dramani Mahama's leadership. He spoke at a press conference after visiting the President in Accra.

Dr. Kaseya was accompanied by Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Ghana’s Minister of Health. He expressed his admiration for President Mahama's efforts in transforming Ghana's health sector.

“I’m very impressed by President Mahama,” Dr. Kaseya said. He emphasized that someone from the African Union recognizes Ghana's achievements.

He plans to publish an article in the Lancet Journal to highlight these successes. It is important for the world to see progress in Africa.

Dr. Kaseya also commended Ghana’s local vaccine production efforts. Appointing a CEO for the National Vaccine Institute is a significant step forward.

“Minister, we are proud of you,” he stated, encouraging collaboration among countries. He thanked President Mahama for agreeing to record a message for Health Ministers meeting in Geneva.

He noted that support from organizations like the Gates Foundation will end in 20 years. The Gavi Vaccine Alliance will transition out by 2030 as well.

This situation calls for Africa to produce its own vaccines, he stressed. “We need to think independently,” he added about future funding challenges.

The two main agendas are local vaccine manufacturing and financing, according to Dr. Kaseya. During their meeting, President Mahama committed to championing these initiatives.

He assured support from the African Union and Africa CDC for Ghana’s efforts and experiences shared with others.

Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh highlighted Ghana's readiness to manufacture vaccines locally. The government has established a National Vaccine Institute for this purpose.

He mentioned leading pharmaceutical companies are already taking action in this area.

Mr. Akandoh noted that Dr. Kaseya’s visit aligns with President Mahama’s priorities for healthcare security and pandemic response.

He appreciated Africa CDC’s ongoing support, including $2.4 million aimed at strengthening primary healthcare systems in Ghana.

Currently, they have trained around 400 epidemiologists with assistance from Africa CDC funding of $400,000.