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.

Hawawu Abdul Karim organizes free health screenings for 110 Mamobi residents
health|

Hawawu Abdul Karim organizes free health screenings for 110 Mamobi residents

Broadcast journalist Hawawu Abdul Karim, popularly known as Young Pioneer, has organized a free medical screening exercise for more than 110 residents of Mamobi in Accra. Held on October 10 under the banner of the second edition of the Zongo Health Campaign, the initiative was conducted in collaboration with the Accra Newtown Islamic Hospital. The primary objective of the exercise was to facilitate early detection of chronic conditions and improve access to health information within the Zongo community, where such services are often urgently needed. The screening process uncovered several health concerns among the participants, most notably identifying three individuals with breast lumps. Additionally, medical staff recorded numerous cases of elevated blood sugar levels among the residents. Those identified with potential health issues received immediate medical advice and were referred for more comprehensive clinical assessments at health facilities. The medical team emphasized that early detection remains the most effective tool in managing conditions such as breast cancer and diabetes, which often go undetected without regular check-ups. The inspiration for the Zongo Health Campaign came from a social media video on TikTok that discussed the importance of breast cancer awareness. Recognizing a gap in information dissemination within her community, Karim launched the initiative to bring professional medical attention directly to the people. By focusing on local neighborhoods like Mamobi, the campaign seeks to demystify medical procedures and encourage a culture of proactive health management among women and the elderly in particular. Looking forward, the Zongo Health Campaign aims to institutionalize these screenings by building stronger partnerships with religious leaders and community influencers. Organizers believe that leveraging the influence of local figures will help sustain the conversation around breast cancer and other lifestyle diseases. This grassroots approach is intended to ensure that the vital message of health awareness reaches all corners of the Zongo communities, potentially saving lives through consistent advocacy and accessible medical support.

Rotary Club of Accra Ridge screens 700 residents in Kotoso
health|

Rotary Club of Accra Ridge screens 700 residents in Kotoso

The Rotary Club of Accra Ridge provided medical screenings and healthcare support to approximately 700 residents in Kotoso during a two-day outreach programme. Held on September 18 and 19, 2026, the event marked the fifth anniversary of the club's dedicated health initiative in the community. This year’s programme focused on bridging the healthcare access gap for vulnerable residents, offering a range of free services that many would otherwise struggle to afford. During the outreach, 139 individuals underwent comprehensive eye examinations, and 281 residents were assisted with the registration or renewal of their National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards. In addition to general health consultations and treatment for various medical conditions, the team distributed educational materials focused on sexual and reproductive health. These resources are part of a broader effort to empower the community with the knowledge necessary to manage their long-term well-being and health outcomes. Gretel Rejoice Asigbe-Tsriku, President of the Rotary Club of Accra Ridge, emphasized that the initiative is built on the belief that healthcare is a fundamental right. She noted that the club’s sustained presence in Kotoso over the last five years has allowed them to build trust and track the evolving health needs of the population. The outreach was supported by local partnerships and community volunteers, which ensured a streamlined process for the hundreds of people who gathered at the screening site. Community members expressed their gratitude for the intervention, highlighting how the free NHIS registration and medical care significantly reduce their financial burden. By integrating both immediate treatment and systemic support through insurance registration, the Rotary Club aims to leave a lasting impact on the health of Kotoso. The club intends to continue its annual outreach efforts, ensuring that preventive care and health education remain accessible to rural and underserved populations.

Prof. Samuel Akoriyea Kaba (4th from right), DG of GHS, presenting the items to Alhaji Alhassan Lawal (2nd from left), Bolgatanga Municipal Director of Health Services
health|

BasicNeeds-Ghana donates GH‵700,000 equipment to 42 health facilities

BasicNeeds-Ghana, a non-governmental organization, has presented GH‵700,000 worth of equipment to 42 health facilities to enhance mental health and psychosocial support services. The project focuses on improving counselling environments for pregnant women, adolescent girls, and new mothers across six regions in Ghana. By strengthening these facilities, the initiative aims to provide essential care for women dealing with the psychological impacts of HIV, tuberculosis, and gender-based violence. The distribution of resources covers 14 district hospitals and 28 sub-district health facilities, operating under both the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG). The equipment is intended to create dedicated, private spaces for counselling, which are often lacking in maternal health departments. According to Dr. Peter Badimak Yaro of BasicNeeds-Ghana, this integration is crucial for identifying mental health challenges early in pregnancy and during the postpartum period. Parallel to the physical donations, the project has focused on building the capacity of the local healthcare workforce. A total of 1,304 healthcare workers have undergone specialized training to recognize and manage mental health conditions among maternal health patients. These trained professionals have already screened nearly 18,000 pregnant women and new mothers, ensuring that those requiring psychosocial support are directed to the appropriate services. While the Ghana Health Service has expressed gratitude for the intervention and reaffirmed its commitment to mental health, Dr. Yaro urged the government to increase its own investment in the sector. He emphasized that mental health support must become a permanent and well-funded component of the national maternal healthcare framework to ensure the long-term well-being of mothers and children across the country.

Ghana Alliance for Mental Health and Development seeks 5% employment quota
health|

Ghana Alliance for Mental Health and Development seeks 5% employment quota

The Ghana Alliance for Mental Health and Development has officially proposed a 5% employment quota within local government structures for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and individuals living with mental health conditions. Making the call during the World Mental Health Day celebrations, the Alliance highlighted the urgent need for structural reforms to foster social inclusion and economic independence for vulnerable groups. The proposal aims to ensure that public institutions lead by example in creating accessible and equitable job opportunities across the country. Beyond employment mandates, the Alliance is urging the government to fully operationalize the Mental Health Fund. Although the fund was established by law to provide sustainable financing for mental health services, the group notes that its full potential has yet to be realized, hampering the delivery of essential care. They are calling for dedicated resource allocation to improve facility infrastructure and medication supply, while demanding greater transparency in how disability-related funds are managed and spent at the local level. The group also emphasized the role of community and media engagement in dismantling the persistent stigma surrounding mental health. By empowering individuals with lived experiences to share their stories and advocate for their rights, the Alliance believes Ghana can move toward a more inclusive society. These demands represent a broader push for the government to move beyond policy rhetoric and implement practical measures that guarantee the dignity and rights of all citizens, regardless of their mental or physical health status.

A person wearing surgical gloves holds a massive, round bladder stone with a textured, yellowish-pink surface. The individual is dressed in a mustard-yellow scrub shirt, and a bottle of hand sanitizer is visible on a table in the background. The image depicts the 880g stone recently removed from a patient by doctors in Kumasi, Ghana.
health|

Kumasi Hospital surgeons remove 880g bladder stone from 49-year-old man

A surgical team at Kumasi Hospital in the Ashanti Region has successfully performed a rare medical procedure to remove an 880-gramme bladder stone from a 49-year-old patient. The patient, identified as Akoto, had reportedly suffered from severe urinary issues and chronic pain for nearly 30 years before undergoing the life-changing surgery. This successful intervention marks a significant milestone for the facility's urological department and provides long-awaited relief for the patient. The bladder stone, which measured 11.8 cm in length, is being described by medical officials as one of the largest ever documented on the African continent. Dr. Samuel Koranteng Asante, the Chief Executive Officer of Kumasi Hospital, noted the rarity of the case, stating that the hospital's research into African medical literature has so far failed to find a comparable documented instance of a bladder stone of this size. While further verification against international medical databases is required to confirm its standing, the sheer mass of the stone has drawn significant attention from the local medical community. The patient's journey to recovery follows decades of discomfort. According to hospital officials, Akoto had endured persistent symptoms that significantly impacted his quality of life since his youth. The surgical team emphasized that the successful removal of the 880g stone not only addresses the immediate physical obstruction but also prevents further potential complications such as kidney damage or severe infections that often accompany long-term bladder stones. Following the procedure, the hospital administration issued a public health advisory regarding the prevention of such conditions. Dr. Asante and his team highlighted the critical importance of maintaining adequate hydration and seeking prompt medical attention for any urinary irregularities. They cautioned that while a stone of this magnitude is extraordinary, smaller stones are more common and can often be managed or prevented if caught early. The hospital urged the public not to ignore persistent pain or difficulty during urination, as early assessment is key to avoiding the need for major surgical interventions.

New CHPS compound to ease healthcare challenges in remote Nanumba North communities 
health|

Nasongdo CHPS compound opens to serve farming communities in Nanumba North

A new Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound has been officially inaugurated in Nasongdo, a community within the Chamba East Electoral Area of the Nanumba North Municipality. The facility is designed to provide immediate healthcare access to remote farming populations in the Northern Region, significantly reducing the distance residents must travel for essential medical services. Previously, community members in this part of the municipality faced significant challenges accessing basic care, often resulting in preventable health complications due to delayed treatment. The Nasongdo CHPS compound will serve several surrounding communities, including Tigbando Bengulbu, Kabulkora, Mangoase, Danbado Ukalnjabondo, and Biyundo. Local leaders have hailed the project as a vital intervention, particularly for addressing high rates of maternal mortality and pregnancy loss in the area. By bringing services closer to the people, the facility aims to eliminate the previous reliance on long, often difficult journeys to larger municipal centers for basic health needs, ensuring that pregnant women and children receive timely medical attention. The new facility is equipped to provide a range of healthcare services, including clinical consultations, outpatient care, and maternal health services. It will also serve as a hub for public health interventions and community-based educational outreach to promote better hygiene and disease prevention. According to municipal health authorities, the establishment of the compound is part of a broader mandate to ensure that underserved rural areas are not left behind in the national drive for universal health coverage. The presence of trained health professionals at the site is expected to drastically improve local emergency response times. The inauguration of the health center coincides with wider infrastructure improvements in the Chamba East Electoral Area, where new classroom blocks have also been established to bolster local educational standards. This integrated approach to community development, championed under President John Mahama’s administration, emphasizes the expansion of the CHPS model as a cornerstone of Ghana’s primary healthcare strategy. As the facility begins operations, it stands as a critical step toward improving health outcomes and providing a safer environment for families throughout the Nanumba North Municipality.

NHIA seeks Health Insurance Act amendment for free primary healthcare
health|

NHIA seeks Health Insurance Act amendment for free primary healthcare

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has formally petitioned Parliament’s Health Committee to amend the Health Insurance Act of 2012 (Act 852) to provide legal backing for the government’s Free Primary Healthcare initiative. Speaking during a recent engagement with the committee, Dr. Kwesi Djokoto, the NHIA’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, emphasized that the current legislation requires updates to align with new policy directions and to address persistent operational hurdles that hinder effective service delivery across the country. The proposed amendment is designed to tackle critical issues such as claims leakages and the prevalence of illegal co-payments at various healthcare facilities. Dr. Djokoto noted that the Ministry of Health is already actively working on the legislative revisions and urged the parliamentary committee to prioritize the bill once it is formally laid. Beyond supporting free primary care, the NHIA intends to use the legal overhaul to strengthen its enforcement capabilities against fraud and to enhance the overall transparency of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). The Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, lauded the authority for its recent improvements in financial management and the speed of claims disbursement. Records indicate a significant uptick in payments, with GH₵83.1 million processed in the final two quarters of 2026, compared to GH₵27.8 million in 2025. These advancements have been attributed to digital interventions that have reduced the claims processing turnaround time to just 20 days, allowing for more consistent monthly payments to healthcare providers. Despite these gains, the NHIA is looking toward long-term sustainability by requesting capital budget funding for 2027 to upgrade and maintain its technological and physical infrastructure. Dr. Nawaane encouraged continued collaboration between the authority and the legislature to resolve remaining operational challenges. Ensuring a robust legal and financial foundation for the NHIS is seen as essential for expanding patient access to medical services and achieving the goal of universal health coverage under the new primary healthcare model.

John Dramani Mahama honoured at 2026 World Health Summit in Berlin
health|

John Dramani Mahama honoured at 2026 World Health Summit in Berlin

President John Dramani Mahama has been recognized for his outstanding leadership in global health at the 2026 World Health Summit in Berlin. The award was presented to the President by Ghana's Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, during the international gathering. The recognition highlights the President's commitment to advancing healthcare outcomes and his administration's focus on creating sustainable, locally-driven health frameworks to serve the Ghanaian people. During the summit, Minister Akandoh delivered a strong message advocating for health sovereignty, arguing that global health systems must be led by individual nations rather than designed for them by external actors. He emphasized that countries should actively shape their own health priorities to ensure long-term stability. The Minister cited domestic initiatives such as the "Mahama Cares" programme and the implementation of free primary healthcare as essential steps Ghana has taken to build a resilient health system capable of meeting citizens' needs without total reliance on foreign intervention. This call for domestic capacity building follows Ghana's recent decision to reject a $109 million health compact with the United States. The government expressed significant concerns regarding the agreement’s implications for national health data security, financing obligations, and the maintenance of local regulatory authority. President Mahama had previously noted that such international compacts could pose risks to national health regulation, reinforcing the Minister's stance in Berlin that health systems must be developed from within to avoid dependency on external aid. Closing the presentation, Akandoh urged the international community to pursue cooperation that prioritizes equity and domestic emergency preparedness. He noted that the path to global health security lies in empowering nations to handle their own health emergencies through internal growth and strategic investment. The summit recognition of President Mahama serves as a platform for Ghana to continue its advocacy for a global health architecture that respects the autonomy and specific needs of developing nations.

Asogli State hails GMTF as laudable healthcare initiative
health|

Obuobia Darko-Opoku seeks partnerships for Ghana Medical Trust Fund

Obuobia Darko-Opoku, Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), is leading an intensive engagement drive to secure partnerships and raise public awareness for the fund, widely known as "Mahama Cares." The initiative is designed to bridge financial gaps left by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), specifically targeting specialized medical care and the treatment of non-communicable diseases for Ghanaians who cannot afford expensive procedures. During a stakeholder engagement session in Accra, Mrs. Darko-Opoku called upon health professionals, traditional and religious leaders, and the media to help disseminate information about the fund’s support programs. She emphasized that many eligible patients remain unaware of the assistance available to them, particularly those in remote communities who do not have access to formal institutional announcements. The Greater Accra Regional Minister supported this call, noting that enhanced collaboration is vital to improving overall healthcare access across the region. The fund's outreach recently extended to the Asogli State, where Togbe Kasa III lauded the "Mahama Cares" initiative as a significant step forward for the country’s health sector. While expressing strong support, Togbe Kasa III cautioned the fund’s management to ensure that resources are handled responsibly and protected from misuse. He highlighted the potential for the GMTF to provide a safety net for citizens facing life-threatening health challenges that require specialized interventions. Beyond direct patient support, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund is focusing on long-term systemic improvements, including major infrastructure projects at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and specialized training for healthcare professionals. By strengthening community engagement, the GMTF aims to ensure that no Ghanaian is denied life-saving medical care due to financial constraints, while simultaneously building the capacity of the national health workforce to manage complex medical conditions.

A large crowd of participants, many dressed in pink and white t-shirts, gathers for a breast cancer awareness walk in Ghana. The aerial-style shot shows a sea of people carrying banners and signs through a town street, with an ambulance and fire truck visible in the background.
health|

Delta Air Lines reaches 166,000 Ghanaians through 10-year BCI partnership

Delta Air Lines and Breast Care International (BCI) have commemorated a decade of partnership dedicated to breast cancer awareness in Ghana. Since the collaboration began, the initiative has successfully reached more than 166,000 individuals with vital health education and provided clinical screenings for over 22,500 people across the country. This milestone was celebrated during the 2026 BCI Walk for the Cure held in Mampong, highlighting the significant impact of long-term private-sector support in strengthening public health outcomes and promoting early detection. During the event in Mampong, representatives from both organizations reflected on the progress made in demystifying breast cancer and encouraging proactive health screenings. Sarah Annan, representing Delta Air Lines, emphasized that the airline’s commitment extends beyond aviation to the well-being of the communities it serves. She noted that sustained community involvement is essential for breaking the stigma often associated with the disease, which frequently prevents individuals from seeking help until it is too late. Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, President of BCI, expressed profound gratitude for Delta’s contributions, which have been instrumental in facilitating nationwide outreach and ensuring that life-saving information reaches vulnerable populations. The partnership has placed a specific focus on improving access to health information in rural areas, where medical resources and awareness are often limited. By bringing screenings and education directly to these underserved communities, the initiative has helped identify cases at earlier, more treatable stages. Looking ahead, both Delta Air Lines and BCI pledged to continue expanding their health outreach efforts. Their future goals include increasing the frequency of screenings and intensifying educational campaigns to ensure that every individual in Ghana has the knowledge and opportunity to undergo timely medical assessments.

Dr. Angela Kutin Mensah debunks myth that breast sucking prevents cancer
health|

Dr. Angela Kutin Mensah debunks myth that breast sucking prevents cancer

Dr. Angela Kutin Mensah, a medical professional at Chrispod Hospital, has debunked the widespread belief that breast sucking by partners can prevent breast cancer. Speaking during a recent breast cancer awareness campaign, she emphasized that there is no scientific evidence to support this claim and urged the public to focus on medically proven methods of prevention and early detection. She cautioned that relying on such misinformation could lead to a false sense of security and potentially delay life-saving medical intervention. While dismissing the myth, Dr. Kutin Mensah noted that partners can still play a crucial role in the early detection of the disease by being observant. She explained that intimate moments provide an opportunity for couples to become familiar with their partners' bodies, making it easier to notice unusual physical changes such as lumps or skin irregularities. She encouraged partners to be proactive in identifying these signs, as they might be missed during a person's routine daily activities. The medical expert stressed that early detection remains the most effective tool in the fight against breast cancer, as it significantly improves treatment outcomes. She highlighted that once a potential issue is identified, it is critical for individuals to seek professional medical advice immediately rather than attempting self-treatment or ignoring the symptoms. Dr. Kutin Mensah warned against the dangers of prioritizing unproven remedies or cultural myths over clinical diagnosis. Her comments come as part of broader educational efforts to improve health literacy regarding breast cancer. By addressing common misconceptions, health professionals aim to ensure that more people prioritize regular clinical screenings and self-examinations. Dr. Kutin Mensah concluded by urging couples to maintain open communication about any health observations and to consult healthcare providers at hospitals like Chrispod Hospital whenever abnormalities are detected.

Journalists reflect on a decade of breast cancer reporting in Ghana
health|

Journalists reflect on a decade of breast cancer reporting in Ghana

Journalists in Ghana are marking a significant milestone, reflecting on ten years of intensive collaboration with Breast Care International (BCI) to combat breast cancer. This decade-long partnership has focused on dismantling deep-seated myths and reducing the stigma associated with the disease through targeted public education. Media professionals, led by voices such as Francis Appiah, the Deputy News Editor at Otec FM, have highlighted how their reportage has evolved from simple awareness to a complex effort aimed at improving public health outcomes across the nation. Francis Appiah shared insights from his extensive experience covering BCI’s campaigns, noting a critical shift in how the public perceives breast cancer. He emphasized that the media’s role has been instrumental in educating the public on early detection and the benefits of modern clinical treatment. However, Appiah and his colleagues also pointed out that significant challenges remain, particularly in rural communities where specialized medical care is often inaccessible. Journalist Michael Ofosu-Afriyie further noted that misconceptions about the disease persist, arguing that the focus on breast cancer awareness should not be confined only to the month of October but must be a year-round commitment to be effective. Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, the President of BCI, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the fight against breast cancer requires a collective and sustained effort. She credited the media for its vital role in influencing public understanding and encouraging women to seek clinical screening rather than relying on unproven alternatives. According to BCI, the synergy between healthcare professionals and journalists has helped reach thousands of individuals who might otherwise have been misled by misinformation or traditional myths. As the media fraternity looks forward, the call for more consistent outreach and improved medical infrastructure continues to grow. The reflection on the past decade serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the work ahead to ensure that no woman, regardless of her location in Ghana, is left behind in the fight against the disease. Future health communication initiatives are expected to focus more on rural accessibility and the deeper integration of breast health into the broader national health discourse.