Lesotho’s Deputy Prime Minister Calls for Urgent Health Investment at U.S.–Africa Summit

Speaking at the 17th U.S.–Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola, Lesotho’s Deputy Prime Minister Justice Nthomeng Majara delivered a stirring appeal for greater investment in Africa’s health sector—particularly with a focus on the continent’s rapidly growing youth population.

Majara addressed a gathering of global leaders, policymakers, and business stakeholders, warning that failure to act decisively could compromise Africa’s future development. “Africa is home to approximately 1.5 billion people, making it the second most populated continent after Asia,” she said. “By 2030, that number will rise to 1.7 billion—with nearly 60% of the population under the age of 25.”

This youthful demographic, she emphasized, is both a massive opportunity and a looming challenge. “This youthful population presents immense potential,” she declared. “But without proper investment, especially in health, we risk losing that potential to disease, lack of opportunity, and preventable challenges.”

Majara spotlighted key public health threats disproportionately affecting young Africans, including a surge in Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS. These issues, she noted, demand urgent and targeted responses—particularly in rural regions where access to healthcare remains severely limited.

“Lesotho, like many African countries, faces serious inequality in healthcare access between urban and rural areas,” she said. “To build resilient health systems, we must act now. We must invest in health infrastructure, digital health systems, and local innovation. This will reduce our reliance on imported medical solutions and ensure that no one is left behind.”

Her message was in strong alignment with the summit’s 2025 theme, “Pathways to Prosperity: A Shared Vision for U.S.–Africa Partnership,” which emphasizes sustainable development through collaboration in sectors such as health, energy, infrastructure, and innovation.

Majara called on African governments, international donors, and private sector leaders to collaborate and prioritize health equity as a core element of economic progress. “Strong, accessible healthcare systems are not just about saving lives—they’re about enabling productivity, fostering innovation, and securing our shared future,” she concluded.

As the summit continues to promote partnerships between the United States and African nations, Majara’s call to action has amplified the conversation on how health investments today can safeguard prosperity for generations to come.