Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Aisha Hospital Achieves Historic IVF Birth and Launches New Dialysis Centre in Tamale
health|

Aisha Hospital Achieves Historic IVF Birth and Launches New Dialysis Centre in Tamale

Aisha Hospital in Tamale has marked a transformative milestone for healthcare in Northern Ghana with the successful delivery of its first baby through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and the official commissioning of a state-of-the-art Dialysis Unit. These developments represent a significant leap in specialist medical services for a region that has traditionally faced gaps in high-end clinical care. By bringing these advanced services to the Northern regional capital, the hospital is addressing critical health needs that previously required patients to undertake long and costly journeys to Accra or Kumasi. Founded in 2023 by Chief Dr. Doli-Wura Zakaria, Aisha Hospital was established with the specific mission of decentralizing specialist healthcare and making world-class treatments accessible to all Ghanaians. Dr. Zakaria described the recent achievements as a major breakthrough for the facility and the community it serves. The successful IVF delivery, in particular, showcases the hospital's technical capability and commitment to providing modern solutions for infertility, offering new hope to families across Northern Ghana who are seeking reproductive assistance. In addition to the IVF milestone, the launch of the new Dialysis Unit is set to provide vital relief for patients suffering from kidney-related ailments. Chronic kidney disease remains a significant health challenge in Ghana, and the availability of local dialysis services will drastically reduce the financial and physical burden on patients who require regular, life-sustaining treatments. This expansion reflects a growing trend of private sector investment in the nation’s healthcare landscape, specifically targeting underserved geographical areas to ensure more equitable access to life-saving technology. Looking ahead, Aisha Hospital has outlined an ambitious roadmap for further expansion and service diversification. Management has announced plans to introduce dedicated cancer care services by 2027, aiming to tackle the rising incidence of oncology cases in the region. With a long-term vision to establish additional specialist centers by 2030, the hospital is positioning itself as a hub for medical excellence in Northern Ghana, potentially curbing medical tourism while significantly improving long-term health outcomes for the local population.

National Health Insurance Authority Uncaps Levy to Drive 70% Coverage and Financial Sustainability
health|

National Health Insurance Authority Uncaps Levy to Drive 70% Coverage and Financial Sustainability

Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has reached a significant milestone, achieving 70% national coverage as of mid-2026. This progress is largely attributed to a landmark legislative amendment passed in April 2025, which uncapped the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL). Previously, funding for the scheme was capped at 25%, a restriction that often led to financial bottlenecks and delayed payments to service providers. The decision to uncap the levy has been hailed as a game-changer, providing the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) with the necessary fiscal space to ensure timely claims payments and improve resource allocation across the healthcare sector. The NHIS, established in 2003, remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s strategy for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in sub-Saharan Africa. Under the current administration of President John Mahama, the scheme has prioritized restoring public trust through proactive measures and digital innovations. By addressing the funding challenges that previously hampered operations, the NHIA has significantly reduced the backlog of payments to hospitals and clinics. This financial stability has encouraged more healthcare providers to remain within the network, thereby expanding the range of services available to subscribers, particularly in underserved communities. Beyond financial reforms, the NHIA has intensified efforts to protect vulnerable populations through initiatives such as Free Primary Health Care and targeted exemptions. A major focus of the current strategy is the eradication of illegal charges, or co-payments, where patients are asked to pay out-of-pocket for services already covered by the scheme. Through community outreach and enhanced monitoring, the authority is working to ensure that the benefits of the NHIS reach those who need them most without the barrier of unauthorized costs. As Ghana continues to work toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the evolution of the NHIS serves as a critical component of national development. The shift toward a fully funded, uncapped levy system positions the scheme to handle future health crises and a growing population. Moving forward, the NHIA aims to leverage further digital transformations to streamline registration and claims processing, ensuring that the trajectory toward 100% universal coverage remains on track while maintaining the quality of care provided to every Ghanaian.

Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ Faces Life-Threatening Cancer Battle as Family Pleads for Urgent Medical Assistance
health|

Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ Faces Life-Threatening Cancer Battle as Family Pleads for Urgent Medical Assistance

Veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, is currently facing a life-threatening health crisis as he battles stage-four cancer. The news of the legendary actor's deteriorating health came to light following an emotional appeal by his daughters, who revealed that their father is in a critical state and is struggling to secure continued medical care. The situation has sparked widespread concern among fans and colleagues across the West African entertainment landscape, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most celebrated cultural icons who have shaped the region's artistic identity over the decades. In a heart-wrenching social media post, the actor's daughters, Lima and Kira Taiwo, took to Instagram to seek help from the public and medical professionals. They shared the distressing news that several hospitals have reportedly begun rejecting their father, refusing to continue his treatment given the advanced stage of his condition. According to the family, some medical facilities have indicated they can no longer provide the necessary level of care, leaving the veteran actor in a precarious state without immediate options for intervention. This public outcry is a desperate measure to find a facility or team of specialists willing to take on his complex medical case and provide the necessary relief. Taiwo Hassan has been a cornerstone of the Yoruba film industry for over three decades, known for his disciplined roles and significant contributions to the cultural heritage of Nigerian cinema. His career has spanned hundreds of productions, earning him a place as a household name and a respected mentor to many younger actors. The appeal from his family is not just a call for financial assistance but a desperate search for medical experts who might offer a lifeline or more advanced palliative treatment options that could alleviate his suffering. The daughters' public cry underscores the dire nature of the diagnosis and the family's exhaustion of conventional medical routes in their search for a cure. As the story develops, the focus remains on whether specialized medical facilities or international support can be mobilized to assist the veteran actor in his time of need. This case once again brings to the forefront the systemic challenges faced by veteran entertainers who often find themselves in precarious positions when faced with catastrophic health issues later in life. The plea from the Taiwo family serves as a poignant reminder of the need for robust health insurance and support systems for those in the creative arts, while also demonstrating the enduring power of community and fan support in times of extreme personal tragedy.

Upper West Regional Health Directorate Launches Free Primary Healthcare Pilot to Tackle Health Inequalities
health|

Upper West Regional Health Directorate Launches Free Primary Healthcare Pilot to Tackle Health Inequalities

The Upper West Regional Health Directorate has officially launched the Free Primary Healthcare Policy in Wa, marking a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage in the region. This initiative is currently being piloted across ten districts and is specifically designed to bridge the gap in access to essential medical services between urban centers and underserved rural populations. By removing financial barriers at the primary level, the Directorate aims to ensure that every resident, regardless of their economic status, can receive necessary care without delay. This move aligns with broader national goals to decentralize quality healthcare and protect vulnerable citizens from catastrophic health expenditures. The launch took place during the Directorate’s Half-Year Health Sector Performance Review Meeting, where health officials gathered to assess the region's medical landscape. Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Josephat A. Nyuzaghl, underscored the importance of the policy by highlighting recent successes in the region, most notably a significant 45% reduction in maternal mortality. This improvement serves as a benchmark for the potential impact of the new policy, as the Directorate seeks to build on existing gains and further stabilize health outcomes for mothers and infants across the Upper West. The data suggests that targeted interventions are already yielding results, providing a strong foundation for the free healthcare rollout. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the Free Primary Healthcare Policy, Dr. Nyuzaghl and other health leaders have called upon local authorities and regional stakeholders to provide unwavering support. The success of the pilot program relies heavily on the efficient management of resources and the active participation of community leaders in monitoring service delivery. As the pilot progresses, the Directorate plans to use the data gathered from the initial ten districts to refine the policy’s implementation, with the ultimate goal of fostering a more equitable healthcare system that serves as a model for other regions in Ghana.

Jasikan Midwives Monica Fiati and Francisca Logosu Perform Emergency Roadside Delivery for Stranded Mother
health|

Jasikan Midwives Monica Fiati and Francisca Logosu Perform Emergency Roadside Delivery for Stranded Mother

In a remarkable display of professional dedication and quick thinking, two midwives from the Jasikan Municipal Hospital in the Oti Region successfully assisted a stranded woman in delivering her baby at a roadside junction. The incident, which occurred at the prominent White House Junction on August 15, 2023, saw Ms. Monica Fiati and Ms. Francisca Logosu respond to an urgent distress call to aid Ms. Mukaila Talahatu. The mother, who was in active labor, found herself unable to reach the medical facility in time, highlighting the unpredictable nature of childbirth and the vital importance of skilled birth attendants in emergency situations. According to reports, Ms. Talahatu had initially sought medical attention at the hospital earlier that day but was advised to return home. However, her condition progressed rapidly once she departed, leading to a critical situation when she became stranded during her subsequent attempt to reach the hospital. When the two midwives arrived on the scene at the roadside, they discovered that the delivery was already well underway, with the baby's head beginning to emerge. Despite the lack of a sterile clinical environment, Ms. Fiati and Ms. Logosu utilized their professional training to manage the delivery safely on-site, ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Following the successful roadside delivery, the midwives facilitated the immediate transfer of Ms. Talahatu and her infant back to the Jasikan Municipal Hospital for comprehensive postpartum care and observation. This successful outcome underscores the critical role played by healthcare professionals who go beyond the walls of their facilities to serve their communities. While the incident ended happily, it also brings to the fore essential discussions regarding the timing of medical admissions for laboring women and the continued need for robust emergency response protocols to support maternal health in rural and peri-urban areas across the Oti Region.

FDA Intensifies Crackdown on Unapproved Online Medicine Advertisements to Protect Public Health
health|

FDA Intensifies Crackdown on Unapproved Online Medicine Advertisements to Protect Public Health

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has announced a significant intensification of its monitoring activities aimed at curbing the unauthorized advertisement and sale of unapproved medicines across online platforms. Speaking at the FDA’s 2025 Annual Stakeholders Meeting in Accra, the Authority highlighted a concerning trend where traders, often without physical business locations, utilize digital marketing to bypass traditional regulatory checks. This move signals a proactive stance by the regulator to protect public health in an increasingly digitized marketplace. Deputy CEO of the FDA, Gayheart Mensah, emphasized that all food and drug advertisements must receive pre-approval from the Authority before being broadcast or published. He noted that the shift of commercial activities to digital platforms poses unique challenges for regulators who must now track decentralized marketing efforts. To address this, the FDA is actively monitoring both traditional media—such as radio and television—and digital channels to identify and stop unauthorized promotional content. The surge in online-only traders has necessitated a more agile regulatory approach to ensure that the products being marketed to the Ghanaian public meet stringent safety and efficacy standards. In terms of enforcement, the FDA is currently developing comprehensive guidelines specifically tailored to regulating online advertisements. While the Authority plans to implement administrative fines for entities found in violation of these standards, full enforcement on social media platforms is still being finalized. This transitional phase involves refining the legal framework to effectively capture the nuances of social media marketing and ensure accountability. Moving forward, the FDA’s strategy involves closer collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that the digital evolution of commerce does not compromise the health and safety of consumers.

FDA Identifies Ethemax as Chemical Used for Artificial Plantain Ripening at Madina Market
health|

FDA Identifies Ethemax as Chemical Used for Artificial Plantain Ripening at Madina Market

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has concluded a significant investigation into food safety practices at the Madina Market in Accra, identifying the chemical product "Ethemax" as the agent used by certain traders to artificially ripen plantains. The investigation was launched following reports and public concerns regarding the use of unauthorized chemicals to speed up the ripening process of food crops. By pinpointing Ethemax, the FDA has provided clarity on the specific methods employed by some vendors to bring produce to market faster than natural biological processes allow, highlighting a critical area of concern for urban food safety. This regulatory action was conducted as a joint operation between the FDA and the Environmental Health Unit of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly. The collaboration underscores a multi-tiered approach to local governance and public health, ensuring that municipal authorities and national regulators work in tandem to monitor market conditions effectively. During the exercise at the Madina Market, officials scrutinized the handling of produce and engaged with traders to trace the application of ripening agents, eventually confirming the use of Ethemax among specific groups of plantain sellers. The identification of Ethemax in a high-traffic urban market raises serious concerns regarding the potential health risks posed to the general public through the consumption of chemically treated produce. While the FDA has now concluded this specific phase of the investigation, the findings are expected to trigger broader regulatory reviews and stricter enforcement of food safety protocols across other major markets in the country. This case serves as a vital reminder of the necessity for continuous monitoring and the education of market traders on the dangers of chemical misuse, as the FDA continues its mission to protect the health and safety of Ghanaian consumers.

Mahama unveils 5-year drugs production plan - Targets 70% pharmaceutical import cut
health|

President John Mahama Unveils Five-Year Strategic Plan to Slash Pharmaceutical Imports by 70%

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a landmark five-year strategic plan to revitalize Ghana’s pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, targeting a 70 percent reduction in the country's reliance on imported medicines. Speaking at a Free Primary Healthcare durbar in the Upper East Region as part of his "Reset Agenda" tour, the President emphasized the critical need for domestic self-sufficiency. He noted that the current situation, where approximately 70 percent of drugs used in Ghana are imported, leaves the national health system vulnerable and creates unnecessary economic pressure. The new strategy will be implemented through close collaboration with the National Vaccine Institute and the Pharmaceutical Association of Ghana. By focusing on boosting local production capacities, the initiative aims not only to meet domestic healthcare demands but also to position Ghana as a major pharmaceutical export hub within the West African sub-region. This shift toward local manufacturing is expected to enhance health security, lower the cost of essential medicines, and create high-skilled employment opportunities for Ghanaian professionals in the science and technology sectors. Beyond pharmaceutical manufacturing, President Mahama highlighted broader investments intended to strengthen the nation's healthcare infrastructure. These include substantial financial support for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to ensure its long-term viability and the systematic distribution of medical equipment to hospitals and clinics in underserved areas. These efforts are part of the administration's broader commitment to achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that every Ghanaian has access to quality medical services regardless of their geographic location. The unveiling of this pharmaceutical roadmap marks a significant step in the government's efforts to build a resilient and independent healthcare economy. As the five-year plan rolls out, the administration intends to provide the necessary policy and financial incentives to empower local drug manufacturers to scale their operations. Ultimately, this strategic pivot is designed to secure Ghana’s health future and establish the nation as a leader in medical industrialization across the continent.

WHO Chief Alerts Global Community as DRC Ebola Outbreak Becomes Deadliest on Record with Over 2,300 Fatalities
health|

WHO Chief Alerts Global Community as DRC Ebola Outbreak Becomes Deadliest on Record with Over 2,300 Fatalities

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), describing it as the fastest-growing and deadliest epidemic in the country’s history. Since being declared on May 15, the virus has claimed at least 2,325 lives out of nearly 5,000 confirmed cases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that the situation remains "far from being under control," as the current trajectory of the epidemic surpasses all previous outbreaks in the region in terms of both speed and scale. The current crisis is primarily driven by the Bundibugyo strain, a variant of the virus for which there are currently no approved vaccines or treatments. The Ituri province has emerged as the epicenter of the crisis, accounting for 85% of all reported cases. Health authorities and the United Nations have expressed deep concern over the rapid spread, noting that treatment capacity is reaching a breaking point. Many isolation centers are operating at full capacity, and essential medical supplies are reportedly running low as frontline workers struggle to keep pace with new infections. Beyond the medical challenges, the response is being severely hampered by regional insecurity and deep-seated community mistrust. Many fatalities are occurring outside of formal healthcare facilities, a trend attributed to fear of treatment centers and general skepticism toward health interventions. This mistrust, combined with staff shortages and the constant threat of violence in affected areas, has made it increasingly difficult for response teams to track transmission chains effectively. The WHO currently assesses the risk of both national and international spread as "high," urging a more robust local and global response to contain the pathogen. Despite the grim outlook, efforts to find a medical solution are intensifying. Clinical trials for experimental vaccines and treatments are currently ongoing in the region, offering a glimmer of hope for future containment strategies. However, health experts maintain that until these tools are validated and deployed, the focus must remain on improving health infrastructure and rebuilding community trust. The international community is being called upon to provide the necessary resources and support to prevent the epidemic from crossing borders and causing further devastation across the African continent.

Trincomalee General Hospital Close-up shot of the giant yellow bladder stone
health|

Sri Lankan Surgeons Remove Record-Breaking 3.1kg Bladder Stone from Patient

Medical history was made in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, as surgeons successfully removed a massive bladder stone weighing 3.1kg (6.8lb) from a 55-year-old man. This extraordinary mass is believed to be the largest bladder stone ever documented, significantly surpassing the previous world record of 1.9kg (4.2lb) held by a patient in Brazil since 2003. The discovery occurred after the patient, who was already receiving hospital care following a stroke, complained of severe difficulty urinating, prompting further investigation by the medical team. The complex surgical procedure was led by Dr. Prahalahan Balakrishnan, who revealed that the stone measured approximately 17 centimeters in length—comparable in size to a large ostrich egg. Based on its size and composition, medical experts estimate that the stone had been developing within the patient’s bladder for five to ten years. Bladder stones typically form when the bladder does not empty completely, causing the remaining urine to concentrate and minerals to crystallize into hard masses. While many are small enough to pass naturally, a growth of this magnitude is exceptionally rare in modern medicine. Following the successful operation, Dr. Balakrishnan reported that the patient is in very good health and is recovering well from the surgery. Although the patient remains hospitalized to continue his rehabilitation for the stroke and other underlying conditions, his urological health has improved significantly. This landmark case serves as a remarkable example of surgical success in urology and highlights the extreme physical tolerance of the human body in enduring such significant internal mineral growths over a decade.

NTB / AFP via Getty Images Crown Prince Haakon of Norway gestures to a crowd. Photo: July 2026
health|

Norway’s King Harald V Hospitalized for Rare Blood Condition; Crown Prince Haakon Named Regent

King Harald V of Norway, the 89-year-old monarch and one of Europe’s longest-serving heads of state, has been admitted to the hospital for medical treatment following a medical examination. The Royal Court announced that the King will be on sick leave for an initial period of two weeks to undergo specialized care for ongoing health issues. During this interval, Crown Prince Haakon will assume the responsibilities of the throne as regent, ensuring the continuity of the monarchy's constitutional duties while his father recovers. The hospitalization is primarily due to complications arising from haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood condition characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells. According to reports, the King had been undergoing cortisone treatment for the condition, which subsequently led to significant fluid accumulation in his body. Medical professionals determined that inpatient care was necessary to manage the fluid retention and provide more intensive monitoring of his reaction to current medications. This latest medical development adds to a series of health challenges the aging monarch has navigated in recent years. In early 2024, King Harald underwent a successful procedure to have a permanent pacemaker installed following an infection he contracted during a private trip to Malaysia. His medical history also includes several previous hospitalizations for respiratory infections and other heart-related treatments, highlighting a period of increased fragility for the Norwegian sovereign. The King’s illness comes during a complex period for the Norwegian Royal Family. Other prominent members, including Queen Sonja and Crown Princess Mette-Marit—who has previously undergone a lung transplant—are also managing their own health concerns. Furthermore, the royal household has been navigating a period of public scrutiny and controversy involving the Crown Princess’s son. As the nation awaits further updates on the King's stability, the Crown Prince’s temporary regency marks a critical moment of transition for the royal house.

Getty Images Young man is looking into his briefs
health|

British Urological Surgeons Warn of Rising Risks and Lack of Regulation in Growing Penis Filler Market

The global cosmetic industry is witnessing a significant rise in male enhancement procedures, specifically penis fillers, as men increasingly seek to conform to evolving societal beauty standards. While some individuals report satisfaction with the results, medical professionals are raising serious alarms regarding the lack of regulation and the potential for life-altering complications. The trend highlights a growing segment of the cosmetic market that operates with far less oversight than more visible and established procedures like lip or facial fillers, creating a dangerous landscape for uninformed patients. The procedure typically involves the injection of hyaluronic acid, a temporary and dissolvable substance, to increase girth. In a notable case from Manchester, a man named Jason reported a 16% increase in girth following his procedure, citing a desire for a "balanced appearance" driven by modern pressures surrounding male physical ideals. However, these outcomes are far from guaranteed. Because these procedures are less regulated and sometimes performed in non-clinical settings, there is a massive variance in performance standards. While some men achieve their desired aesthetic, many others have suffered from botched injections leading to severe complications and permanent physical damage. The British Association of Urological Surgeons has expressed grave concerns over the safety and long-term effectiveness of these enhancements. Experts emphasize that there is currently a lack of definitive, peer-reviewed data regarding how these fillers interact with delicate urological tissue over extended periods. Unlike other aesthetic treatments, penis fillers lack the same level of public visibility and regulatory scrutiny, which has contributed to what some describe as a regulatory "wild west." Urologists are now calling for stricter guidelines and better education to prevent patients from falling victim to unqualified practitioners offering quick-fix solutions without disclosing the full scope of potential risks. Ultimately, the surge in interest underscores a shifting landscape in male self-image and the lengths to which individuals will go to meet perceived physical expectations. As the industry continues to expand, the medical community maintains that the pursuit of enhancement must be weighed against significant health risks. Potential patients are urged to prioritize safety over aesthetics by seeking advice only from qualified medical professionals and demanding transparency, even as the push for comprehensive industry regulation continues to gain momentum.