Africa received $74 billion in aid in 2023 but lost $90 billion to illicit financial flows and another $55 billion to corporate tax exemptions, according to the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Speaking at the Africa Health Sovereignty Summit in Accra on August 5, 2025, he argued that Africa does not need charity but fair tariffs and stronger financial systems to retain and invest its own wealth.

“We cannot ignore the broader economy context in 2023 Africa received 74 billion US dollars in aid, but lost $90 billion to illicit financial growth, and $55 billion to corporate tax exemptions," he stressed.

Dr Ghebreyesus also noted that up to 17% of budgets in low- and middle-income countries remain unspent due to weak financial systems, while debt servicing continues to undermine investment in critical sectors like health and education.

“Private and philanthropic capital are important, but they must complement not replace Africa’s public financing. What’s more important is how effectively the money is used,” he said.

He emphasised the need for self-reliance, calling on African leaders to reshape global health governance and re-imagine a future where the continent owns its health priorities.

The summit brought together African leaders, policymakers, and global health stakeholders.

JKB/MA

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