AHA Ghana Conference 2026
Where global innovation meets African implementation.
About the AHA Annual Conference
The AHA Annual Conference is the premier gathering for healthcare leaders, clinicians, researchers, innovators, and policymakers committed to transforming healthcare delivery across Africa. Hosted by the African Healthcare Association (AHA), this inaugural event marks the beginning of a powerful new tradition, one that unites global expertise with Africa’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
Building on AHA’s mission to strengthen health systems, expand access to quality care, and accelerate medical innovation, this conference brings together a dynamic community of practitioners and partners for two days of learning, collaboration, and impact.
Join us in Accra, Ghana, as we launch a landmark convening designed to elevate clinical excellence, foster cross-border partnerships, and shape the future of healthcare across the continent.
- Expert-led reviews of current treatment landscapes across key specialties
- Highlights of locally driven solutions and innovations transforming care across the continent
- Elevates African expertise and strengthens regional collaboration
- Inspires the next generation of healthcare leaders
AHA Ghana 2026 Focus Areas
Nine high-impact clinical specialties spanning the highest-burden conditions in African healthcare today.
Cardiology
Advances in cardiovascular diagnostics, prevention, and treatment with a focus on reducing Africa’s growing burden of heart disease through evidence-based care and early intervention.
Pediatrics
Strengthening child health outcomes by addressing infectious diseases, nutrition, neonatal care, and chronic conditions affecting children across the continent.
Oncology
Improving cancer detection, treatment, and survivorship through multidisciplinary collaboration, early screening strategies, and access to modern therapies.
Gastroenterology
Enhancing the diagnosis and management of digestive and liver diseases with emphasis on endoscopy, hepatitis, and GI cancers prevalent in African populations.
Infectious Disease
Addressing high-impact infectious threats, including HIV, TB, malaria, and emerging pathogens, through updated clinical guidelines and innovative public health approaches.
Hematology
Advancing care for blood disorders such as sickle cell disease, anemia, and hematologic malignancies with a focus on early diagnosis and improved treatment pathways.
Nephrology
Tackling the rising burden of kidney disease through improved screening, dialysis access, and strategies for preventing chronic kidney disease progression.
Women’s Health
Elevating maternal, reproductive, and preventive health by addressing disparities in care and promoting evidence-based practices across the female lifespan.
AI for Medicine
Exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance diagnostics, clinical decision-making, workflow efficiency, and health system performance across African settings.
Conference Schedule
Nine clinical specialty sessions, a special session on the African regulatory landscape, two product theaters, and optional pre-conference programming. Times shown are local Accra time (GMT).
Click any day to expand the full agenda.
Pre-Conference
Thursday
December 17, 2026
Thursday
December 17, 2026
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12:00–15:30Advisory Board MeetingSponsor This Session →Invitation only
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16:00–20:00Cultural ExperienceOptional pre-conference activity
Day 1
Friday
December 18, 2026
Friday
December 18, 2026
Morning
7:00 to 11:30
Morning
7:00 to 11:30
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7:00Breakfast in Restaurant
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8:00–8:15Welcome and Introductions
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8:15–9:00Session 1: CardiologyProfessor Blanche Cupido, MBChB · Cape Town, South Africa
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9:15–10:00Session 2: NephrologyDr. Erika Obada · Cameroon
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10:15–10:45Break
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10:45–11:30Session 3: PediatricsDr. Annie N. Kotto, MD · Philadelphia, USA
Afternoon & Evening
12:00 to 20:00
Afternoon & Evening
12:00 to 20:00
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12:00–14:00Lunch in Restaurant and Lounge
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12:30–13:15Product TheaterSponsor This Session →
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14:15–15:00Session 4: Women’s HealthDr. Amma Agyemang, MD, PhD · LSU Health, USA
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15:15–15:45Break
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15:45–16:30Session 5: Infectious DiseaseProfessor Mohamed El-Kassas · Cairo, Egypt
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16:45–17:30Session 6: GastroenterologyDr. Lewis Roberts, MD · Mayo Clinic, USA
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17:45–18:15Special Session: Regulatory Landscape in AfricaSpeaker to be announced
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18:30–20:00Sponsored DinnerSponsor This Session →
Day 2
Saturday
December 19, 2026
Saturday
December 19, 2026
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7:00Breakfast in Restaurant
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8:15–9:00Session 7: OncologyDr. Nesrine Mejri, MD · Tunis, Tunisia
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9:15–10:00Session 8: HematologyDr. Enam Sefakor Bankas, MBChB · Ghana
Dr. Shidestini Martinez, MD · LSU Health, USA -
10:15–10:45Break
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10:45–11:30Session 9: AI in HealthcareSpeaker to be announced
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12:00–13:00Lunch in Restaurant and Lounge
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12:30–13:00Product TheaterSponsor This Session →
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13:00–13:15Closing and Farewell
Tentative schedule. Subject to change as speakers and sponsors are confirmed.
Conference Speakers
Engage directly with a multidisciplinary lineup of leaders and experts representing cardiology, oncology, infectious disease, pediatrics, nephrology, women’s health, gastroenterology, and patient advocacy. These leaders bring deep clinical expertise and global perspective, all grounded in African realities.
Professor Mohamed El-Kassas
Hepatology · Cairo, Egypt
A world-renowned hepatology expert at Capital University in Cairo and a principal architect of Egypt’s historic elimination of Hepatitis C. With over 300 peer-reviewed publications, he currently serves as President of the SLMENA Foundation, leading regional efforts against MASLD. His global leadership includes serving on the IASL Global Council Board, the AHPBCC Executive Board, the WGO Hepatology Committee, and the Global NASH Council. A prominent advocate for the MENA region and Africa, he bridges clinical research and public health policy on the global stage.
Dr. Nesrine Mejri, MD
Medical Oncology · Tunis, Tunisia
Associate Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Tunis El Manar and Head of Medical Oncology at Abderrahmen Mami Hospital since 2025. Her expertise spans thoracic oncology, breast cancer, and multidisciplinary care. She has led several international phase III trials including INAVO122 and BENITO, and national studies such as LUNG-TUN. With over 50 peer-reviewed publications, 580+ citations, and an H-index of 13, she has contributed to national breast cancer guidelines and delivered over 150 conference presentations. Fluent in Arabic, French, and English.
Dr. Erika Obada
Preventive Nephrology · Cameroon
A pioneer in preventive nephrology in Africa, thanks to the development of innovative concepts such as the application of cindynics to nephrology, Care Papers (a multidisciplinary journal that makes medical topics accessible to the general public), and Prepa-Santé workshops (immersive and collaborative sessions between healthcare professionals and the general public). Practicing in Cameroon since 2018, she returned after a distinguished career spanning more than 10 years in France, including roles as Hospital Practitioner at the Paris Hospitals.
Professor Blanche Cupido, MBChB
Cardiology · Cape Town, South Africa
South African cardiologist, academic, and clinician at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital. Widely recognised for expertise in adult congenital heart disease, cardiac imaging, valvular heart disease, and heart failure. Currently Head of Echocardiography and Clinical Lead for Adult Congenital Heart Disease at Groote Schuur Hospital. A past President of the South African Heart Association (SA Heart) with strong focus on improving cardiovascular care and training on the African continent.
Dr. Lewis Roberts, MD
Gastroenterology & Hepatology · Mayo Clinic, USA
Peter and Frances Georgeson Professor in Gastroenterology Cancer Research, Consultant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, and Distinguished Investigator at the Mayo Clinic. Co-Principal Investigator of the Mayo Clinic Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) in Hepatobiliary Cancers. Author of over 500 articles. Serves as President of Africa Partners Medical and President of the Africa Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases Foundation. Founder of the Africa HepatoPancreatoBiliary Cancer Consortium.
Dr. Enam Sefakor Bankas, MBChB
Haematology & Patient Advocacy · Ghana
A haematologist and certified Project Management Professional with deep experience in laboratory medicine, clinical research, and health advocacy. As founder of Sickle Life and co-founder of Heale, she leverages nearly a decade of project management experience to improve the health and well-being of people living with sickle cell disease, thalassaemia, and other anaemias through public education, social support, and patient-centred care. An IT enthusiast, she also champions advances in haematological diagnoses and management through e-Health, m-Health, and AI solutions, bringing a unique blend of scientific expertise and patient advocacy.
Dr. Annie N. Kotto, MD
Pediatrics · Philadelphia, USA
A pediatrician with more than 20 years of clinical experience, affiliated with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware. She earned her medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University and completed her pediatrics residency at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Practicing in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, she brings a multilingual approach to patient care, fluent in English, French, and Spanish. Her commitment to children’s health spans both clinical practice and international collaboration, with a particular focus on advancing pediatric care across diverse communities.
Dr. Amma Agyemang, MD, PhD
Gynecologic Oncology · LSU Health, USA
Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at LSU Health New Orleans, specializing in gynecologic oncology. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Accra, Ghana, she earned her MD and PhD in immunology from Harvard, completed her residency at Boston Medical Center, and a T32 postdoctoral and clinical fellowship in gynecologic oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research focuses on immunotherapeutic strategies for ovarian cancer, the early detection of precancerous lesions in women living with HIV, and the shared cell signaling networks implicated in inflammation and gynecologic malignancy.
Dr. Shidestini Martinez, MD
Hematology/Oncology · LSU Health, USA
A Hematology/Oncology fellow at LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport with a passion for equity-driven care, medical education, and improving outcomes for underserved populations. She has a particular interest in sickle cell disease, with research and clinical experiences deepening her commitment to this historically marginalized patient population. A recipient of the Heart of Compassion Award for patient-centered care, she has held leadership roles including Ambulatory Care Clinic Hall Chief. She mentors aspiring minority physicians and advocates for cultural competency in medicine.
Why Attend AHA 2026?
This inaugural program is designed to be high-impact, practical, and deeply relevant to healthcare delivery across Africa.
- Review current global treatment landscapes across cardiology, oncology, infectious disease, pediatrics, women’s health, nephrology, and more.
- Explore African-led innovations and real-world implementation across diverse health systems.
- Participate in case-based, specialty-specific sessions tailored to the continent’s clinical needs.
- Connect with peers, industry partners, and global experts committed to advancing equitable healthcare.
- Engage in networking, exhibits, and sponsored educational sessions that foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Africa’s Healthcare Story Is Being Written.
Be In The Room.
Registration Details
Experience the future of African healthcare this December at the Inaugural AHA Annual Conference in Accra, Ghana, where global innovation meets African implementation. Over two days, clinicians, researchers, and industry leaders will review treatment landscapes, spotlight African-led advances, and drive meaningful change across the continent’s healthcare ecosystem.
African Clinicians
Free registration. Application required.
AHA Members
Non-clinicians | Industry $500
Non-Members
Full conference access
Sponsors and Partners
We welcome sponsors and partners to collaborate with us in shaping the future of healthcare in Africa.
Sponsorship Packages
Bundled Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum packages offer 15-30% savings and expanded benefits over the individual features below.
Individual Sponsorship Features
Each package combines several of the opportunities below at savings. They can also be selected on their own.
Exhibit Table$5,000▼
Dedicated space for product displays and live conversations, with direct access to attendees during networking and exhibit hours. Includes two complimentary badges and logo placement on the conference website.
Product Theater$20,000▼
A high-visibility, in-agenda, non-competing educational session. Sponsor-directed content and speakers, fully aligned to your strategic messaging, with prominent placement that maximizes attendance.
Advisory Board$60,000▼
A full-service, in-person event with 10 to 15 healthcare professionals. Tailored discussion on current and future treatment patterns, generating high-value evidence and real-world feedback on products, pipelines, and strategic direction.
Future of Africa Fellowship$7,500▼
Sponsor the attendance of 5 African healthcare professionals in training. Advances equitable access to knowledge and professional development, and positions your organization as a trusted partner in shaping Africa’s healthcare future.
Room Drop$1,000▼
Branded materials delivered directly to every guest room. Creates a focused, uncluttered touchpoint that reinforces your message well beyond the exhibit hall.
Wellness Station$1,000▼
High-visibility branding at a frequently visited attendee touchpoint. Continuous exposure throughout the event, ideal for increasing brand recall through repeated impressions.
For sponsorship inquiries:
Alima Tchafa, PhD MBA
Venue
Join us at the Marriott Hotel Accra, a premier five-star destination in the heart of Ghana’s capital. Just minutes from Kotoka International Airport, the hotel offers world-class hospitality, modern amenities, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Accra’s energy and culture.
Attendees will enjoy spacious rooms, exceptional dining, and seamless access to Accra’s business, cultural, and historical attractions. Join us for an unforgettable two days of learning, collaboration, connection, and cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in my registration?
Full access to all conference sessions across both days, conference materials, refreshment breaks, networking lunch on both days, and the welcome reception on Day 1. AHA Members also receive lifetime access to session recordings. Travel, accommodation, and dinner are not included; we recommend booking the Marriott Hotel Accra at our group rate.
How do African clinicians register for complimentary attendance?
African clinicians can register complimentary by submitting a brief application with country of practice, institution, and professional license. Our team reviews applications within two business days and sends a registration link if approved.
Do I need a visa to attend?
Visa requirements depend on your country of citizenship. ECOWAS citizens do not require a visa to enter Ghana. Many other countries are eligible for visa on arrival or e-Visa. We will provide visa support letters for confirmed registrants who need them; email us with “Visa support” in the subject line.
Will the conference be CME-accredited?
AHA Ghana 2026 is our inaugural conference and is not CME-accredited this year. CME accreditation is planned for the 2027 conference. All 2026 attendees will receive a Founding Cohort certificate of participation.
Where should I stay?
The Marriott Hotel Accra is our official conference venue. A discounted group rate is available for confirmed registrants. Booking details will be shared in your registration confirmation email.
Can I sponsor or exhibit at the conference?
Yes. We welcome sponsors and partners across exhibit, product theater, advisory board, room drop, wellness station, and Future of Africa Fellowship opportunities. Bundled packages save 15 to 30 percent. Email info@africanhealthcareassociation.com or visit our sponsorship page for details.
Do you offer group registration discounts?
Yes. Organizations registering 5 or more attendees can request a group rate. Email info@africanhealthcareassociation.com with the subject line “Group Registration” for details.
Who can I contact for more information?
Email info@africanhealthcareassociation.com or call +1 (800) 951-1265. Our team is happy to help with questions about registration, sponsorship, travel, or accessibility.
Your Host
Alima Tchafa, PhD, MBA
Founder & Conference Host
Dr. Alima Tchafa is a globally trained biomedical scientist and healthcare leader with more than 20 years of experience spanning basic, translational, and clinical research. She has led major Medical Affairs initiatives, supported national and international oncology clinical trials, and contributed to scientific strategy through extensive medical writing and communications work.
Educated across Africa, Europe, and North America, Dr. Tchafa holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering, and an Executive MBA, bringing a uniquely global perspective to healthcare innovation and systems strengthening.
Originally from Cameroon and now based in the U.S., she is deeply committed to expanding access to high-quality care across African communities. Her leadership is rooted in scientific rigor, cross-cultural collaboration, and a passion for empowering clinicians and health systems across the continent.
About the African Healthcare Association
The African Healthcare Association (AHA) is a mission-driven organization dedicated to transforming healthcare across the African continent through networking, education, and collaboration. AHA brings together clinicians, scientists, health executives, and industry partners to strengthen health systems, expand access to quality care, and support professional development across Africa and the diaspora.
Through monthly educational events, strategic partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives, AHA fosters a vibrant community committed to improving health outcomes and advancing medical excellence. The Association’s work spans clinical education, community health engagement, and cross-border collaboration, equipping healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and partnerships needed to drive meaningful change.
Questions about the conference?
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