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.

Dr Abdul-Samed Tanko, CEO, UGMC, addressing the gathering, Yvonne Ohui Maccarthy, Head, Institute of Customer Service Professionals, delivering the keynote address
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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." The initiative is designed to elevate the standard of patient care and experience throughout the facility by encouraging staff to look beyond their routine departmental duties. This annual celebration underscores the hospital's commitment to service excellence and seeks to foster a culture where healthcare providers are motivated to offer exceptional support to those seeking medical attention. During the launch event, the Chief Executive Officer of UGMC, Dr. Abdul-Samed Tanko, emphasized the critical role of compassion and clear communication in the healthcare delivery chain. He noted that the theme "The Extra Mile" reflects the necessity for healthcare professionals to provide support that extends past clinical treatments to include emotional and psychological care. Guest speaker Yvonne Ohui MacCarthy further reinforced this message, highlighting that empathy is a fundamental requirement in healthcare, particularly when patients and their families are navigating vulnerable moments. Throughout the week, the medical centre will engage in various activities aimed at recognizing the hard work of dedicated staff members and promoting collaborative teamwork across all departments. The initiative serves as an important period of reflection for the institution, allowing it to assess and improve the overall patient journey within the facility. By focusing on these core values, UGMC aims to ensure that every interaction within the hospital contributes to a positive, healing environment that meets the diverse needs of the public.

The renovated National Ambulance Service office in the Talensi District
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Catholic Relief Services renovates six National Ambulance Service offices

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has completed the renovation and expansion of six National Ambulance Service (NAS) offices across northern Ghana, marking a significant boost to emergency healthcare infrastructure in the region. Funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), the project is designed to enhance the speed and reliability of emergency responses in underserved communities. The initiative specifically targets the Talensi and Nabdam districts, alongside several other locations in the north, to ensure that life-saving medical transport is available when needed most. The project was executed under the Helping Overcome Problems of Emergency Maternal and Child Health (HOPE-MCH) initiative. By modernizing these physical facilities, the partners aim to create a more robust emergency referral system that prioritizes the needs of pregnant women and young children. The expanded offices provide a more efficient base of operations for paramedics and ambulance crews, which is critical for managing the logistical challenges inherent in the region's vast and often difficult-to-reach terrain. This latest investment builds upon a long-standing partnership between CRS and the National Ambulance Service. In recent years, CRS has also contributed to the development of sophisticated emergency dispatch systems and the provision of additional ambulances to bolster the fleet in northern Ghana. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to address persistent healthcare disparities and ensure that geographical distance does not prevent citizens from receiving urgent medical attention. During a formal handover ceremony, officials emphasized that timely medical referrals are often the deciding factor in patient outcomes, particularly for obstetric emergencies. By strengthening the NAS infrastructure, the HOPE-MCH Project aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in the northern regions. The renovated offices are now fully operational, representing a coordinated effort to improve the quality of healthcare delivery and emergency management for thousands of residents.

Health Ministry declares Yellow Fever outbreak in Upper West Region
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Health Ministry declares 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 in Sissala West and Wa West. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh confirmed the outbreak on October 9, 2026, stating that while the situation is serious, it is currently under control. The Ministry, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the World Health Organization (WHO), has activated emergency public health operations and deployed response teams to the affected districts to contain further spread. Nationwide surveillance has identified approximately 450 suspected cases across 16 regions between June and September 2026. In the Upper West Region, there are 88 suspected cases, with symptoms such as high fever and jaundice first reported on September 9. Although administrative data suggest high vaccination coverage, health experts are investigating potential immunity gaps that may have contributed to this localized cluster of infections. The government has prioritized verifying vaccination records and establishing actual immunity levels among the population in the high-risk zones. In response to the confirmed cases, the government has ordered 187,000 additional vaccine doses for a targeted campaign scheduled to begin next week. According to Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe of the GHS, the vaccination exercise will focus on Sissala East, Sissala West, and Wa West, targeting individuals aged between nine months and 60 years. Minister Akandoh emphasized that vaccination remains the primary defense against the virus and urged the public to cooperate with health workers while ignoring misinformation regarding vaccine safety. Beyond vaccination, health authorities are advising residents to adopt preventive measures against mosquito bites, including the use of repellents and the elimination of stagnant water around homes. The Ministry has called on traditional leaders and civil society organizations to assist in disseminating accurate health information. Residents in the Upper West Region are encouraged to report to the nearest health facility immediately if they experience sudden fever or yellowing of the eyes, as early detection is critical for managing the disease.

Climate disasters fuel child marriage, teenage pregnancy — Study
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Plan International links climate shocks to rising child marriage and pregnancy

A global study by Plan International has revealed a direct correlation between climate disasters and an increase in child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and violence against girls. The research, which spanned 52 low- and middle-income countries, highlights how climate-related shocks are devastating health outcomes and disrupting essential education services for young women. By surveying 5,000 girls and young women aged 15 to 24, the organisation found that the breakdown of social and economic systems during environmental crises disproportionately targets vulnerable females. According to the findings, 36% of the participants observed a rise in early marriages within their communities following climate events. Additionally, 10% of those surveyed reported experiencing unintended pregnancies due to the direct or indirect consequences of climate disasters. The report also identified a significant surge in physical and sexual hazards, with 28% of respondents noting increased violence against women and girls in the aftermath of these shocks. These statistics underscore a growing protection crisis where traditional safety nets and institutional supports often fail during floods, droughts, and other extreme weather events. The study emphasizes that the disruption of education serves as a critical driver for these increased risks. When schools are damaged, destroyed, or repurposed as temporary shelters, girls frequently lose the primary environment that protects them from early marriage and exploitation. Furthermore, access to essential healthcare services worsened significantly for the majority of girls interviewed, making it difficult for them to obtain reproductive health support or general medical care following a disaster. In many cases, the loss of family livelihoods forces parents to view child marriage as a survival strategy to reduce economic burdens. In response to these findings, Plan International is calling for urgent global action to integrate the specific health and protection needs of girls into national climate adaptation plans. The organisation stresses that climate policy must move beyond infrastructure to address the social vulnerabilities exacerbated by the changing environment. Providing targeted support to at-risk communities and ensuring the continuity of education and health services are described as vital steps to preventing the regression of girls' rights during environmental crises.

A group of medical professionals and dignitaries pose for a photograph at the 24th Annual General and Scientific Conference of the Medical Superintendents' Group in Ghana. The participants are seated and standing behind a long, flower-decorated head table against a backdrop featuring the conference theme and the Ewe welcome word 'WOEZOR!'.
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John Koku Awoonor-Williams warns Ghana’s CHPS health model is stalling

Dr. John Koku Awoonor-Williams of the Ministry of Health has raised concerns over the domestic stagnation of Ghana’s Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) model. Speaking at the 24th Annual General and Scientific Conference of the Medical Superintendents’ Group, Dr. Awoonor-Williams noted that while Ghana pioneered the initiative, the country is now falling behind other African nations that have successfully implemented the framework. The conference, which focused on leadership and innovation in primary healthcare, served as a platform for health officials to reflect on the current state of rural health delivery. The CHPS model was developed following a landmark 1994 experiment designed to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility, particularly for rural and underserved populations. Since its inception, the blueprint has been adopted by more than 15 countries across the African continent. However, Dr. Awoonor-Williams pointed out a troubling trend: nations like Ethiopia, which learned from the Ghanaian model, are now outperforming Ghana in several critical healthcare indicators. This stagnation suggests that the domestic implementation has lost the momentum and innovative spirit that once made it a global reference point. To address these challenges, Dr. Awoonor-Williams called for greater policy coherence and a concerted effort to modernize the country's medical infrastructure. He emphasized that achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires more than just the existence of health posts; it demands effective coverage and high-quality service delivery. The discussion at the conference highlighted the urgency of integrating new leadership strategies and innovative technologies to revitalize primary healthcare. Without these updates, the infrastructure supporting CHPS risks becoming obsolete, further widening the gap between urban and rural health outcomes.

Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives heads of schools and some of the new inducted members
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Gloria Achempim-Ansong urges investment in specialist nursing training

Dr. Gloria Achempim-Ansong, the Rector of the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives (GCNM), has made a strong appeal for increased investment in the specialist training of nurses and midwives to address Ghana's growing healthcare needs. Speaking at the college’s 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM), Dr. Achempim-Ansong highlighted that meeting national health targets requires a deliberate focus on expanding the capacity of professionals who provide specialized care. She emphasized that the current demand for healthcare services necessitates a corresponding growth in the number of trained specialists across various medical disciplines. The Rector specifically pointed to the urgent need for enhanced infrastructure and the provision of modern resources to support training programs. While the GCNM currently offers a wide range of programs designed to bridge the gap in healthcare delivery, Dr. Achempim-Ansong noted that these efforts must be backed by sustainable funding and improved facilities. She argued that without significant investment in training environments, the college’s ability to produce the volume of experts required by the country's health sector would remain constrained. Reinforcing these sentiments, the keynote speaker at the event, Dr. Eva Mensah from the Ghana Health Service, underscored the relationship between adequate staffing and health system resilience. Dr. Mensah noted that a well-resourced and properly staffed nursing and midwifery workforce is essential for maintaining the stability of Ghana's healthcare infrastructure during periods of crisis. The AGM also served as a platform for the induction of new members into the college and the presentation of awards to outstanding residents who have demonstrated excellence in their specialist training. The call for funding comes at a time when the healthcare sector is increasingly seeking to decentralize specialist care and improve maternal and child health outcomes. As the GCNM continues to expand its curriculum to include more specialized fields, the leadership maintains that government and stakeholder support will be the deciding factor in whether the institution can effectively meet its mandate. The successful induction of new specialists at the meeting marks a step forward, but the college maintains that long-term resilience depends on a robust financial commitment to nursing education.

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BasicNeeds-Ghana donates equipment to 42 health facilities for mental health

BasicNeeds-Ghana has donated furniture and essential medical equipment to 42 health facilities across six regions of Ghana to bolster mental health counseling and support services. The initiative is specifically designed to aid vulnerable women and girls, including those navigating challenges related to gender-based violence, HIV/TB, and maternal health. By providing these resources, the organization aims to bridge existing gaps in the healthcare system and integrate mental health support directly into routine maternal and child health services. The donation package includes air conditioners, ceiling fans, office furniture, and specialized health equipment tailored to the needs of the selected facilities. These items are intended to create a more conducive and private environment for counseling sessions, particularly for adolescent girls and new mothers. The project recognizes that survivors of gender-based violence and women dealing with chronic illnesses often require a safe, comfortable space to discuss sensitive psychosocial concerns alongside their physical medical treatment. In addition to the physical infrastructure, the intervention has prioritized human resource development by training more than 1,300 healthcare workers. This capacity-building effort ensures that staff are better equipped to identify and manage mental health challenges among their patients. The program has also facilitated awareness-raising activities focused on perinatal mental health and the importance of HIV testing, ensuring that both providers and the community are more informed about the intersection of mental and physical well-being. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has commended the donation, noting that mental health remains an underserved aspect of the national healthcare framework. GHS officials emphasized that the partnership with BasicNeeds-Ghana will significantly enhance the quality of care available at the grassroots level. As the project continues, it serves as a model for how non-governmental organizations can support state institutions to address critical health disparities and improve health outcomes for Ghana’s most vulnerable populations.

Samuel Nana-Bekai Djirackor treats 1,447 residents in Nabdam District
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Samuel Nana-Bekai Djirackor treats 1,447 residents in Nabdam District

Samuel Nana-Bekai Djirackor, the 2024 JoyNews Impact Makers Award winner for Health and Social Welfare, has concluded a six-day medical outreach in the Nabdam District. Through his Haven of Love Children’s Foundation, Mr. Djirackor provided essential free healthcare services to 1,447 residents across several communities. The initiative was designed to address urgent medical needs for vulnerable populations who often face barriers to accessing quality care in the region. The outreach targeted five primary communities: Sakote, Nangodi, Logre, Gundoug/Woredaa, and Pelungu. In collaboration with the Member of Parliament for the Nabdam constituency, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the foundation offered a comprehensive range of medical services. These included general medical consultations, specialized eye screenings, and diagnostic checks for blood pressure and diabetes. To ensure sustainable health outcomes, the team also facilitated National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registrations and renewals for those in attendance. Beneficiaries who participated in the program received medical attention and medications free of charge, providing significant financial relief to families in the district. Many residents expressed their gratitude for the initiative, explaining that the proximity of the outreach allowed them to consult with doctors about long-standing health issues they had previously ignored due to the costs of transportation and treatment at distant facilities. While the six-day event provided immediate relief to over a thousand people, the success of the program has prompted calls for more regular medical interventions in the area. The outreach by the Haven of Love Children’s Foundation underscores the critical role that philanthropic organizations play in complementing government efforts to bridge healthcare gaps in rural and underserved Ghanaian communities.

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Joseph Amoako calls for enhanced safety systems for radiation technologies

Professor Joseph Amoako, President of the Ghana Association of Radiation Professionals (GARP), has called for the implementation of enhanced safety systems and rigorous training programs to protect Ghanaians from radiation risks. Speaking at the inaugural Non-Ionizing Radiation Symposium, held as part of the 2026 Radiation Protection Week, Professor Amoako emphasized the necessity for professionals to be well-equipped to manage the safety implications of emerging technologies across the country. The symposium served as a critical platform to address the complexities of two primary forms of radiation: ionizing and non-ionizing. While ionizing radiation is commonly associated with medical and industrial applications, non-ionizing radiation is linked to everyday technologies like mobile phones and telecommunications infrastructure. To manage these risks, Professor Amoako advocated for a robust regulatory framework and strong licensing regimes, ensuring that all sectors utilizing these technologies adhere to international safety standards. Contributing to the discussion, Dr. Roland Yaw Kudozia from the National Communications Authority (NCA) underscored the importance of scientific evidence in addressing public anxieties regarding telecommunications. He specifically highlighted the rollout of 5G technology, stressing that ongoing research and public education are vital to reassure citizens about the safety of modern connectivity. Moving forward, GARP intends to collaborate closely with regulatory bodies to improve public awareness and maintain high safety standards in both the telecommunications and healthcare sectors.

GRNMA backs government decision to cut nursing school admissions
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GRNMA backs government decision to cut nursing school admissions

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has expressed strong support for the government's decision to reduce the number of admissions into nursing and midwifery training colleges across the country. Dr. David Tenkorang-Twum, the General Secretary of the GRNMA, described the move as long overdue, emphasizing that the current volume of trainees must be re-evaluated to ensure it matches the actual needs and resource constraints of the national healthcare system. Dr. Tenkorang-Twum highlighted that a primary motivation for the association's endorsement is the urgent need for alignment between the production of healthcare professionals and the sector's capacity to employ them. He argued that the healthcare sector must be able to absorb graduates into the workforce effectively to prevent widespread unemployment among trained professionals. Furthermore, he pointed out that the quality of nursing education is heavily dependent on the availability of skilled instructors and adequate resources, which are often strained by excessive enrollment in training institutions. The GRNMA is also backing the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s initiative to establish specific student quotas for various colleges. This approach aims to ensure that schools admit only the number of students they have the physical and human resources to properly educate. By advocating for a careful assessment of institutional capabilities, the GRNMA believes the government can maintain high standards of clinical training, ultimately ensuring that the next generation of healthcare workers is well-prepared to meet national health demands.

Lordina Dramani Mahama, First Lady
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Lordina Dramani Mahama advocates support for breast cancer survivors

The First Lady, Lordina Dramani Mahama, has launched a call for increased national support for individuals affected by breast cancer as Ghana joins the global community to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. Emphasizing the importance of empathy and collective action, the First Lady highlighted that the journey of survivors and those currently battling the disease requires a supportive environment free from judgment. She noted that this year’s theme specifically focuses on the diverse and unique stories of those impacted, aiming to humanize the statistics and foster a deeper understanding of the condition. Central to her message was a firm rejection of the stigma and misinformation that often surround breast cancer diagnoses in Ghana. Lordina Dramani Mahama urged the public to disregard myths that prevent people from seeking medical help, stressing that early detection remains the most effective tool in saving lives. By addressing these social barriers, she noted that more individuals would feel empowered to come forward for testing without fear of social exclusion or spiritual misconceptions. In a practical appeal to the public, the First Lady encouraged all Ghanaians to prioritize their breast health by utilizing the resources available at various health centers. She pointed out that many health facilities across the country are offering free screening services throughout the month of October to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder early diagnosis. She concluded by urging everyone to take advantage of these opportunities, noting that timely screening and treatment are essential to improving survival rates and ensuring the well-being of families across the nation.

Five African countries pledge to reach zero-dose children
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Five African countries pledge to reach zero-dose children

Five African nations—Senegal, Cte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Djibouti, and The Gambia—have formally committed to a new regional framework aimed at reaching "zero-dose" children. These are children who have never received a single dose of basic vaccines. The agreement was reached during a four-day regional benchmarking mission in Dakar, Senegal, held from September 29 to October 2, 2026. Organized by Galien Africa in collaboration with Senegal’s Ministry of Health, the initiative seeks to strengthen national immunisation systems across the continent through shared strategies and enhanced tracking mechanisms. During the mission, health delegations identified critical gaps in their current vaccination programmes and proposed national roadmaps to address them. The discussions focused on three main pillars: sustainable domestic financing, intensive community engagement, and the digitalisation of health records. By leveraging digital tools, the countries aim to improve vaccine distribution logistics and precisely track children who have been missed by traditional health outreach. This technological shift is expected to provide real-time data that will help health workers identify and reach vulnerable populations more effectively. Each participating nation shared unique successes and challenges, allowing for the cross-pollination of ideas. Strategies discussed included the establishment of community vaccination sites and the implementation of targeted interventions for mobile and hard-to-reach populations. For example, some delegations highlighted how community-led initiatives could overcome cultural barriers to vaccination. The goal of the Dakar meeting was to ensure that these successful local practices could be adapted and scaled across different national contexts to create a unified front against vaccine-preventable diseases. The newly established regional framework is designed to facilitate sustained action and continuous monitoring of progress. By aligning their efforts, the five countries intend to build more resilient immunisation infrastructures that are less dependent on external aid. This collective approach underscores a growing commitment in West and East Africa to achieve universal health coverage by ensuring that no child is left behind due to geographical or socio-economic barriers. The participants expressed optimism that the roadmap established in Dakar will serve as a model for other African nations struggling with similar immunisation challenges.