Ghana’s First Lady, Lordina Dramani Mahama, has called for greater investment in African women’s health and empowerment, arguing that healthcare improvements must go hand in hand with education, economic opportunity and gender equity.
Speaking at a high-level event organised by the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) in New York, Mrs Mahama urged African leaders and international partners to adopt a broader approach to improving the lives of women and girls.
The event, held at the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice under the theme “A Legacy of Leadership: Delivering for Women and Girls,” brought together African First Ladies and a First Gentleman to discuss the organisation’s priorities for the next 25 years.
Maternal Healthcare Must Go Beyond Hospitals
Mrs Mahama said Africa needs resilient healthcare systems capable of reaching mothers and children, particularly those in underserved communities.
She called for maternal healthcare to be integrated with HIV prevention, early screening, nutrition and other essential services.
The First Lady recalled that OAFLAD was established nearly 25 years ago when the HIV and AIDS pandemic required coordinated action by African leaders.
She said the same commitment is needed to address the challenges currently facing women and children.
“Health cannot be addressed in isolation. Education, women’s economic empowerment, and gender equity are essential to creating healthier families, stronger communities, and more prosperous nations.” - Mrs Mahama
Keeping Girls in School Is a Health Priority
Mrs Mahama stressed that protecting girls from harm and ensuring they remain in school are just as important as improving access to medical care.
She argued that women also need opportunities to earn sustainable incomes and participate fully in economic life.
“When a mother is healthy, when a young girl is shielded from harm and kept in school, and when a woman is empowered to build her own livelihood, the transformative ripple effects lift entire communities and drive national prosperity.” - Mrs Mahama
Her remarks placed education and livelihoods alongside healthcare as priorities for OAFLAD’s next phase.
Ghana Reaffirms Commitment to Women and Children
The First Lady said Ghana remains committed to integrating maternal healthcare, youth empowerment and gender equity into its national development agenda.
She urged her counterparts to use OAFLAD’s collective influence to mobilise stronger partnerships with governments and international development organisations.
Mrs Mahama maintained that access to healthcare, dignity and economic opportunity should be guaranteed for women and children across the continent rather than treated as benefits available only to a few.
The New York gathering formed part of OAFLAD’s preparations for its 25th anniversary in 2027, with members reviewing the organisation’s contribution to women’s and children’s wellbeing and discussing its future direction.
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