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.

A group of officials and delegates are seated around a large wooden conference table for a formal meeting in a wood-paneled room. The Ghana flag is visible in the background as a man in black attire discusses documents with three visitors, including a man in a blue suit and a woman in a pink blouse. This gathering appears to be a consultation or planning session for a national healthcare initiative.
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Ghana plans Centre of Excellence for Hearing and Cochlear Implant Care

Ghana is moving toward establishing a specialized Centre of Excellence for Hearing, Communication, and Cochlear Implant Care to address the needs of citizens suffering from hearing impairments. This initiative, discussed between Ghanaian officials and international partners, aims to provide a comprehensive hub for ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care, audiology, and rehabilitation services. With approximately 4.8% of the national population living with disabling hearing loss, the proposed facility represents a significant step in expanding the country's specialized healthcare infrastructure. The project involves high-level coordination between Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith and leaders from the Alexander Graham Bell Association. A key focus of these discussions is ensuring the centre remains under Ghanaian leadership while maintaining strong ties to existing healthcare institutions. The strategy involves a collaborative model where international specialists will initially work alongside local professionals to build sustainable expertise. This approach ensures that the facility does not rely solely on external aid but develops internal capacity to manage complex cochlear implant procedures and follow-up care locally. Beyond immediate clinical care, the centre aligns with the Ghana Health Service’s strategic direction for 2026-2036, which prioritizes equitable access to ear and hearing services. By integrating screening, diagnosis, and long-term rehabilitation, the initiative specifically targets the needs of children, for whom early intervention is critical to language development and education. The establishment of the centre is expected to significantly reduce the barriers to hearing healthcare, providing a centralized location for advanced medical technologies and specialized communication therapies that were previously difficult to access within the country.

Wooden letter tiles are arranged to spell out the words 'MENTAL HEALTH' against a background of scattered blank wooden tiles. The image uses a clean, top-down perspective to highlight the central message regarding psychological well-being.
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Mental Health Authority records 36,196 cases in first half of 2026

The Mental Health Authority (MHA) has recorded 36,196 cases of five major mental health conditions during the first half of 2026, marking an increase of 6,414 cases over the same period in the previous year. According to data released by the authority, schizophrenia-related disorders were the most frequently reported condition, with 15,193 cases documented between January and June. Other major conditions contributing to the total include epilepsy, which accounted for 9,072 cases, and depression, with 5,939 cases. Alcohol-related disorders and bipolar disorder were also identified as primary drivers of the mid-year statistics. The MHA noted that the rise in recorded cases likely reflects positive shifts in public health engagement rather than a worsening mental health crisis. The authority suggested that the data indicates improved access to psychiatric services and a growing willingness among Ghanaians to seek professional help. By interpreting these figures as a sign of increased trust in the health system, the MHA emphasized that its outreach efforts are successfully encouraging more individuals to come forward for diagnosis and treatment. As part of the upcoming World Mental Health Day on October 10, the MHA is championing a policy of inclusion by inviting individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions to help shape national strategies. This initiative seeks to move beyond clinical data to address the social barriers that many patients face, particularly the stigma that often prevents people from seeking care early. The authority intends to use the global observance to launch new campaigns aimed at fostering compassionate care and supportive social environments. Beyond policy changes, the MHA is calling for broader institutional support, including more respectful media coverage of mental health issues. To provide immediate assistance to those in psychological distress, the authority continues to promote its toll-free helpline. These combined efforts are part of a long-term strategy to integrate mental health more fully into the national health agenda and ensure that the needs of vulnerable populations are met with dignity and professional expertise.

A prominent 'EBOLA ALERT' banner with a biohazard symbol stands in the foreground, urging the public to notify staff or call a specific hotline. In the background, four women wearing protective face masks are seen conversing outside a building with white pillars, reflecting public health measures during a disease outbreak.
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Kenyan businessman dies from Ebola after traveling from DRC

Kenya has recorded its first confirmed death from the Ebola virus after a 40-year-old businessman died in a Nairobi hospital on October 5, 2023. The deceased had recently returned to the country from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where he had lived for seven years. Health authorities confirmed that the individual arrived in the capital critically ill after traveling through Uganda, marking the first time the viral hemorrhagic fever has been officially detected and confirmed within Kenya's borders. Before his arrival in Kenya, the businessman had reportedly sought medical treatment in the DRC for symptoms including high fever and bleeding beneath the skin. Despite his deteriorating condition, he managed to cross international borders through Uganda. Kenyan health officials have expressed significant concern that standard temperature screenings at border entry points failed to detect the illness, allowing the patient to reach Nairobi before the severity of his condition was recognized by medical professionals. In response to the fatality, the Ministry of Health has launched an extensive contact tracing exercise to mitigate the risk of a wider outbreak. Authorities have identified 57 individuals who may have come into contact with the deceased, with 10 people currently placed in mandatory quarantine for observation. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been formally notified of the case, and Kenya is now intensifying monitoring and preparedness efforts at all points of entry to manage the threat. The incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the East African region to Ebola, particularly regarding the movement of people across borders from endemic areas like the DRC. Health experts are calling for a review of screening protocols, as the failure of thermal scanners in this instance suggests that more rigorous clinical assessments may be necessary for travelers originating from high-risk zones. Kenya remains on high alert as it works to contain any potential secondary transmissions from the identified contacts.

Leo District 418 Ghana provides free eye screenings at Korle Bu
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Leo District 418 Ghana provides free eye screenings at Korle Bu

Leo District 418 Ghana of Lions International organized a major vision screening and awareness program at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to commemorate World Sight Day 2026. The event was designed to improve public awareness regarding ocular health and to provide immediate medical assistance to individuals in need. Participants received free vision assessments and spectacles, while medical experts offered guidance on maintaining long-term eye health and the importance of early diagnosis for degenerative conditions. Mr. Jasmine Kekeli Cudjoe Sosu, a representative of Leo District 418, emphasized during the event that many cases of vision loss in Ghana are avoidable with timely intervention. He called for a concerted effort to expand eye-care services into underserved regions where access to specialists is often limited. By bringing these services directly to the public at Korle Bu, the organization aimed to demonstrate the tangible impact that regular screenings can have on community well-being and productivity. Adding to the advocacy, Dr. Naa Naamuah Tagoe from the Lions International Eye Centre focused on the clinical necessity of professional eye care. She highlighted that conditions such as glaucoma often progress without early symptoms, making routine examinations vital, especially for those over the age of 30 or with a genetic predisposition to eye disorders. Dr. Tagoe also issued a stern warning against the risks of self-medication, noting that improper treatment with unprescribed drops or traditional remedies can exacerbate underlying conditions and lead to permanent damage. The outreach program served as a reminder of the critical role that non-governmental organizations play in supporting Ghana’s healthcare system. As World Sight Day draws attention to global eye health issues, the efforts of Leo District 418 highlight the ongoing need for public-private partnerships to ensure that eye-care services remain affordable and accessible. The organizers concluded by urging Ghanaians to prioritize their vision as a central component of their overall health strategy to prevent avoidable blindness.

President John Mahama is captured speaking at a microphone during an outdoor commissioning ceremony in Ghana. The event features traditional ceremonial umbrellas, large white marquees decorated with national colors, and a gathering of officials, security personnel, and citizens.
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John Dramani Mahama commissions CHPS compounds in Ahafo Region

President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated several newly built Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds across the Ahafo Region during his two-day Resetting Ghana tour. The facilities, located in the communities of Ahyiaem, Asuatrekrom, and Nsuapemkrom, are designed to significantly enhance access to primary healthcare in rural areas. These inaugurations mark a key step in the government's commitment to improving local infrastructure and bringing essential medical services closer to the people. During the commissioning ceremonies, President Mahama outlined a strategic shift in the allocation of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). He announced that 80% of the fund will now be allocated directly to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to empower them to execute their own infrastructure projects. This policy is intended to streamline the construction of healthcare and educational facilities, ensuring that local authorities have the necessary resources to address the specific needs of their constituents without centralized delays. A central feature of the newly commissioned facilities is their integration into the Free Primary Healthcare Programme. Under this initiative, residents will be able to access healthcare services at the CHPS compounds free of charge. The President highlighted that the Ahyiaem facility would be registered under this programme immediately, removing financial barriers for those seeking basic medical attention. This move aligns with a broader national plan to construct additional healthcare infrastructure annually to strengthen the country's health system. The local communities have responded positively to the new developments, with leaders in Ahyiaem pledging to maintain the facilities to ensure sustainable healthcare delivery. President Mahama emphasized that community ownership and regular maintenance are vital for the long-term success of these health centres. By providing localized care and a revamped funding model for assemblies, the administration aims to create a more resilient and accessible public service framework across the Ahafo Region and beyond.

A close-up photograph of a hand in a blue medical glove holding a blood sample tube. The tube features a purple cap and a label clearly stating 'Yellow Fever: Positive' against a vibrant yellow background.
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Ministry of Health declares Yellow Fever outbreak in Upper West Region

The Ministry of Health has officially declared an outbreak of Yellow Fever in the Upper West Region following the confirmation of three deaths linked to the disease. The declaration comes after laboratory confirmations from the World Health Organisation (WHO) verified the presence of the virus in the region. This development has triggered an immediate public health response as authorities move to contain the spread of the viral infection and prevent further fatalities. In response to the outbreak, the Ministry has deployed rapid response teams to the affected areas to conduct intensive surveillance and contact tracing. These teams are tasked with identifying potential new cases and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. To bolster local defenses, the government is also preparing an emergency vaccination campaign aimed at high-risk communities within the Upper West Region to provide immediate protection and halt transmission. Yellow Fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can lead to severe complications if not managed promptly. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle pain, and jaundice. Health officials have urged residents in the region to remain vigilant and report any symptoms to the nearest health facility. The public is also advised to follow established safety guidelines, such as using insecticide-treated nets and eliminating mosquito breeding sites around their homes to reduce the risk of infection. While the current focus is on the Upper West Region, the Ministry of Health has assured the public that it is working closely with international partners to manage the situation and ensure the availability of medical supplies. Other regional health directorates have been placed on high alert to monitor for any potential signs of the virus. The government emphasizes the importance of the upcoming vaccination drive and encourages all citizens in the targeted areas to participate fully to ensure a coordinated and effective response.

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Mama Attrato II urges mothers to prioritize routine child immunization

Mama Attrato II, the Queenmother of Ho-Dome, has called on mothers and expectant women to prioritize routine vaccinations for their children to protect them against preventable diseases. During a visit to the Ho Municipal Hospital, she emphasized that completing the immunization schedule is vital for child survival and long-term health. She noted the historical success of vaccines in drastically reducing infant mortality rates in Ghana and urged parents not to take these medical advancements for granted. The Queenmother specifically addressed the rise of health-related misinformation on social media, pointing to a viral TikTok video that has been discouraging parents from seeking vaccinations. She cautioned the public to remain vigilant and rely on credible medical advice from qualified professionals rather than unverified online content. Mama Attrato stressed that accurate public health messaging is essential to ensure that progress made in the country's healthcare sector is not undermined by false claims. Beyond immunization, Mama Attrato encouraged pregnant women to attend regular antenatal clinics and opt for safe delivery practices at certified healthcare facilities. She also took the opportunity to express support for President John Mahama’s recent decision to reject a controversial U.S. health compact. She framed the rejection as a necessary step to protect national security and the privacy of citizens' data, advocating for a more self-reliant healthcare system that prioritizes the interests of Ghanaians. Supporting the Queenmother’s call, the Nurse Manager at the Ho Municipal Hospital, Mrs. Monica Asase, reiterated the importance of vaccines in preventing outbreaks of childhood diseases. Health officials emphasized that routine clinics remain open and accessible, urging the community to continue the tradition of comprehensive maternal and child care to build a healthier nation.

Racheal Hesse Matey blames provider conflicts for maternal and neonatal deaths
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Racheal Hesse Matey blames provider conflicts for maternal and neonatal deaths

Racheal Hesse Matey, CEO of MamaCare by Racheal, has identified unresolved conflicts and poor communication among obstetric care providers as significant factors driving maternal and neonatal mortality. Speaking at the Annual Health Conference on Maternal and Neonatal Mortality, she cautioned that friction within medical teams can have fatal consequences for expectant mothers and their newborns. She emphasized that the quality of care is directly tied to how effectively healthcare professionals work together. Mrs. Hesse Matey explained that disagreements among healthcare staff and a failure to strictly adhere to established medical protocols often lead to patient mismanagement. She noted that when communication breaks down between doctors, nurses, and midwives, the resulting delays or errors in clinical judgment can turn preventable complications into tragedies. To combat this, she urged health facilities to prioritize teamwork and foster a culture of professional collaboration that puts patient safety ahead of internal disputes. The expert also highlighted the evolving relationship between patients and providers, noting that modern patients are often better informed about their health options than in previous years. Consequently, she called on midwives and other frontline staff to continuously enhance their technical skills and knowledge to meet the demands of a more discerning public. Ensuring that healthcare professionals stay updated with current best practices is essential for improving overall maternal health outcomes. In her concluding remarks, Mrs. Hesse Matey advocated for more equitable healthcare delivery across Ghana to ensure every woman receives the same standard of care regardless of her location or background. She emphasized that reducing maternal and neonatal deaths requires a holistic approach that includes better institutional support for conflict resolution, continuous professional development, and a steadfast commitment to patient-centered care.

GhanaWeb identifies nine forms of sexual abuse within relationships
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GhanaWeb identifies nine forms of sexual abuse within relationships

An educational report from GhanaWeb has highlighted the complex and often hidden nature of sexual abuse within relationships, identifying nine specific ways these behaviors manifest. The report emphasizes that sexual abuse is not limited to physical force but encompasses any sexual activity where free consent is absent. This includes scenarios involving pressure, manipulation, or a blatant disregard for a partner’s physical and emotional boundaries, marking a shift toward understanding abuse as a systemic issue of power rather than just physical violence. The manifestations of abuse identified in the report serve as primary methods of control, designed to undermine a victim's safety and self-esteem. Common forms include sexual coercion—where one person is pressured into acts against their will—and the demand for specific unwanted sexual behaviors. Furthermore, humiliation during intimacy and the strategic withholding of affection or sex are identified as psychological tactics used to manipulate and punish partners. These behaviors create a toxic environment where one individual's needs and rights are systematically ignored or suppressed in favor of the abuser's dominance. Crucially, the guide notes that sexual abuse can occur even in the absence of overt violence or physical injury. Neglecting a partner's sexual health, such as refusing to use protection or ignoring stated boundaries regarding safety, constitutes a significant breach of trust and physical autonomy. By broadening the public understanding of what constitutes abuse, health advocates and educational reports aim to help individuals recognize warning signs early. Identifying these patterns is a vital step toward fostering healthier relationship dynamics centered on mutual respect, clear communication, and enthusiastic consent.

Melody Fafa Kportufe calls for end to stigma against people who stammer
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Melody Fafa Kportufe calls for end to stigma against people who stammer

Writer Melody Fafa Kportufe and officials from the Mental Health Authority are calling for a national shift in perspective regarding stammering, arguing that societal stigma poses a greater challenge than the speech condition itself. As Ghana prepares for World Mental Health Day, Kportufe emphasizes that the psychological toll on individuals who stutter is often exacerbated by public misunderstanding and a lack of empathy. Stammering, or stuttering, typically manifests in early childhood and is characterized by the involuntary repetition of sounds, syllables, or words. While the condition is often rooted in genetic and neurological factors, experts clarify that it is entirely unrelated to a person’s intelligence or cognitive abilities. However, the emotional distress associated with the condition is frequently intensified by external factors such as anxiety, stress, and the negative reactions of others, which can significantly hinder social development. Dr. Eugene K. Dordoye, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Authority, highlighted that viewing stammering through the lens of mental health is essential for fostering a more inclusive society. He noted that the fear of being mocked or misunderstood often prevents individuals from seeking support and can lead to long-term emotional struggles. While speech therapy remains an option to improve fluency for some, health experts stress that there is no universal cure, making social acceptance the most critical factor for a person's well-being. The advocacy efforts aim to encourage Ghanaians to treat those who stammer with patience and kindness rather than frustration or ridicule. By reducing the pressure to speak perfectly, society can help bolster the confidence of affected individuals, allowing them to participate more fully in social and professional life. The Mental Health Authority maintains that as awareness grows, the focus must shift from attempting to force fluency to improving the environment in which affected individuals communicate.

Medical and Dental Council to establish schools in Upper East and Berekum
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Medical and Dental Council to establish schools in Upper East and Berekum

The Ghana Medical and Dental Council (MDC) has announced advanced plans to establish two new medical schools in the Upper East Region and Berekum. These institutions are being developed to bridge the educational gap in the health sector and ensure more equitable access to medical training across the country. Dr. Divine N. Banyubala, the Registrar of the Council, confirmed that the initiative forms part of a strategic effort to decentralise medical education and improve the distribution of healthcare professionals across Ghana. The development of these schools involves strategic partnerships with key stakeholders in the education and health sectors. In the Upper East Region, the Council is collaborating with the University of Applied Sciences in Navrongo and the Ghana Health Service to facilitate the training of new doctors. For the Berekum-based institution in the Bono Region, the Council has partnered with the Catholic Bishops Conference, leveraging existing religious infrastructure and institutional expertise to support the new academic programme. Dr. Banyubala emphasized that these new schools are critical to addressing long-standing inequities within Ghana’s healthcare training system. By placing these institutions in regions outside the traditional academic hubs, the Council aims to encourage medical students to train and eventually serve in underserved areas. This move is expected to alleviate the pressure on existing medical schools and create more opportunities for Ghanaian students to pursue careers in medicine and dentistry without the necessity of relocating to major urban centres like Accra or Kumasi. Looking ahead, the Ghana Medical and Dental Council is also exploring further expansion with plans for an additional medical school in the Savannah Region to continue this decentralisation drive. As these projects progress, the Council will maintain strict oversight to ensure that the new schools meet the rigorous standards required for medical certification. These developments mark a significant step toward strengthening the pipeline of qualified medical personnel to support the nation's healthcare delivery goals.

Ghana Health Service on why regular eye checks as 254,412 Ghanaians live with blindness
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Ghana Health Service reports 254,412 citizens living with blindness

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced that 254,412 Ghanaians are currently living with blindness, a figure that highlights a significant public health challenge. This total represents approximately one out of every 135 people in the country. Health officials released the data to underscore the importance of eye health and the necessity for early detection and treatment of conditions that lead to permanent vision loss. According to the GHS data, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the country, accounting for 54.8% of cases. Glaucoma follows as the second most common cause, responsible for 19.4% of recorded blindness. These figures suggest that a substantial portion of vision loss in Ghana is caused by conditions that are either preventable or treatable through modern medical interventions. The service noted that many cases of cataracts, in particular, could be resolved through cost-effective surgeries that restore sight to affected individuals. In response to these findings, the Ghana Health Service is urging the public to prioritize regular eye examinations as part of their routine healthcare. Officials stressed that early symptoms such as blurred vision, persistent eye pain, or difficulty seeing in low light should not be ignored. By seeking professional medical advice at the onset of symptoms, citizens can often access interventions that prevent the progression of diseases like glaucoma, which is frequently asymptomatic in its early stages but can lead to irreversible damage if left untreated. The disclosure of these statistics aligns with broader national efforts to improve eye care services across the country. The GHS emphasized its commitment to reducing the prevalence of avoidable blindness by making eye care more accessible to the general population. Health authorities hope that by increasing awareness of the primary causes of vision loss, more Ghanaians will take proactive steps to protect their sight, ultimately reducing the social and economic burden associated with visual impairment.