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.

Healthcare workers in protective gear operate at a sanitation station within a temporary medical facility or quarantine zone. The scene features white tents, sanitation equipment such as buckets and sprayers, and personnel wearing surgical scrubs and full-body protective suits.
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Kenya records first fatal imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus

Kenya has recorded its first imported fatal case of the Ebola virus driven by the Bundibugyo strain, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The confirmation on October 6 has prompted health authorities to launch intensified contact tracing efforts to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed. This regional development comes as the outbreak also expands within the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the Alimbongo health zone in North Kivu, where four infections and two deaths were recently confirmed. The overall scale of the outbreak is significant, with the virus now reaching 64 health zones across seven provinces in the DRC. There have been 8,728 confirmed cases to date, with the WHO reporting a fatality rate of 48.2%. The expansion into previously unaffected areas like Alimbongo underscores the persistent challenges in containing the disease. Regional governments are currently strengthening cross-border surveillance and screening measures at entry points to prevent further international transmission. Response efforts in the eastern DRC are facing major obstacles, including limited treatment capacity and ongoing insecurity in North Kivu. Humanitarian groups, such as Doctors Without Borders (MSF), have warned that medical resources are being stretched to their limits by the growing geographic footprint of the virus. Community mistrust remains a significant barrier, often preventing health workers from effectively implementing contact tracing and treatment protocols. Additionally, the presence of armed groups in the region continues to threaten the safety of medical personnel and the logistics of healthcare delivery. The WHO has stressed that controlling the outbreak depends on accurate contact tracing and meaningful community engagement. Addressing local concerns and building trust in public health measures are seen as vital for stopping the spread. As the virus appears in new locations, including its recent arrival in Kenya, the international community is being urged to provide additional support to bolster regional response capacities and ensure that frontline workers have the resources needed to prevent a wider health crisis.

A large group of women, likely employees of Adamus Resources, are pictured outdoors wearing pink t-shirts and pink reflective safety vests for a breast cancer awareness event. They are posed in front of a hilly, forested background with pink balloons and banners visible behind the group.
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Adamus Resources launches breast cancer awareness campaign in Nzema

Adamus Resources Limited has officially launched a comprehensive breast cancer awareness campaign across the Nzema area in the Western Region. The initiative, spearheaded by the Adamus Ladies Association, coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and seeks to promote early detection and regular medical examinations among local residents. By targeting both community members and schoolgirls, the mining company aims to reduce the prevalence of late-stage diagnoses in its host communities. During the launch event, Dr. Roland Paaga, a gynecologist, emphasized the critical role that early diagnosis plays in improving treatment outcomes. He noted that many patients delay seeking help until the disease has progressed, making medical intervention more difficult. To address these barriers, Hannah Chemel, President of the Adamus Ladies Association, urged women and girls to overcome the social stigma often associated with breast cancer. She encouraged participants to prioritize their health and seek immediate professional advice if they notice any abnormalities. The campaign is designed to be inclusive, extending beyond communal gatherings to reach local schools. Through educational sessions and hands-on screening opportunities, the organizers hope to equip the next generation with the knowledge necessary for proactive health management. Community members who participated in the initial phase of the program expressed their support for the outreach, calling for similar health-focused initiatives to be conducted more frequently across the Nzema district to ensure widespread access to preventative care.

Ghana Psychological Association seeks lived experience input in health policy
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Ghana Psychological Association seeks lived experience input in health policy

The Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) is advocating for a significant shift in the country's mental health sector by urging the inclusion of individuals with lived experience in the design of policies and service delivery. This call, made in observance of World Mental Health Day, emphasizes that those who have navigated mental health challenges should be viewed as essential contributors rather than passive recipients of care. The association believes that integrating these perspectives is vital to evolving the current healthcare framework into one that is more responsive to the actual needs of patients. Data highlighting the urgency of this intervention suggests a significant mental health burden across the country. A recent survey cited by the GPA revealed that 32.2% of adults aged 18 to 69 screened positive for probable depression, a figure that underscores the widespread nature of psychological distress in Ghana. The association, through statements from Dr. Isaac Newman Arthur, noted that involving people with firsthand experience will help create more compassionate and culturally appropriate care models that better resonate with the Ghanaian population's unique social context. Despite the high prevalence of mental health conditions, the GPA pointed out that significant barriers continue to hinder effective treatment. Stigma remains a primary obstacle, often preventing individuals from seeking help, while the financial cost of psychological services creates a heavy burden for many families. By bringing individuals with lived experience into the decision-making process, the association argues that the systemic issues of accessibility and affordability can be addressed more effectively through their unique insights into the barriers they have personally faced. Moving forward, the GPA is calling on all stakeholders, including the government and civil society, to support collective efforts to promote mental health awareness. The association advocates for early intervention and encourages open discussions within society to dismantle the shame often associated with mental illness. The ultimate goal is to build a healthcare environment where psychological support is readily available, affordable, and sensitive to the cultural and economic realities of all Ghanaians.

President John Dramani Mahama addresses a large audience during his 'Resetting Ghana Tour' in the Ahafo Region. The event features a diverse crowd, including traditional rulers in colorful Kente cloth, gathered in a large hall with official branding and digital screens displaying the President's speech.
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John Dramani Mahama announces three new psychiatric hospitals

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the Ghanaian government will construct three new psychiatric hospitals to significantly expand access to mental healthcare across the country. The new facilities are slated for the Ashanti, Northern, and Volta Regions, representing a strategic move to decentralize specialized health services. Speaking during a Citizens’ Engagement Open Forum in Goaso, the President stated that these projects are essential for ensuring that mental health support is available to all Ghanaians, regardless of their geographical location. The forum, which forms part of President Mahama’s two-day 'Resetting Ghana' tour, provided a platform for direct dialogue between the presidency and the public. During his address, the President emphasized that the new infrastructure is only one part of the solution to the nation's healthcare challenges. He specifically called on the nation’s youth to pursue specialized training in critical health professions, pointing out that addressing medical staffing shortages is a priority for his administration. He encouraged young people to see the health sector as a viable and necessary career path that serves the national interest. In a further development regarding international relations and health, President Mahama revealed that the United States has expressed interest in reopening dialogue concerning a health cooperation pact that had been previously rejected. This potential partnership, combined with the planned regional hospitals, suggests a comprehensive approach by the administration to bolster the national health system through both domestic investment and international collaboration. The government expects these initiatives to create a more resilient healthcare framework that can better meet the diverse needs of the population.

Prospera Soliku leads breast cancer awareness float in Wa
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Prospera Soliku leads breast cancer awareness float in Wa

Female personnel from the Ghana Immigration Service, the Ghana Police Service, and the Ghana Prisons Service conducted a public float through the streets of Wa to promote breast cancer awareness. The event, held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aimed to educate the public on the importance of early detection and the prevention of the disease. Led by the female associations of these security agencies, the initiative brought together officers and medical professionals to address the health challenges posed by breast cancer in the Upper West Region. The campaign was spearheaded by DSI Prospera Soliku, who highlighted the critical need for women to prioritize their health through regular check-ups. Throughout the float, participants engaged in educational talks that covered various risk factors associated with the disease and provided practical demonstrations on self-examination techniques. These sessions were designed to empower women with the knowledge needed to identify early warning signs, which is vital for successful treatment and recovery. In addition to the educational aspects, the security agencies partnered with health experts to provide free breast cancer screenings to the public. Organizers stressed that while October serves as a focal point for global awareness, the commitment to screening and education must continue throughout the year. The exercise concluded with a call for increased community support and the removal of stigmas that often prevent individuals from seeking medical advice until the disease has reached advanced stages.

A photograph of Pope Leo standing at a transparent lectern with a microphone, looking upward with a slight smile. He is wearing traditional white papal attire, including a zucchetto, spectacles, and a pectoral cross against a solid black background.
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Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery for lung nodule in Rome

Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo surgery early next week to remove a well-localised nodule from his lung. The 71-year-old pontiff disclosed the medical development during his routine address to pilgrims and visitors gathered in St. Peter's Square for his weekly prayers. The procedure, which was recommended after the nodule was detected during a routine medical check-up, will take place at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Despite the upcoming operation, the Vatican has emphasized that the nodule was caught at an early stage. Pope Leo XIV reassured the public regarding his condition, noting that the growth is well-contained and the surgery is a precautionary measure to ensure his continued health. Medical professionals at Gemelli Hospital, a facility with a long history of treating Catholic pontiffs, expect the Pope to require a recovery period of approximately one week following the surgery. The health announcement has not deterred the Pope's international diplomatic schedule. He confirmed that his high-profile visit to South America, scheduled for November, will proceed as originally planned. Vatican officials have also clarified that the daily administrative operations of the Holy See will continue without interruption while the pontiff is hospitalised, ensuring that the governance of the Church remains stable during his brief absence. News of the surgery has prompted a wave of support from the international community. Leaders from several nations, including Italy and Israel, have already issued statements expressing their support and wishing the 71-year-old a swift and successful recovery. This surge of global well-wishes reflects the significant diplomatic and spiritual role the Pope continues to play on the world stage, with many following his health updates closely.

KNUST research team develops local recipes to combat Saboba malnutrition
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KNUST research team develops local recipes to combat Saboba malnutrition

A research team from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has introduced standardized recipes using indigenous ingredients to address high rates of child stunting and anaemia in the Saboba District of the Northern Region. The project seeks to transition households from diets heavy in carbohydrates to more nutritionally balanced meals by leveraging locally available resources. This intervention is part of a broader strategy to improve food security and public health outcomes in one of the region's primary agricultural hubs. Despite the district's reputation as a productive agricultural area, research indicates that approximately 31% of households in Saboba remain food insecure. This nutritional gap has led to significant health challenges, particularly among children, where anaemia and stunting rates remain alarmingly high. To address this, the KNUST team documented 50 different food commodities native to the area. From these, they developed and standardized five distinct soup recipes and enhanced two traditional dishes, specifically designed to maximize nutritional intake while maintaining local tastes and traditions. The initiative goes beyond recipe development, incorporating practical training sessions for community members and local stakeholders. By teaching families how to prepare these improved meals, the research team aims to empower residents to take control of their nutritional health using affordable, accessible ingredients. The project has received significant support from local leaders, who view the standardization of indigenous recipes as a sustainable solution to chronic malnutrition that does not rely on expensive imported supplements. Looking forward, the researchers hope that the adoption of these enhanced recipes will lead to a measurable reduction in stunting and anaemia rates over the long term. By integrating scientific nutritional standards with traditional culinary practices, the team intends to create a scalable model for food security that can be replicated in other districts facing similar dietary challenges. The focus remains on fostering sustainable behavioral change within households to ensure lasting improvements in community wellbeing and child development.

Bahass Foundation begins vocational training for mental health recovery in Wa
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Bahass Foundation begins vocational training for mental health recovery in Wa

The Bahass Foundation has launched a vocational skills training program in Wa to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of people living with mental health conditions. Introduced to coincide with World Mental Health Day, the initiative provides residents with practical training in tailoring, smock dressmaking, and traditional weaving. This move aims to complement clinical treatments by equipping patients with the tools needed for financial independence and long-term recovery. The foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Ilyasu Yussif Baba, highlighted that clinical rehabilitation alone is often insufficient for lasting recovery. He noted that many patients face significant hurdles after treatment, including social stigma and a lack of employment opportunities, which frequently lead to relapses. By providing marketable skills, the program seeks to address the socio-economic factors that contribute to mental health challenges. Currently, the foundation’s facility houses 72 residents, and statistics provided by the CEO indicate that substance abuse accounts for approximately 80% of those admissions. While the launch of the training program marks a significant step forward, the foundation continues to grapple with infrastructure limitations. During the event, which featured success stories from beneficiaries and expressions of support from various community organizations, Baba made an appeal for public and private assistance. A critical priority for the organization is the completion of a stalled dormitory project, which is necessary to accommodate the growing number of residents seeking help. Strengthening these facilities is seen as essential for providing a stable environment where residents can safely transition from intensive care to productive community life.

Ghana Alliance for Mental Health urges Mental Health Fund activation
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Ghana Alliance for Mental Health urges Mental Health Fund activation

The Ghana Alliance for Mental Health and Development has issued an urgent call to the government to operationalise the Mental Health Fund to ensure sustainable financing for the sector. Established under the Mental Health Act of 2012, the fund has remained largely dormant, leaving the nation's mental healthcare system to face persistent resource shortages. The Alliance argues that activating this fund is a necessary step to move away from erratic funding and toward a robust system capable of providing quality care to all citizens. In addition to financial reforms, the Alliance has proposed a 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities (PWDs) within local government roles. This recommendation is intended to promote economic inclusion and ensure that individuals living with mental health conditions or other disabilities have access to stable livelihoods. The group emphasized that meaningful inclusion in the workforce is a vital component of recovery and social integration, calling on local authorities to lead by example in their hiring practices. The advocacy group also highlighted the critical role of the media and the broader public in dismantling social stigma. They urged media houses to prioritize educational content that fosters understanding and respect for those with mental health challenges. By changing the narrative around disability and mental health, the Alliance believes the country can eliminate the discrimination that often prevents individuals from seeking help or participating fully in their communities. Looking forward, the Alliance is advocating for the active participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes related to policies that affect their lives. They maintain that the perspectives of those with lived experience are essential for creating effective interventions. The operationalisation of the 2012 Fund remains the primary priority, as it would provide the financial backbone needed to implement these inclusive policies and improve mental health infrastructure nationwide.

Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the Minister of Health, addresses the media during a press conference in Ghana. He stands behind a white podium featuring the Ministry of Health logo and 'REPUBLIC OF GHANA' text, with multiple media microphones positioned in front of him.
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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assures public over 450 suspected yellow fever cases

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has assured the public that the current yellow fever outbreak in Ghana is being managed effectively. According to the Minister, there are currently 450 suspected cases reported across all 16 regions of the country. While the number of suspected cases appears significant, Akandoh emphasized that the government has taken proactive measures to contain the spread and protect vulnerable populations nationwide. The Upper West Region has emerged as a primary focus for health authorities, reporting 88 of the suspected cases. Out of these, three cases have been officially confirmed following testing at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. In response to these developments, the Ministry of Health is prioritizing resources for the region to ensure that the situation does not escalate into a larger public health crisis. To combat the outbreak, the government is expanding its vaccination program to cover a broad demographic, specifically targeting individuals aged between nine months and 60 years. Minister Akandoh revealed that an additional 187,000 doses of the yellow fever vaccine have been requested from international partners to bolster the nationwide campaign. Vaccination teams have already been organized and are prepared to commence intensive immunization exercises in the Upper West Region immediately. The Minister’s reassurance comes as part of a broader public health strategy to maintain surveillance and response capabilities across all administrative regions. By focusing on both immediate vaccination in high-risk areas and the procurement of additional medical supplies, the Ministry aims to curb the transmission of the virus. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with health teams as they conduct the upcoming vaccination drives to ensure national health security.

A group of Egyptian women are seen in a public space, illustrating a mix of traditional and modern attire. Several women are actively using smartphones, which connects to the news story about how mobile technology and femtech are being used to address women's health in Egypt.
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Nesma Amin launches Aziza app to address Egyptian women's health taboos

Nesma Amin, an Egyptian entrepreneur, has launched the Aziza app to tackle significant gaps in women’s health literacy and healthcare access in Egypt. Founded in 2023, the platform specifically targets issues surrounding menstruation and reproductive health, which remain heavily stigmatized in many parts of the country. By providing culturally sensitive information, the app aims to empower women who have traditionally been excluded from formal health education and medical services due to social and economic barriers. The initiative comes in response to a 2019 study that revealed only 20% of Egyptian women are covered by medical insurance. This lack of coverage often forces women to forgo necessary medical consultations because of prohibitive private healthcare costs. Aziza addresses this by offering a suite of free digital tools, including menstrual and pregnancy trackers, intentionally avoiding a paid subscription model to ensure maximum accessibility. Amin emphasizes that using familiar, non-technical language is crucial for building trust and ensuring the information resonates with the daily experiences of Egyptian women. Beyond digital tracking, the broader Egyptian femtech market is beginning to shift toward sustainable health solutions. While disposable pads have traditionally dominated the market, there is a growing interest in reusable period underwear and other eco-friendly alternatives. Although these products face some cultural resistance, developers and advocates argue that long-term success depends on tailoring health solutions to the specific cultural and economic realities of the region. By focusing on usability and regional relevance, these platforms seek to create a new standard for women’s healthcare in North Africa.

Mental Health Authority records 20% rise in depression cases
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Mental Health Authority records 20% rise in depression cases

The Mental Health Authority (MHA) of Ghana has reported a 20 percent increase in depression cases during the first half of 2026, a development officials attribute to a significant expansion in healthcare facility reporting and the inclusion of mental health services under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Dr. Eugene K. Dordoye, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, noted that the number of facilities actively recording and reporting mental health data rose from 11,322 to 11,917 during this period. This surge in data suggests that more Ghanaians are gaining access to formal diagnosis and support, rather than solely indicating an increase in the actual prevalence of the condition.\n\nThe integration of mental health care into the NHIS has been a pivotal factor in this trend, as it has removed substantial financial barriers for patients seeking help for various conditions, including schizophrenia, epilepsy, and bipolar disorder. By making these services more affordable, the government has encouraged a transition from silent suffering to clinical management. Dr. Dordoye emphasized that the Authority is focused on ensuring that these recorded cases translate into comprehensive care plans, utilizing the increased data to better allocate resources across the country's health regions.\n\nIn response to the rising figures, the MHA is set to launch a nationwide mental health awareness campaign in schools to coincide with World Mental Health Day. This initiative will specifically target young people, using lived experiences to humanize mental health struggles and combat the social stigma that often prevents early intervention. By fostering a culture of understanding within educational institutions, the Authority hopes to sustain the current momentum in reporting and ensure that future generations view mental healthcare as an essential component of overall well-being.