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.

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, is captured seated in vibrant blue traditional regalia adorned with elephant and adinkra motifs. He is surrounded by attendants in colorful Kente and traditional smocks, during an event likely related to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.
health|

King Nii Teiko Tsuru II calls for equitable specialized healthcare access

Ga Mantse King Nii Teiko Tsuru II has called for a healthcare system that ensures financial constraints do not prevent Ghanaians from accessing life-saving medical treatments. Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) in Accra, the King stated that poverty must not decide who lives or dies. He emphasized the urgent need for a framework where specialized healthcare is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their economic standing, particularly as the costs for such treatments continue to rise. The delegation, led by Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, briefed the Ga Mantse on the GMTF's mission to assist families struggling with the high costs of complex medical procedures. Darko-Opoku explained that the Fund is currently on a nationwide tour to raise awareness about its services and to mobilize resources. She made a passionate appeal to corporate entities and wealthy individuals to support the initiative, noting that the Fund's ability to save lives depends heavily on the generosity of stakeholders and the effective management of available resources. Supporting the King’s call, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, and the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Robert Amesiya, highlighted the necessity of institutional collaboration. They pointed out that a combined effort between traditional leadership and state health institutions is vital for maximizing the Fund’s reach. By leveraging local community structures, the GMTF can better identify and assist those in the greatest need of specialized care. King Nii Teiko Tsuru II concluded by urging all Ghanaians to support the Fund’s efforts to create a more inclusive health environment. He encouraged the GMTF to continue its engagement with local communities to ensure that the public is fully aware of the support systems available to them. The visit forms part of a broader effort to strengthen the national health safety net and ensure that specialized medical intervention is treated as a right rather than a privilege.

A group of journalists and professionals are seated at round tables during a workshop or media engagement session in an office setting. Participants are seen using laptops and taking notes, while professional cameras and a projector indicate an official presentation or training event.
health|

Ghana Health Service urges media to monitor health delivery commitments

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has called on the media to play a more active role in monitoring healthcare delivery by tracking commitments made under the National Community Scorecard initiative. During a training webinar for journalists, health officials emphasized that the media's involvement is critical to ensuring that feedback from community members translates into tangible improvements in the country's health infrastructure and services. The GHS wants reporters to move beyond simply announcing results and instead focus on the long-term implementation of remedial actions. Launched in January 2018, the National Community Scorecard is a social accountability tool designed to empower citizens to assess health services within their localities. The program currently operates across all 16 regions and 261 districts in Ghana, allowing community members to rate health providers based on specific indicators such as staff attitude, waiting times, and the availability of essential medicines. This mechanism provides a platform for direct feedback, aiming to bridge the gap between service users and health authorities at the district level. Despite its nationwide rollout, the GHS highlighted several challenges that have hindered the initiative's effectiveness. These include inconsistent reporting of scorecard results and "community fatigue," where residents lose interest in the process if they do not see visible changes following their assessments. Health officials stressed that the media can counter this by highlighting the specific action plans developed during community interface meetings and following up on whether these promises have been fulfilled by the relevant authorities. To address these gaps, the Ghana Health Service is focusing on targeted training for media practitioners to streamline how health data and community feedback are reported. Officials noted that a stronger collaboration between the media, local communities, and health providers is essential for enhancing transparency and accountability. By consistently reporting on the progress of health delivery commitments, journalists can help ensure that the healthcare system remains responsive to the needs of Ghanaians.

A team of healthcare workers, including nurses in green and white uniforms, are seen preparing medical supplies and vaccine vials at a desk. They are surrounded by schoolgirls in uniforms, suggesting a vaccination exercise taking place within a Ghanaian school setting.
health|

Ho Municipal Health Directorate targets 2,370 girls for HPV vaccination

The Ho Municipal Health Directorate has announced an ambitious target to vaccinate 2,370 girls aged between 9 and 14 years against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This initiative is a proactive measure designed to significantly reduce the future incidence of cervical cancer among women in the region. Health authorities have confirmed that the vaccine is being integrated into the standard routine immunization services, ensuring that it remains accessible and free for all eligible children across the municipality. Currently, the vaccination teams are focusing their efforts on private schools to maintain the momentum of the campaign. This strategic shift follows recent disruptions in public schools caused by a strike, which has limited access to students in the state sector. Health officers are working closely with school administrators to facilitate the administration of the vaccine in a controlled and safe environment. They underscored the importance of vaccinating girls within this specific age range to ensure they develop immunity before any potential exposure to the virus, which is the primary cause of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Beyond the school-based outreach, the Ho Municipal Health Directorate is urging parents, guardians, and traditional leaders to support the exercise by encouraging eligible girls to visit local health centers. Officials noted that community-wide cooperation is essential to achieving the target of 2,370 vaccinations and safeguarding the reproductive health of the next generation. By ensuring comprehensive coverage now, the directorate aims to build a foundation for a future where cervical cancer is no longer a major public health threat in the Ho Municipality.

Some of the adolescents at the Mafi-Kumase Comboni R.C. School and members of the visiting delegation
health|

Adolescent Girls’ Programme records zero pregnancies at Mafi-Kumase school

The Adolescent Girls’ Programme (AGP) has achieved a significant milestone in the Central Tongu District, with the Mafi-Kumase Comboni R.C. School reporting zero teenage pregnancies this year. This represents a substantial decline from the five cases recorded at the same institution five years ago. The programme, which was launched in 2025, is a collaborative effort between UNFPA and UNICEF, supported by funding from Global Affairs Canada. It is designed to empower young women through education and improved decision-making regarding their sexual and reproductive health. The success of the AGP is attributed to a multi-faceted approach that engages students, parents, and the broader community. Observations from a recent monitoring tour revealed that students are increasingly prioritising their education and adopting healthier lifestyles over risky behaviours. Beyond the classroom, the programme has trained parents to become more actively involved in their children's lives, which has significantly improved family communication on sensitive topics. This supportive environment, fostered by various community-led initiatives, has been crucial in creating a protective network for adolescents in the district. While the primary goal of the initiative is the prevention of early pregnancy, the programme also addresses the needs of those who are already pregnant. Health facilities in the district report that pregnant teenagers are increasingly opting for safe, professional deliveries and expressing a strong desire to return to school to complete their education after childbirth. Moving forward, the AGP aims to further enhance adolescent decision-making regarding sexual health and expand access to appropriate medical services to ensure these positive outcomes are sustained across the region.

health|

Elikem Oklu urges student nurses to act fast against maternal deaths

Dr. Elikem Oklu, a medical practitioner at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, has called on student nurses and midwives to prioritize swift clinical action to eliminate avoidable maternal and neonatal deaths. Speaking at a health conference in Accra, Dr. Oklu emphasized that delays in identifying and treating complications remain a primary factor in fatal outcomes. The event, organized by the Mama Cares by Racheal Foundation, aimed to equip the next generation of healthcare professionals with the critical skills and mindset needed for effective maternity care. During his address, Dr. Oklu highlighted the vital roles of communication and clinical vigilance in the healthcare delivery chain. He warned that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient if not translated into prompt, practical intervention when emergencies arise. The physician urged the students to maintain a high level of alertness, noting that the window for saving lives during childbirth complications is often narrow. Effective communication between healthcare teams and prompt decision-making were identified as essential tools for reducing mortality rates across Ghana’s health facilities. The conference also featured contributions from Mrs. Racheal Hesse Matey, the founder of the Mama Cares by Racheal Foundation. She underscored the ethical responsibility of nurses and midwives to provide compassionate and respectful care to expectant mothers. Mrs. Matey stressed that the quality of interaction between a caregiver and a patient can significantly influence health outcomes, advocating for a culture of attentiveness and continuous learning within the profession. Beyond individual clinical skills, the discussion addressed the necessity of functional referral systems and teamwork within the healthcare sector. By fostering a collaborative environment and adhering to ethical standards, the speakers argued that the nursing and midwifery professions can lead the charge in meeting national targets for maternal and neonatal health. The conference concluded with a call for the students to view their future roles as a critical service to the nation, requiring both professional excellence and deep empathy.

Prof. Victor Wutor (middle), Founder and Executive Director of Asthma Ghana, presenting the devices to Sena Kove, Head of Domestic SUB-BMC of the Ho Teaching Hospital
health|

Asthma Ghana donates 100 aerochambers to Ho Teaching Hospital

Asthma Ghana, a non-governmental organization, has presented 100 aerochambers to the Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) to bolster the facility's capacity to manage respiratory conditions. The donation, valued at over GH₵50,000, is specifically targeted at the hospital's Asthma Clinic and emergency units. These devices are critical for patients who struggle with standard inhaler techniques, ensuring that life-saving medication reaches the lungs effectively. Prof. Victor Wutor, the Founder and Executive Director of Asthma Ghana, emphasized that the initiative focuses on improving medication delivery for vulnerable groups. He noted that children and older adults often find it difficult to synchronize their breathing with the activation of a traditional inhaler. By using an aerochamber—a spacer device that holds the medicine—patients can inhale the dose more comfortably and efficiently, leading to significantly better health outcomes. Receiving the items on behalf of the hospital management, Senam Kove expressed gratitude for the intervention, highlighting its importance for patients who may not have the financial means to purchase such specialized equipment. The donation is expected to alleviate the financial burden on families while providing clinicians with the necessary tools to treat acute respiratory distress. Prof. Wutor concluded the ceremony by calling on corporate organizations and policymakers to prioritize respiratory healthcare access across the country to reduce preventable asthma-related complications.

DOP Joana Fofo Tackie-Otoo (inset), Director, Health and Community Corrections at GPS, speaking at the launch in Tamale
health|

Ghana Prisons Service launches Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank

The Ghana Prisons Service has launched the Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank in Tamale to significantly enhance healthcare services for inmates and officers within the Northern, North East, and Savannah regions. This newly established initiative serves as a centralized hub for mobilizing medical supplies, clinical tools, and pharmaceuticals to improve the operational capacity of prison health facilities. By focusing on these three northern regions, the Service intends to create a sustainable supply chain that addresses the specific healthcare challenges faced by the correctional system in these areas. A primary objective of the medicine bank is to establish a robust network of support involving pharmaceutical companies, charitable organizations, and various private sector stakeholders. The initiative aims to source specialized medications and equipment necessary to manage complex health conditions among the inmate population. By securing these resources, the Ghana Prisons Service hopes to minimize frequent disruptions in medical care and ensure that those with chronic or severe illnesses receive consistent treatment throughout their period of incarceration, reducing the need for costly external referrals. The launch emphasizes a holistic view of correctional care, asserting that the health of inmates is a critical component of national public health. Officials noted that since most inmates eventually complete their sentences and return to their communities, ensuring their physical well-being while in custody is essential for successful reintegration and for preventing the transition of untreated health issues into the general population. The Service is now focused on the effective management and equitable distribution of the mobilized supplies to ensure the long-term sustainability of the healthcare initiative.

Dr Abdul-Samed Tanko, CEO, UGMC, addressing the gathering, Yvonne Ohui Maccarthy, Head, Institute of Customer Service Professionals, delivering the keynote address
health|

University of Ghana Medical Centre launches 2026 Customer Service Week

The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has officially launched its 2026 Customer Service Week, themed "The Extra Mile," as part of an ongoing commitment to enhancing the patient experience. The initiative calls upon all healthcare professionals and support staff at the facility to transcend their basic departmental duties to provide exceptional care. By focusing on service excellence, the medical centre aims to strengthen the relationship between healthcare providers and the public it serves while fostering a culture of dedication across its various units. During the launch event, the Chief Executive Officer of UGMC, Dr. Abdul-Samed Tanko, emphasized that the core of effective medical service lies in compassion and clear communication. He urged staff members to view every interaction with a patient as an opportunity to make a positive impact, particularly during the vulnerable moments that bring individuals to the hospital. Guest speaker Yvonne Ohui MacCarthy further reinforced this message, highlighting that empathy is not just a soft skill but a critical component of professional healthcare delivery that significantly influences patient recovery and satisfaction. The week-long celebration includes a variety of activities designed to foster teamwork and recognize the dedication of staff members who consistently go above and beyond in their roles. Beyond the immediate festivities, the event serves as a strategic period of reflection for the institution. It provides an opportunity for the UGMC leadership and staff to evaluate current service delivery models and implement improvements that ensure the hospital remains at the forefront of patient-centered care in Ghana's evolving healthcare landscape.

The renovated National Ambulance Service office in the Talensi District
health|

Catholic Relief Services renovates six NAS offices in northern Ghana

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has completed the renovation and expansion of six National Ambulance Service (NAS) offices across northern Ghana, a move aimed at significantly boosting emergency medical response in underserved regions. The project, funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), focuses on strengthening the national referral system to ensure that patients in rural communities can access life-saving care without delay. This infrastructure upgrade is designed to specifically address the high stakes of emergency transport in areas where distance and facility quality often impact health outcomes. The initiative is a core component of the Healthcare Outcomes through Partnership and Empowerment for Maternal and Child Health (HOPE-MCH) Project. By upgrading facilities in districts such as Talensi and Nabdam, the project addresses critical infrastructure gaps that previously hindered the efficiency of emergency services. These renovated offices provide a more functional environment for NAS personnel and improve the overall coordination of emergency transport for expectant mothers and children, ensuring that the referral chain remains unbroken from the community level to the hospital. This latest intervention builds upon earlier efforts by CRS to modernize Ghana’s emergency medical infrastructure. In recent years, the organization has invested in advanced emergency dispatch systems and supplied additional ambulances to reach communities located in geographically difficult terrain. By integrating these physical office upgrades with existing transport and communication assets, the project seeks to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates that are frequently linked to transport delays and inadequate emergency coordination. During the official handover ceremony, officials emphasized that timely medical referrals are essential for overcoming the unique healthcare challenges faced by residents in the northern part of the country. The partnership between CRS and the LDS Church highlights a shared commitment to improving public health outcomes through targeted infrastructure development. The expanded offices are expected to serve as vital hubs for the National Ambulance Service as it continues to expand its reach into Ghana’s most remote and hard-to-reach areas.

Health Ministry declares Yellow Fever outbreak in Upper West Region
health|

Ministry of Health confirms Yellow Fever outbreak in Upper West Region

The Ministry of Health has officially declared a Yellow Fever outbreak in the Upper West Region following three laboratory-confirmed deaths. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced the development on October 9, 2026, stating that while the situation is serious, it remains under control. The outbreak was identified after reports of symptoms including fever and jaundice emerged in the Sissala West and Wa West districts starting in early September. In response, the Ministry has collaborated with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to activate emergency public health operations and deploy rapid response teams to the affected areas. Nationwide surveillance has identified approximately 450 suspected cases of Yellow Fever across all 16 regions between June and September 2026. The Upper West Region is currently the focal point of the outbreak, accounting for 88 of these suspected cases. Minister Akandoh emphasized that the government is prioritizing diagnostic testing and has already ordered an additional 187,000 vaccine doses to bolster the national stockpile. The Ministry is working to bridge the gap between suspected cases and laboratory confirmation to ensure a precise public health response. To contain the spread, the GHS is set to launch a targeted vaccination campaign next week in the Sissala East, Sissala West, and Wa West districts. Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the GHS, confirmed that the exercise will target individuals aged between nine months and 60 years. This intervention is designed to address potential immunity gaps in the local population and prevent further fatalities. Health authorities are also engaging traditional leaders and civil society to help coordinate the rollout. Beyond vaccination, the Ministry is urging the public to adopt rigorous preventive measures, such as eliminating stagnant water and using mosquito repellents. Residents have been advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if they experience symptoms of the disease. Minister Akandoh further cautioned against vaccine-related misinformation, encouraging citizens to rely on official channels for health information and to cooperate fully with medical teams during the upcoming vaccination exercise.

Researchers link neonicotinoid insecticides to 27% drop in sperm concentration
health|

Researchers link neonicotinoid insecticides to 27% drop in sperm concentration

A new scientific study published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology has established a concerning link between exposure to common neonicotinoid insecticides and a significant decline in male fertility. According to the research, men with high levels of these agricultural chemicals in their systems exhibited a 27% decrease in sperm concentration. This discovery highlights the potential risks that modern agricultural practices pose to human reproductive health, specifically through the unintended ingestion or absorption of pesticide residues found in everyday environments.The study was conducted by analyzing biological samples from 179 men in Jinan, China, providing a detailed look at how these chemicals interact with the human body. Neonicotinoids are a class of neuro-active insecticides modeled after nicotine, designed specifically to overstimulate and disrupt the nervous systems of pests. The researchers found that the impact is not limited to insects; the men in the study who had the highest exposure levels showed the most marked reduction in sperm concentration, suggesting a direct correlation between the concentration of the chemical in the body and reproductive impairment.Neonicotinoids have become the most widely used insecticides in the world because of their systemic nature, meaning they are absorbed by plants and distributed through all their tissues. This characteristic makes them highly effective against pests but also ensures they remain in the environment for extended periods, frequently finding their way into the human food chain and water supplies. The study's findings add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that environmental pollutants and chemical exposure are primary factors in the global decline of male fertility rates observed by health professionals over recent decades.Moving forward, the research team has called for more extensive, long-term studies to fully grasp the regulatory implications of these findings. There is a pressing need to determine whether current international safety standards for pesticide residues are adequate to protect the general population from reproductive harm. The study emphasizes that understanding the specific mechanisms by which these chemicals affect human biology is crucial for developing better public health policies and agricultural regulations to safeguard reproductive health on a global scale.

GAP Health Aid Foundation conducts five-day HIV outreach in Ayensuano
health|

GAP Health Aid Foundation conducts five-day HIV outreach in Ayensuano

The GAP Health Aid Foundation has concluded a comprehensive five-day health and social awareness outreach programme in the Ayensuano District. Held from September 16 to 24, 2026, the initiative focused on HIV prevention and the promotion of responsible social behaviour among the youth. In collaboration with several partner organisations, the foundation aimed to equip residents with the necessary information and resources to manage their health and protect the future of the local community. The outreach included a series of community-based educational sessions designed to demystify HIV and encourage proactive health management. Beyond information sharing, the foundation provided practical health services, including free HIV testing and the distribution of condoms and HIV self-test kits. These interventions were intended to empower individuals to know their status in a private and accessible manner, reducing the barriers to testing that often exist in rural and peri-urban districts. Mrs. Georgina Akua Padi, the founder of the GAP Health Aid Foundation, used the platform to issue a strong appeal to parents, particularly mothers, to take an active role in the upbringing and protection of their children. She emphasised that parental guidance is a critical first line of defence against the health and social challenges facing young people today. Traditional authorities in the district echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for collective action and communal responsibility to ensure the welfare of the younger generation. In addition to the health-focused activities, the programme also addressed educational needs within the Ayensuano District. The foundation and its partners made various donations to local schools to enhance the resources available to students. By integrating health education with material support for schools, the organisers sought to create a holistic support system for the youth. The outreach concluded with a commitment from stakeholders to maintain ongoing HIV prevention measures and community engagement efforts to sustain the progress made during the event.