Mahama Rejects US Health Compact, Says Terms Were Humiliating

President John Dramani Mahama has defended the government’s decision to reject a proposed health compact from the United States, describing some of the terms attached to the deal as humiliating.

According to the President, the United States offered approximately $100 million to support Ghana’s healthcare needs under the proposed agreement. However, the compact reportedly included a requirement that would have granted access to the health records of Ghanaians.

President Mahama said he rejected the condition, with the decision receiving the full backing of Cabinet.

Speaking at an engagement organised by the Council on Foreign Relations on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the President stressed that Ghana would not compromise the privacy and dignity of its citizens in exchange for financial assistance.

He maintained that Ghana must protect its national interests when negotiating international partnerships, regardless of the financial benefits involved.

The President further stated that Ghana would not become a “dumping ground” under his administration, emphasising the need for partnerships that respect the country’s sovereignty and the interests of its people.

The development has reignited discussions about data privacy, international health financing and the conditions attached to foreign assistance to developing countries.