UNHLM2025: NCD Alliance Ghana urges bold action on NCDs and mental health

A Defining Moment in Global Health

We stand at a pivotal point in history. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions are no longer just health issues—they are profound threats to development, prosperity, and human dignity. Today, these conditions account for over 74% of global deaths. Behind these numbers lie millions of stories: children growing up without parents, communities losing their most vibrant contributors, and national economies drained by preventable illnesses.

With the 4th United Nations High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health fast approaching, there is an urgent call for governments—especially in low- and middle-income countries—to show real leadership and turn commitments into action.

It’s Time to Put People Before Profits

For too long, commercial interests have shaped global health policies. The influence of industries profiting from tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages has undermined progress. These products are not just commodities—they are the root causes of countless diseases and early deaths.

This must end. Leaders must demonstrate the courage to prioritize people’s health over industry profits. The future of our societies depends on it.

From Commitment to Action: The Political Will We Need

The tools and solutions to fight NCDs and mental health conditions already exist. The WHO Global Action Plan on NCDs 2013-2030 provides a comprehensive roadmap. Yet, many countries continue to falter—not for lack of knowledge, but for lack of political will.

Now is the time to accelerate implementation. Leadership must go beyond rhetoric. It must be reflected in bold policy changes, sustained investments, and measurable outcomes. Every day of delay is a missed opportunity to save lives and safeguard our economies.

Financing the Fight: Health Taxes as a Moral and Economic Imperative

One of the biggest obstacles to effective NCD and mental health care is financing. Governments often cite limited resources—yet fail to seize revenue opportunities through health taxes. This contradiction must be addressed.

Taxation of harmful products like tobacco, alcohol, and sugar-sweetened beverages is both economically smart and morally right. These taxes reduce consumption, save lives, and generate funds to strengthen health systems and expand mental health services. It’s time to stop viewing health taxes as a burden and recognize them as a key investment in national development.

Access to Care: A Right, Not a Privilege

Equity in health care remains elusive for many living with NCDs and mental health conditions. Inadequate access to medicines, diagnostics, and treatment—especially at the primary care level—keeps millions trapped in cycles of illness and poverty.

Universal Health Coverage is meaningless if it does not include accessible and affordable NCD and mental health services. Governments must:

• Eliminate barriers to essential services and medicines
• Invest in primary health care
• Train health workers to deliver continuous, people-centered care

We must place those living with these conditions at the center of health policy and recognize their right to dignity and opportunity.

The Eyes of the World Are Watching

Communities, civil society, health professionals, and young people around the globe are calling for decisive leadership. History will remember whether leaders chose courage over complacency—whether they put the health of their people above short-term political or economic gains.

The upcoming UN High-Level Meeting is a litmus test of our collective will. Leaders must:

• Show up with clarity of purpose
• Commit to scaling up proven interventions
• Increase domestic financing
• Shield public policy from industry interference

Anything less would be a disservice to those suffering now and to future generations.

Let This Be the Turning Point

Let this meeting be remembered as the moment global leaders drew a line in the sand. The moment they declared that public health will prevail over commercial influence. The moment when words became actions, and promises turned into progress.

The tools are here. The evidence is overwhelming. The responsibility now lies with those in power.

Lead boldly. Act decisively. Deliver for your people.

Contact:
Labram Musah
National Coordinator, NCD Alliance Ghana
📞 0243 211854

Godfred Tweneboah
Policy and Research Officer, NCD Alliance Ghana

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