Our CEO Dr Ambrose Talisuna joined other regional health leaders in a conversation on Africa’s health sovereignty and the future of its health systems in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on 5th October 2026. Dr. Ambrose Talisuna joined in the discussion around the conditions necessary for Africa to create health systems that are resilient, sustainable and genuinely based on African priorities
Among the key questions taking centre stage as health leaders, policymakers and partners gathered in Dar es Salaam for the Tanzania Health Summit 2026 was “What does it take for Africa to build health systems that are resilient, sustainable and truly driven by African priorities?” Among the voices contributing to the conversation was Dr Ambrose Talisuna, our CEO, who joined the opening-day discussions on strengthening Africa’s health systems in a changing global health landscape.
Under the Summit theme, “Building Health Sovereignty and Strengthening Health Systems in a Changing Global Order,” discussions explored what health sovereignty means for African countries and what must be done to move from ambition to action.
Our CEO’s contribution centered on a simple but important message ;
“Africa must continue strengthening its own institutions, systems and capacity to shape its public health future”
He highlighted the importance of African-led institutions and structures in responding to the continent’s health priorities, while recognising the need for stronger collaboration, sustainable financing and partnerships.
For Dr Ambrose, the changing global health environment presents both challenges and an opportunity for Africa to rethink how it organises, finances and delivers public health.The conversation also touched on the importance of ensuring that African countries are better positioned to determine their own priorities and develop solutions that respond to the realities of their populations.
From conversation to action
The discussions in Dar es Salaam come at a time when countries across the continent are navigating a rapidly changing global health environment, including shifting financing priorities and increasing demands on national health systems.The Summit provides an important platform for stakeholders to ask difficult questions, share experiences and identify practical pathways towards stronger and more sustainable health systems.
For APHF, the conversation directly reflects its commitment to forging partnerships and mobilising resources and investments for critical African public health initiatives in support of Africa CDC and the African Union’s health sovereignty agenda.
As the Summit continues, one message remains clear, that Africa’s health sovereignty will depend not only on the systems we build, but also on the strength of the African institutions, partnerships and leadership driving them.
APHF remains committed to being part of that journey !
