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.

Two giant tortoises stand side-by-side in an open grassy field under a bright sky. The image focuses on the ancient animals, showcasing their large domed shells and thick, textured legs in a natural setting with a background of lush green trees.
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Jonathan the tortoise reveals genetic secrets to 194-year lifespan

Jonathan, an Aldabra giant tortoise and the world’s oldest known terrestrial animal, is providing scientists with groundbreaking insights into the biological mechanisms of aging. At approximately 194 years old, Jonathan resides on the island of St Helena, where he has lived since his arrival in 1882. Researchers have recently focused on his genome to understand how he has managed to survive through nearly two centuries of history, outliving every other land animal currently on record. The study of Jonathan’s genome has identified specific genetic variations that appear to be responsible for his extraordinary resilience. Key findings include enhanced mechanisms for DNA repair, robust mitochondrial function, and superior telomere protection. These cellular systems are critical because they prevent the typical degradation that leads to aging and disease in most species. By maintaining functional cellular systems over such a long period, Jonathan’s biology offers a roadmap for understanding how longevity is encoded at the molecular level. Despite his advanced age, Jonathan remains a symbol of endurance. While he is now mostly blind due to cataracts and has lost his sense of smell, his handlers report that he maintains a strong appetite and remains active within his habitat. His documented history, which began when he was brought to St Helena in the late 19th century, makes him a unique subject for longitudinal biological study. He has become a beloved figure on the island, representing both a living historical monument and a scientific marvel. The research into Jonathan’s longevity has implications that extend beyond the world of herpetology. By identifying the specific genes that allow a vertebrate to live nearly 200 years, scientists hope to gain insights that could eventually inform human health and the treatment of age-related conditions. Jonathan’s ability to resist the common biological failures associated with aging provides a rare opportunity to study a successful model of extreme longevity in the animal kingdom, potentially unlocking secrets to a longer, healthier life for other species.

Benjamin Tormadogo calls for increased mental health investment
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Benjamin Tormadogo calls for increased mental health investment

Benjamin Tormadogo, a mental health nurse, has issued an urgent call for the Ghanaian government and private sector to significantly increase investment in mental healthcare. Speaking on JoyNews, Tormadogo highlighted a reported 21% rise in demand for mental health services across the country. He argued that the current infrastructure and funding levels are insufficient to meet this growing need, leaving many citizens vulnerable to untreated psychological conditions and inadequate access to professional treatment. Tormadogo expressed concern over the national tendency to prioritize physical health over mental wellbeing. This imbalance, he noted, has led many individuals to seek help at prayer camps rather than professional medical facilities. Without access to specialized care, these individuals remain at risk of neglect or harmful practices. He emphasized that the state must provide adequate national attention and dedicated funding to bridge the gap between mental and physical health services to protect the rights of patients. The nurse also addressed the critical role of the workplace in shaping mental health. He urged both employers and employees to recognize that professional environments significantly influence overall wellbeing. Tormadogo called on managers to implement healthier workplace conditions and proactive support systems to prevent burnout and stress-related disorders. By fostering a supportive culture, he suggested that organizations could improve productivity while safeguarding the mental health of their workforce. To prevent the continued suffering of those with mental health challenges, Tormadogo concluded that a coordinated national strategy is essential. He warned that without immediate intervention and a shift in societal attitudes, the mental health crisis in Ghana could worsen. The call serves as a reminder that mental health is a fundamental component of public health that requires sustainable funding and professional oversight to ensure the safety and dignity of all patients.

Ghana Alliance for Mental Health demands 5% disability employment quota
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Ghana Alliance for Mental Health demands 5% disability employment quota

The Ghana Alliance for Mental Health and Development has issued a call for urgent reforms to improve social inclusion for persons with disabilities and mental health conditions. Central to their proposal is the implementation of a 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities (PWDs) within local government structures. This demand was highlighted during celebrations marking World Mental Health Day, where the group emphasized that meaningful inclusion starts with economic empowerment and representation in the public sector. Beyond employment, the Alliance is advocating for the full operationalization of the Mental Health Fund. The group argues that without a dedicated and functional funding mechanism, the delivery of mental health services across the country will continue to face significant resource gaps. They called on the government to allocate the necessary resources to improve service delivery and to ensure that mental health care is accessible at all levels of the healthcare system, particularly in underserved communities. Transparency in public spending was another focal point of the Alliance's statement. The group urged the government to provide clear accountability for expenditures related to disability and mental health services. By challenging existing systemic barriers, the Alliance believes that the state can better support individuals with lived experiences. They also emphasized that the media and local communities play a critical role in advocating for these changes and challenging the social stigma that often marginalizes those with mental health conditions. The statement follows ongoing discussions about the rights of PWDs in Ghana and the need for legislative backing to enforce inclusive policies. The Alliance noted that empowering individuals through employment not only benefits the individuals themselves but also strengthens the social fabric of local communities. Moving forward, the group intends to engage further with policymakers to ensure that the 5% quota and the Mental Health Fund are treated as immediate priorities in the national development agenda.

Mark Kurt Nawaane commends NHIA for increasing claim payments to GH‵83.1m
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Mark Kurt Nawaane commends NHIA for increasing claim payments to GH‵83.1m

Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, has commended the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for significantly accelerating the disbursement of insurance claims. Speaking during a recent working visit to the authority, Dr. Nawaane highlighted a substantial increase in the volume of claims processed, which has improved the financial liquidity of healthcare providers and enhanced patient access to essential medical services across the country. Data provided during the visit showed a remarkable upward trajectory in claim payments under the current administration. In 2025, the NHIA processed approximately GH‵27.8 million in insurance claims. This figure rose sharply to GH‵83.1 million during the final two quarters of 2026 alone. Dr. Nawaane noted that this rapid disbursement is a critical step toward ensuring that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) remains a reliable safety net for Ghanaians seeking healthcare. Despite the positive financial performance, the Health Committee Chairman acknowledged that the system still faces significant hurdles. He specifically pointed to reported leakages within the claims process and other operational inefficiencies that threaten the sustainability of the health fund. Dr. Nawaane urged the leadership of the NHIA to strengthen its internal controls and adopt more robust technological solutions to mitigate these losses and ensure that every cedi is utilized effectively for patient care. The Chairman concluded by calling for closer collaboration between the NHIA and the Health Committee to address these ongoing challenges. He emphasized that the efficient management of health funds is vital for achieving universal health coverage. By streamlining the payment process further and eliminating financial waste, the authority can better support the national goal of providing affordable and accessible healthcare for all citizens.

Kobby Kyei launches campaign for the emotional wellbeing of Ghanaian boys
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Kobby Kyei launches campaign for the emotional wellbeing of Ghanaian boys

Kobby Kyei, a prominent online journalist and blogger, has initiated a new advocacy effort aimed at addressing the mental health and emotional needs of boys in Ghana. Speaking on the show Lifestyle with Rosie, Kyei challenged the prevailing cultural norms that pressure young males to suppress their emotions. He highlighted the "man up" culture as a significant barrier that prevents boys from seeking help or reporting abuse, arguing that the societal focus on the protection of girls has often left boys without a voice or a support system. During the discussion, Kyei shared personal anecdotes from his childhood to illustrate the hidden struggles many boys face. He pointed out that boys are frequently subjected to various forms of abuse, including sexual assaults by trusted figures, but are often discouraged from speaking out. The cultural expectation that they must remain stoic and strong frequently results in deep-seated psychological trauma. Kyei’s campaign, which has gained visibility through his social media platforms, seeks to break this silence by providing a dedicated dialogue for boys to share their struggles safely. The initiative aims to create a more balanced approach to gender-based advocacy in Ghana. By fostering a culture where boys feel comfortable expressing vulnerability, Kyei hopes to dismantle the damaging stereotypes that lead to long-term mental health issues. He stressed that creating supportive environments is essential for the holistic development of all children, ensuring that the unique challenges faced by boys are no longer ignored in national conversations about abuse and emotional wellbeing.

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John Mahama to build three psychiatric hospitals in three regions

President John Mahama has announced government plans to construct three additional psychiatric hospitals to expand the reach of mental health services across Ghana. The new facilities are intended to decentralize psychiatric care, which has historically been concentrated in the southern part of the country. By establishing these specialized hospitals, the administration aims to ensure that mental health support is more accessible to citizens regardless of their geographical location. The proposed hospitals will be located in the Ashanti, Northern, and Volta Regions. This strategic placement is designed to serve the middle and northern belts of the country, reducing the need for patients and their families to travel long distances to existing facilities like the Accra, Pantang, and Ankaful Psychiatric Hospitals. This expansion is a key component of the government's broader strategy to integrate mental health more effectively into the national healthcare delivery system. In addition to the infrastructure announcement, President Mahama addressed the critical issue of human resource gaps within the health sector. He specifically encouraged young Ghanaians to pursue training and careers in specialized health professions, noting that an increase in qualified personnel is essential to staff the new facilities and address broader staffing shortages. The President emphasized that specialized training is vital for the long-term sustainability of the country's healthcare improvements. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance mental health coverage and provide a more robust framework for treating psychiatric conditions nationwide. By combining infrastructure development with a focus on professional training, the government seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma often associated with seeking mental health care in Ghana.

Stephanie Benson recounts family history of breast cancer
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Stephanie Benson recounts family history of breast cancer

UK-based Ghanaian singer Stephanie Benson has opened up about her family's long and tragic history with breast cancer, highlighting the personal toll the disease has taken across multiple generations. Benson revealed that she lost her mother, grandmother, and aunt to the illness, a series of losses that eventually shaped her own medical decisions. Following her own breast cancer diagnosis, the jazz performer opted for a double mastectomy to address the hereditary risks and safeguard her future health. The singer shared poignant details about the loss of her mother, who succumbed to the disease at the age of 48. At the time of her mother's passing, Benson was only 26 years old, an experience that left a lasting impact on her perspective regarding health and early intervention. This pattern of breast cancer within her immediate family provided a clear indication of a hereditary predisposition, which later influenced her proactive and decisive approach to treatment when she faced the same diagnosis herself. Upon receiving her diagnosis, Benson chose to undergo a double mastectomy without hesitation. This surgical procedure, which involves the removal of both breasts, is often recommended for individuals with a high genetic risk or a strong family history of the disease to prevent recurrence or the development of new tumours. By sharing her journey, Benson contributes to the ongoing public discourse in Ghana and beyond regarding breast cancer awareness and the critical importance of understanding family medical history in managing long-term health outcomes.

John Dramani Mahama recognized for health leadership at Berlin summit
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John Dramani Mahama recognized for health leadership at Berlin summit

President John Dramani Mahama has been honored at the 2026 World Health Summit in Berlin for his outstanding leadership in global health. The recognition comes as Ghana asserts a more independent stance on international health policy, advocating for domestic sovereignty over national health priorities. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, representing the President at the summit, emphasized that sustainable health outcomes must be driven by individual nations rather than external donors or international organizations. During his address at the summit, Akandoh detailed Ghana's recent decision to reject a $109 million health compact with the United States. The government cited significant concerns regarding national health data security, financing obligations, and potential infringements on domestic regulatory authority. President Mahama had previously warned that the terms of the agreement posed risks to the country's ability to regulate its own health sector independently. The Minister argued that global health systems should be developed from within countries to move away from a model of dependency on external aid. To illustrate Ghana's commitment to self-reliance, the Minister highlighted flagship domestic programs such as the Mahama Cares initiative and the implementation of free primary healthcare. These projects are designed to build a resilient national health system capable of handling emergencies through domestic capacity and localized strategy. Akandoh called for a new era of international cooperation that respects national autonomy, urging a shift toward a more equitable global health architecture where policies are led by nations rather than designed for them by outside entities. The award and the accompanying policy declarations signal a shift in how Ghana engages with global health partners under the current administration. By prioritizing country-led health priorities and domestic financing, the government aims to set a precedent for other developing nations seeking to balance international cooperation with national sovereignty. The Berlin summit provided a platform for Ghana to advocate for a global health framework that prioritizes equity and local resilience over prescriptive external assistance.

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Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery to remove localized lung nodule

Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo surgery at the beginning of this week to remove a localized nodule in his lung. The 71-year-old leader of the Catholic Church shared the news personally during his Sunday prayers, explaining that the nodule was detected early during a recent routine medical examination. The announcement comes as a surprise to many, as the Pontiff has maintained a robust public schedule and has not previously disclosed any major health concerns during his papacy. A spokesperson for the Pope confirmed that the surgical procedure is intended to be focused specifically on the localized area identified by doctors. The medical team anticipates a swift recovery, estimating that the Pope will be able to return to his regular duties within approximately one week. This positive prognosis is bolstered by the Pope's overall health profile; since his election, he has been noted for his stamina and his commitment to an active lifestyle that includes regular sports and physical exercise. Despite the upcoming medical intervention, there are currently no plans to cancel or postpone the Pope's international engagements. Most notably, he is still scheduled to lead a two-week tour of South America next month. The trip is considered a cornerstone of his upcoming agenda, and his intention to proceed as planned signals high confidence in the success of the surgery and the speed of his rehabilitation. Observers will be watching closely as the Pontiff balances his recovery with the heavy demands of his global office.

Nana Yaa Aninwaa Boddom leads free breast cancer screening in Ejisu
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Nana Yaa Aninwaa Boddom leads free breast cancer screening in Ejisu

Nana Yaa Aninwaa Boddom, the Kontire Obaapanin of Ejisu Besease, has partnered with the Magmina Foundation to launch a breast cancer awareness and free examination exercise in the Ashanti Region. The initiative, held at Madona Hospital, was organized to commemorate the start of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Under the theme "Together, we are stronger," the campaign provided clinical screenings and health education to women and young ladies, emphasizing that the disease is not a death sentence when detected early. During the event, Nana Yaa Aninwaa Boddom stressed the life-saving importance of early detection and urged participants to avoid self-medication. She encouraged residents to prioritize professional medical consultations over unverified treatments. Nurse Specialist Abigail Ababio supported the drive by providing detailed education on symptoms and prevention techniques. She notably pointed out that while the disease primarily affects women, men are also susceptible and should remain vigilant about changes in their health. Local participants expressed appreciation for the exercise, noting that such health interventions are vital for rural communities where access to specialized care can be limited. The Magmina Foundation indicated that the initiative is part of a broader effort to improve women's health and dismantle the misconceptions and stigma that often prevent patients from seeking timely medical intervention. Following the high turnout, community members have called for the expansion of the program to reach more individuals across the municipality. The organizers reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing health education, stating that regular screenings remain the most effective strategy for reducing breast cancer mortality rates in Ghana.

Hawawu Abdul Karim screens 110 Mamobi residents in health drive
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Hawawu Abdul Karim screens 110 Mamobi residents in health drive

Broadcast journalist Hawawu Abdul Karim, popularly known as Young Pioneer, organized the second edition of the Zongo Health Campaign in Mamobi, Accra, on October 10, 2026. The initiative provided free medical screenings to more than 110 residents, focusing on breast cancer awareness and general health indicators. Held in partnership with the Accra Newtown Islamic Hospital, the event sought to improve access to healthcare information and early detection services for underserved populations. During the screenings, medical professionals identified three participants with breast lumps and several others with significantly elevated blood sugar levels. The medical team advised those with identified lumps to undergo further clinical assessments and diagnostic tests to determine the nature of the growths. Beyond physical examinations, the campaign served as a platform to educate residents on the importance of regular check-ups and the management of chronic conditions like diabetes. The inspiration for the campaign originated from a viral TikTok video discussing breast cancer awareness, which highlighted the need for targeted health education within Zongo communities. To enhance the reach and impact of the message, Karim has collaborated with religious leaders and community influencers to normalize discussions about women's health. This approach leverages local leadership to break down cultural barriers and encourage more women to participate in life-saving screenings. As the campaign moves forward, organizers aim to maintain the momentum of health advocacy through continued community engagement. By bringing medical services directly to the residents of Mamobi, the Zongo Health Campaign addresses the logistical and financial barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking early care. The initiative highlights a growing trend of media-led social interventions designed to support the national healthcare system in reaching vulnerable urban populations.

NHIA urges amendment of Health Insurance Act for primary healthcare
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NHIA urges amendment of Health Insurance Act for primary healthcare

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has called on Parliament’s Health Committee to expedite the amendment of the National Health Insurance Act, 2012 (Act 852). This legislative change is intended to provide the necessary legal framework to support the government’s Free Primary Healthcare initiative. Dr. Kwesi Djokoto, the NHIA Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations, formally made the request, noting that the Ministry of Health is already working on the revisions to align the law with current national health delivery goals. According to Dr. Djokoto, the proposed amendment is critical for addressing persistent operational challenges that threaten the sustainability of the National Health Insurance Scheme. Key among these issues are claims leakages and the prevalence of illegal co-payments, where healthcare providers charge patients for services and medicines already covered by the insurance. By strengthening the legal framework, the NHIA aims to enhance its enforcement capabilities, more effectively prosecute fraudulent actors, and ensure that the Free Primary Healthcare policy benefits the public without illegal financial barriers. Beyond legislative reforms, the NHIA is seeking financial support for its long-term operational stability and infrastructure. Dr. Djokoto requested that the committee prioritize capital budget funding for 2027 to maintain and improve the authority's physical and technical facilities. He highlighted that the NHIA has already achieved significant efficiency gains through digital interventions. These technological upgrades have successfully reduced the claims processing turnaround time to 20 days, enabling the authority to maintain a consistent schedule of monthly payments to healthcare providers nationwide.