Video Message to Delegates of the 2026 UN Social Forum: Equitable Access to Healthcare
As the international community prepares for the 2026 United Nations Social Forum in Geneva, Switzerland, the need to advance equitable access to healthcare has become increasingly urgent. The Forum’s thematic sessions address critical issues, including declining international health financing, national health policies, access to essential medicines and medical equipment, healthcare in armed conflict, and inclusive digital health transformation.
These issues reinforce a fundamental principle: access to healthcare is a human right, not a privilege determined by income, location or social status. Health diplomacy can strengthen South–South cooperation by bringing together civil society organisations, academic institutions and healthcare professionals across developing countries to address shared health challenges.
For many women, girls and underserved communities across Africa, accessing essential healthcare remains a challenge. Financial constraints, inadequate health infrastructure, limited health information and geographical barriers continue to prevent many people from receiving timely and appropriate medical care.
The African Women Mentoring and Inspiring Initiative (AWMII) was established to create pathways to self-discovery for African women, with free medical services at the heart of its work.
Through community-based health outreaches, health education, preventive screening and support for vulnerable women and girls, AWMII works to bridge the gap between healthcare needs and access to essential services. Its interventions reflect the understanding that empowering women must include protecting their health, dignity and overall well-being.
AWMII’s work also recognises the connection between health, education, gender equality and sustainable development. A girl whose health needs are neglected may struggle to participate fully in education and pursue her aspirations. Same for a woman without access to essential medical services, she faces barriers to economic participation, family well-being and personal development.
By bringing health interventions closer to communities, AWMII contributes to preventive healthcare, health awareness and the promotion of more inclusive approaches to development. Its community engagement also helps highlight the realities of people who are often underrepresented in policy discussions.
Connecting Community Action with Global Commitments.
The five thematic sessions of the 2026 United Nations Social Forum provide an opportunity to strengthen the connection between international human rights commitments and the everyday experiences of vulnerable populations.
AWMII recognises that sustainable progress requires collaboration among governments, international organisations, healthcare providers, development partners and civil society. While community organisations contribute through advocacy, outreach and direct support, governments, international and local partners must strengthen health financing, improve infrastructure and ensure the availability and affordability of essential medicines, vaccines and medical equipment.
Digital health solutions also present opportunities to extend healthcare services, provided that access is inclusive and concerns relating to affordability, privacy and digital literacy are addressed.
In situations of armed conflict and humanitarian emergencies, protecting healthcare services and ensuring access to essential medical supplies are equally critical to preserving human dignity and supporting recovery.
For AWMII, these global discussions are directly relevant to the realities of the communities it serves. They affirm the importance of placing people with focus on women and girls, at the centre of healthcare policies and development interventions.
As preparations continue for the 2026 United Nations Social Forum in Geneva, AWMII through Institut De Diplomatie Publique calls for renewed commitment to equitable healthcare through sustainable financing, stronger partnerships, accessible medical services and policies that protect the rights of underserved populations.
Our collective responsibility is not just to acknowledge the right to health, but to translate it into practical action that saves lives, prevents avoidable suffering and enables individuals to live with dignity.
AWMII remains dedicated to advancing this vision.
Healthcare must not be a privilege for the few. It must be an accessible reality for all.
Dr Nissi Ikenna-Amadi is the Founder and Executive Director of the African Women Mentoring and Inspiring Initiative (AWMII), an organisation committed to creating pathways to self-discovery for African women, with free medical services at the heart of its work. Her advocacy focuses on equitable healthcare access, women's empowerment, human rights and sustainable development.
Dr.Nissi Ikenna-Amadi
