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.

Greater Accra Regional Hospital launches maternal care simulation training
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Greater Accra Regional Hospital launches maternal care simulation training

The Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital) has launched a specialized obstetric emergency simulation training program for resident doctors and midwives to enhance emergency management skills and reduce maternal mortality. This initiative focuses on high-stakes clinical scenarios, allowing medical staff to practice life-saving interventions in a controlled, risk-free environment. By prioritizing hands-on experience, the hospital aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical demands of the labor ward. The three-year program is a collaborative effort involving Canada’s IWK Medical Centre and Dalhousie University, with financial backing from IDAC. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of care, including technical procedures like vaginal deliveries and breech births, alongside critical non-technical skills such as leadership, teamwork, and clear communication. These soft skills are essential during medical crises where coordination among staff is just as vital as clinical expertise. Medical professionals participating in the training have expressed significant enthusiasm for the hands-on approach, noting that it has already bolstered their confidence in handling complex delivery complications. By practicing as a team, midwives and doctors can refine their collaborative responses, ensuring a more seamless transition to real-world emergencies. This partnership represents a long-term commitment to improving healthcare delivery and maternal outcomes at one of Ghana's primary regional facilities.

A healthcare worker wearing full personal protective equipment administers a vaccine to a young child at an outdoor clinic. The setting features blue canopies and chairs, with other medical staff and community members visible in the background, illustrating a public health campaign.
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Gavi mobilizes $50m for Ebola vaccine trials in DR Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently facing its most severe Ebola outbreak on record, with official reports indicating more than 9,000 confirmed cases and over 4,000 deaths. This unprecedented scale of infection has placed immense pressure on the country's healthcare system and highlighted the critical need for a more robust medical response. Because the current outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, existing vaccines—which are primarily effective against the Zaire strain—have been unable to provide the necessary level of protection for the population. To address this urgent gap, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has announced the mobilization of $50 million to fund a comprehensive health response and support clinical trials for new vaccine candidates. These trials, which feature vaccines developed by Moderna and the University of Oxford, are scheduled to begin by the end of October. This financial and technical surge is seen as a vital step in providing health workers with the tools needed to halt the transmission of the virus in the most affected regions. In addition to the scientific hurdles, the response effort is complicated by significant security challenges and the need for intense community engagement. Volatile conditions in some areas of the DRC have made it difficult for health teams to detect new cases and conduct the necessary contact tracing to contain the spread. Health experts emphasize that while the new vaccines are a promising development, their success will depend on the ability of international and local teams to operate safely and build trust with local communities. As the clinical trials prepare to launch, the focus remains on integrating these new medical tools into a broader public health strategy. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, as the success of the Oxford and Moderna candidates could provide a critical template for managing future outbreaks of different Ebola strains. For now, the priority remains reaching the thousands already affected and ensuring that the upcoming trials can proceed without interruption to save lives in the DRC.

President John Mahama is captured delivering a formal address from behind a silver podium. He is dressed in a black long-sleeved outfit, standing against a backdrop featuring a yellow wall with a Gye Nyame symbol and a red flag.
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John Dramani Mahama announces plans for Ghana vaccine production hub

President John Dramani Mahama has announced the government's intention to establish a vaccine production hub in Ghana to significantly strengthen the domestic pharmaceutical industry. Speaking during a meeting with traditional leaders from the Western North Region, the President detailed plans to transform Ghana into a regional center for medical manufacturing. The initiative aims to drastically reduce the nation's reliance on imported medical supplies and ensure the country is better prepared for future health challenges. The decision to pursue local vaccine production is rooted in the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. President Mahama highlighted that the global health crisis exposed critical vulnerabilities across Africa, particularly regarding the timely acquisition of life-saving vaccines. He emphasized that the lessons learned from that period have necessitated a shift toward health sovereignty, ensuring that Ghana is better equipped to protect its population without total dependency on foreign imports or international aid. Beyond immediate public health benefits, the proposed production hub is part of a comprehensive strategy to expand local manufacturing and stimulate economic growth. By investing in this infrastructure, the government expects to create high-skilled jobs and enhance technical expertise within the pharmaceutical sector. President Mahama noted that breaking the cycle of dependency on foreign medical products is essential for the country's long-term resilience and industrial development. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to fortify health systems across the African continent. By establishing these facilities, Ghana intends to position itself as a key player in the regional pharmaceutical market, providing essential medical products to neighboring nations. The President underscored that strengthening local capacities today is the most effective way to respond to future public health emergencies and ensure national security in the health sector.

Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye endorses Mahama Cares healthcare initiative
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Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye endorses Mahama Cares healthcare initiative

The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has expressed strong support for the government's Free Primary Healthcare Programme and the Mahama Cares initiative. Speaking at the Seventh Development and Social Services Consultation Forum, the Moderator lauded these flagship health policies for their potential to transform the lives of vulnerable Ghanaians and enhance national healthcare outcomes. Rt. Rev. Dr. Kwakye specifically highlighted the initiatives' focus on preventative care, noting that early intervention is key to managing the country's health burden. He emphasized that the programmes would provide significant financial relief for patients suffering from chronic diseases, who often face high costs for long-term treatment. By removing financial barriers at the primary level, the Moderator suggested that more citizens would be encouraged to seek medical attention before their conditions worsen. The endorsement carries significant weight given the Presbyterian Church’s extensive involvement in Ghana’s medical sector. The Church currently operates numerous hospitals and clinics across the country and is a major provider of health worker training. Rt. Rev. Dr. Kwakye reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to collaborating with the government to improve services, particularly in underserved and rural areas where the Church’s facilities often serve as the primary source of medical care. The forum concluded with a call for robust partnerships between religious bodies and the state to advance the goal of Universal Health Coverage. Participants emphasized that the success of the Mahama Cares and Free Primary Healthcare initiatives would depend on sustained collaboration and efficient resource management to ensure that quality healthcare reaches every corner of the country, regardless of a patient's economic status.

A large audience of professionals, likely health workers, seated in a conference hall during a formal event. Many attendees are wearing lanyards and some are looking toward a stage or speaker, with media cameras and tripods visible in the background.
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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh links primary healthcare success to skilled workers

Ghana’s Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has asserted that the successful implementation of the government’s Free Primary Healthcare initiative depends heavily on the availability of a highly skilled and qualified workforce. Speaking at the fourth Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Health Sector Occupational Pension Scheme, the Minister highlighted that while infrastructure and policy frameworks are important, the human resource element remains the primary driver for improving access and service delivery across the country's health facilities. Mr. Akandoh explained that the integration of skilled professionals is not only vital for free primary care but also for the continuous enhancement of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He noted that while the nation has made significant strides in the training of various cadres of health personnel, the sector faces a persistent challenge in bridging the gap between training and employment. The Minister emphasized that ensuring every health professional is well-trained and appropriately deployed is essential to meet the evolving health needs of the Ghanaian population. Beyond workforce development, the Minister addressed the financial well-being of healthcare professionals as a factor in sector stability. He underscored the importance of effective governance within the health sector's pension scheme, stating that robust management of these funds is necessary to provide healthcare workers with the financial security they deserve upon retirement. He urged health professionals to take a proactive interest in their pension arrangements, ensuring they are fully engaged with the mechanisms in place to safeguard their future livelihoods. The call for a more proficient workforce comes as the government seeks to deepen universal health coverage through expanded primary services. By aligning professional training with employment opportunities and securing the financial futures of staff, the Ministry of Health aims to create a more resilient and motivated health sector. The Minister concluded by reiterating that a motivated and expert workforce is the backbone of any sustainable healthcare reform in Ghana.

KGL Foundation screens over 200 residents in Techiman for breast cancer and general health
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KGL Foundation screens over 200 Techiman residents for breast cancer

The KGL Foundation, in partnership with the Koranteng Memorial Clinic and AgricoHub, has provided free health screenings for more than 200 residents in Techiman to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative, held in October 2026, aimed to promote preventive healthcare and ensure the early detection of life-threatening conditions within the municipality. Participants, including local students and the elderly, received comprehensive evaluations for breast cancer, blood pressure, Hepatitis B and C, HPV, and various eye conditions. During the exercise, health experts focused on dispelling common myths and misconceptions that often prevent individuals from seeking professional medical help. Madam Elizabeth Korsah Koranteng of the Koranteng Memorial Clinic emphasized that early diagnosis is the most critical factor for effective treatment and survival. Supporting this view, Nii Ankonu Annorbah-Sarpei from the KGL Foundation reiterated the organization's long-term commitment to improving community health through such accessible interventions. Additionally, Mr. George Antwi Boasiako of AgricoHub highlighted the link between a healthy population and the economic productivity of the region. The screening program also featured a blood donation drive intended to bolster supplies at local health facilities for emergency transfusions. Among the participants was Thomas, an 18-year-old student, who noted that regular check-ups are vital for students to maintain their health and academic performance while away from their families. This collaborative effort underscores the growing importance of private-sector involvement in enhancing public health outcomes and fostering a culture of proactive medical care in Ghana.

A close-up photograph shows a person holding a smartphone with a distinctive pink protective case. The individual, partially visible, wears a denim jacket over a white top, set against a blurred green outdoor background.
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DawaHealth launches AI-powered DawaMom chatbot for Zimbabwe maternal care

Health technology firm DawaHealth has introduced DawaMom, an AI-driven chatbot designed to provide critical maternal health information to women in Zimbabwe. Operating primarily through WhatsApp, the service addresses significant gaps in the national healthcare system by offering instant medical guidance to expectant mothers who frequently face long waiting times at public facilities. The tool aims to ensure that distance or lack of immediate access to a doctor does not prevent women from receiving essential health advice. The DawaMom platform functions as a digital midwife, drawing from an authoritative database compiled from verified medical sources to ensure its responses are both accurate and culturally appropriate. Beyond answering general queries about health during pregnancy, the AI is programmed to identify signs of high-risk pregnancies, potentially saving lives by flagging complications before they become emergencies. When a user’s needs exceed the chatbot’s automated capabilities, the system facilitates direct connections with licensed healthcare professionals, bridging the gap between digital support and clinical intervention. Users such as Samantha Murungweni have highlighted the tool's effectiveness in navigating the uncertainties of pregnancy. By providing a reliable alternative to the crowded environment of public health centers, DawaMom reduces the physical and logistical burden on both patients and the overstretched medical workforce. The integration of the service into WhatsApp—a widely used messaging application in the region—lowers the barrier to entry for women across various socio-economic backgrounds, making essential healthcare information more accessible than ever before. Since its inception, DawaMom has successfully supported more than 20,000 users across Zimbabwe. DawaHealth has set an ambitious target to reach 50,000 women by 2026 as it continues to refine the AI’s capabilities and expand its database. This initiative reflects a broader trend of leveraging artificial intelligence to solve systemic infrastructure challenges in African healthcare, focusing on scalable technology to improve maternal and child health outcomes across the continent.

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Kpobikorpe MA 1&2 Basic School sensitizes girls on cervical cancer

Schoolgirls at Kpobikorpe MA 1&2 Basic School in the Ga West Municipality have participated in a sensitization program focused on cervical cancer prevention and reproductive health. Organized by the school’s Guidance and Counselling Unit, the initiative aimed to educate students on health risks and the importance of making informed health decisions. The program was conducted in collaboration with ActionAid Ghana and the Young Urban Women’s Movement to provide comprehensive support for the pupils. During the session, health educators addressed several critical topics, including menstrual health, the prevention of sexually transmitted infections, and the social and health implications of teenage pregnancy. Ms. Jennifer Amponsah, the Assistant Guidance and Counselling Officer, emphasized the necessity of creating a safe and supportive environment where girls can discuss sensitive reproductive issues without stigma. She highlighted that because cervical cancer remains a major health concern, providing early education is a proactive measure to protect the long-term well-being of the students. The initiative concluded with the establishment of a dedicated girls’ club to facilitate ongoing health education and peer support. In addition to lectures, the program featured practical health demonstrations and encouraged the students to prioritize their academic goals while practicing abstinence to prevent early pregnancy. Organizers stressed that improving health awareness among young girls requires a collaborative effort involving parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals to ensure the message of prevention reaches the wider community.

Two white Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulances belonging to the National Ambulance Service of Ghana are parked in an outdoor lot. The vehicles are labeled for the Domeabra-Obom and Weija-Gbawe constituencies, showcasing the fleet used for emergency medical services in the region.
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National Ambulance Service restores Domeabra-Obom and Weija-Gbawe ambulances

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has successfully restored two grounded constituency ambulances to full operational status, serving the Domeabra-Obom and Weija-Gbawe constituencies. This restoration is a key achievement under the "Operation Restore Fleet" initiative, a strategic programme designed to rehabilitate broken-down emergency vehicles and return them to the frontline of medical service. The two vehicles are now fully equipped and ready for immediate deployment to their respective areas, ensuring that the infrastructure for emergency response is maintained and ready to serve the public. The return of these ambulances is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of emergency medical response within the Greater Accra Region. By increasing the number of active vehicles, the National Ambulance Service aims to improve access to timely pre-hospital emergency care, which is often the deciding factor in patient survival during critical medical events. The initiative focuses on addressing the technical and mechanical challenges that previously sidelined these vehicles, thereby strengthening the overall operational capacity of the service and reducing the strain on other nearby units. Beyond immediate repairs, "Operation Restore Fleet" represents a commitment to the long-term sustainability of the nation's emergency healthcare system. The National Ambulance Service has emphasized that maintaining a functional fleet is essential for meeting the demands of a growing population and ensuring that constituencies have reliable access to medical transport as intended. These efforts are part of a broader mandate to provide professional and efficient emergency services to all Ghanaians, ensuring that life-saving interventions are available during accidents, maternal health crises, and other urgent medical situations.

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Builsa South District intensifies yellow fever surveillance

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has launched an intensified disease surveillance and public education campaign in the Builsa South District. This proactive response follows a confirmed yellow fever outbreak in the neighbouring Upper West Region. Although the district currently records no confirmed cases of the viral disease, health authorities are taking preemptive steps to prevent a cross-border spread and ensure the early detection of potential infections. District Director of Health Services, Mr. Emmanuel Kob-Puo, stated that the directorate is prioritising the training of health professionals to better identify and report suspected cases. These training sessions focus on clinical symptoms and the protocol for rapid notification to regional authorities. By equipping frontline workers with these skills, the district aims to reduce the time between initial suspicion and official diagnosis, ensuring any potential outbreak is contained before it can spread through the community. Alongside surveillance, the district is ramping up its routine immunization programmes. This includes a renewed focus on child vaccinations and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) shots for eligible girls. Mr. Kob-Puo emphasized the importance of these preventive measures and called on parents and guardians to cooperate by ensuring their children are fully vaccinated. Public education efforts are also being scaled up to help residents recognize symptoms and understand the critical role of vaccination in maintaining public safety. Despite these efforts, the health directorate faces significant operational hurdles that could impact its response capacity. Mr. Kob-Puo highlighted a persistent shortage of health professionals and a lack of adequate staff accommodation as major obstacles to healthcare delivery in the district. Nevertheless, he urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with health officials by reporting any unusual symptoms to the nearest facility promptly to protect the wider population.

Anna Lartey warns 65% of Ghanaians cannot afford healthy diets
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Anna Lartey warns 65% of Ghanaians cannot afford healthy diets

Nutritionist Professor Anna Lartey has revealed that approximately 65 percent of Ghanaians are unable to afford a healthy diet, while 43.5 percent of the population faces food insecurity. Speaking at the 2026 World Food Day celebration in Accra, Professor Lartey emphasized the urgent need for structural reforms to ensure that nutritious food becomes accessible and affordable for all citizens, particularly those in rural communities. She noted that the inability to access quality nutrition poses a significant threat to the nation's human capital and long-term development. During the event, which was supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Professor Lartey highlighted the critical link between diet quality and national progress. She argued that the current lack of access to healthy food is not just a health crisis but a barrier to education, labor productivity, and overall economic growth. To address these systemic challenges, she called on the government to honor the commitments made during the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit and move from policy discussions to tangible, actionable steps that impact the average Ghanaian. The professor's recommendations focused on revitalizing local food systems by promoting indigenous Ghanaian foods and increasing the domestic production of fruits and vegetables. She also urged the government to invest in research solutions to combat food waste, which remains a significant hurdle to achieving food security. The World Food Day event concluded with exhibitions of diverse Ghanaian cuisine and agrifood systems, showcasing the potential for indigenous solutions to bridge the nutrition gap if supported by a robust policy framework and improved market accessibility.

Cyber Security Authority urges health institutions to protect patient data
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Cyber Security Authority urges health institutions to protect patient data

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has called on health institutions across Ghana to prioritize the protection of sensitive patient information as the sector continues to transition toward digital systems. Speaking at the launch of a cybersecurity awareness week organized by the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, officials warned that the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure makes healthcare providers prime targets for cybercriminals. The event forms part of the 2026 National Cyber Security Awareness Month, a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting robust digital hygiene and resilience. Mrs. Mercy Araba Kertson, representing the Cyber Security Authority, emphasized that the shift to electronic health records and digital management systems requires a corresponding upgrade in security protocols. She noted that sensitive data, if compromised, could lead to severe consequences for both patients and the credibility of the institutions. During the session, Kertson highlighted the critical need for comprehensive staff training to recognize and mitigate common digital tactics used by attackers, such as phishing, which often serves as a primary entry point for broader security breaches. To combat these emerging threats, the CSA recommended the implementation of role-based access controls, ensuring that personnel only have access to information necessary for their specific duties. This measure, combined with strict adherence to cyber hygiene practices, is intended to create a layered defense strategy within the healthcare environment. A panel discussion featuring various CSA officials further explored the importance of building cyber resilience, stressing that institutions must be prepared not only to prevent attacks but also to respond effectively should a breach occur. As healthcare digitisation accelerates under the broader national digital agenda, the CSA remains focused on ensuring that technological progress does not come at the expense of data security. The collaboration between the Authority and major facilities like KATH highlights a growing recognition of the risks inherent in the digital age. Moving forward, the CSA expects health institutions to integrate cybersecurity into their core operational strategies to safeguard the privacy and trust of the Ghanaian public.