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.

Rabiu Alhassan, Executive Director, FactSpace West Africa, Abukari Abdul-Rahaman, Station Manager of Simli Community Radio, hosting a programme
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Simli Radio Combats Health Misinformation and Strengthens Information Integrity in Northern Ghana

In Ghana’s Kumbungu District, Simli Radio has emerged as a critical frontline defense against the spread of misinformation, a challenge that reached a fever pitch during the COVID-19 pandemic. As rumors regarding the virus and vaccine safety threatened public health efforts, the community station stepped in to bridge the gap between official data and local understanding. By collaborating directly with local health authorities and translating complex medical information into indigenous dialects, Simli Radio successfully debunked myths and provided residents with reliable, life-saving facts during a period of high national anxiety. The success of these interventions has led to a permanent shift in how the station operates within the local health landscape. Following the height of the pandemic, Simli Radio established a structured verification system designed to engage audiences actively in the fact-checking process. This system allows listeners to report suspicious claims or health rumors, which the station then verifies with credible medical and administrative sources before broadcasting the truth. This proactive approach has solidified the station's reputation as a trusted pillar of the community, demonstrating that local media can effectively counter the "infodemic" that often accompanies global health crises. Looking ahead, the role of such community-based initiatives is becoming increasingly vital as Ghana faces new challenges to information integrity, including those surrounding the 2024 general elections. The growing prevalence of digital misinformation has sparked national discussions on the need for legislative safeguards, leading to the introduction of the Information Integrity Bill. Despite facing significant resource constraints, Simli Radio’s commitment to truth serves as a blueprint for protecting the public from harmful narratives. By empowering local populations with accurate information in their own languages, the station not only supports public health but also fosters a more informed and resilient society.

Mental Health Specialist Esther Kyewaa Opoku Urges Early Recognition of Maternal Distress Signs
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Mental Health Specialist Esther Kyewaa Opoku Urges Early Recognition of Maternal Distress Signs

Esther Kyewaa Opoku, a dedicated mental health practitioner and addiction specialist, has raised a critical alarm regarding the often-overlooked mental health needs of mothers in Ghana. She stresses that identifying early warning signs is the most effective way to prevent manageable psychological conditions from deteriorating into severe crises. According to Opoku, the window for intervention is often narrow, and the failure to act promptly can lead to profound consequences for the mother’s long-term health and the stability of the family unit. A central concern highlighted by Opoku is the cultural and societal tendency to minimize emotional and psychological changes experienced during pregnancy and the postpartum period. She points out that while physical check-ups are routine, the mental state of expectant and new mothers is frequently neglected or dismissed as a temporary phase. This lack of attention allows symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders to fester. Opoku emphasizes that what starts as subtle behavioral shifts can quickly evolve into serious mental health crises if they are not acknowledged and addressed by both healthcare professionals and family members. To address this issue, Opoku advocates for a shift in how society perceives and supports maternal mental health. She encourages families to be more observant and supportive, creating a safe space where mothers can voice their struggles without fear of stigma or being labeled as 'incapable.' Moving forward, the goal is to integrate mental health awareness into the standard of care for all parents, ensuring that early intervention becomes the norm rather than the exception. By recognizing these signs early, Ghana can better protect the psychological well-being of its mothers and, by extension, the health of the next generation.

KATH Study Reveals Alarming Rise in Childhood Type 2 Diabetes Cases in Ghana
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KATH Study Reveals Alarming Rise in Childhood Type 2 Diabetes Cases in Ghana

Health specialists at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) have raised an alarm over a significant surge in Type 2 diabetes among children in Ghana. Recent findings from the hospital reveal that Type 2 diabetes now accounts for 15% of all childhood diabetes cases, a sharp increase from the previous figure of 5%. This trend marks a worrying shift in the pediatric health landscape, where Type 1 diabetes was historically the primary concern for younger populations, indicating a growing public health crisis that demands immediate attention. According to Professor Emmanuel Ameyaw and other medical experts at KATH, this rise is largely driven by modern lifestyle factors, including the increasing consumption of unhealthy, processed diets and a general lack of physical activity among the youth. Furthermore, the situation is often exacerbated by delayed diagnoses, which can lead to severe long-term complications. Personal accounts from young patients highlight the multifaceted struggle of managing the condition, which involves not only physical treatment but also navigating widespread misinformation and the social stigma associated with a chronic illness traditionally linked to older adults. Beyond the primary metabolic challenges, medical professionals are also emphasizing the need for holistic care for diabetic children. This includes maintaining rigorous oral health standards, as diabetic patients are more susceptible to dental issues. Experts urge parents and guardians to remain vigilant for early symptoms and seek prompt medical intervention rather than relying on unverified traditional remedies. The psychological toll on children and young adults is significant, necessitating a supportive environment that prioritizes evidence-based management over myths and cultural misconceptions. Addressing this growing health crisis requires a multi-pronged approach involving both families and the state. Professor Ameyaw has called for urgent government assistance to make essential medicines and diagnostic tools more affordable and accessible to families dealing with childhood diabetes. As health advocates push for better awareness and the promotion of healthier eating habits in schools and homes, the focus remains on ensuring that the youth of Ghana are equipped with the resources and education needed to manage the disease effectively and prevent its onset in future generations.

President Mahama Leads National Sanitation Drive as Zoomlion and Karpowership Ghana Bolster Clean-Up Efforts
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President Mahama Leads National Sanitation Drive as Zoomlion and Karpowership Ghana Bolster Clean-Up Efforts

Ghana has embarked on an intensive nationwide sanitation drive, marked by a high-profile Presidential General Clean-Up Exercise and significant corporate backing aimed at mitigating flood risks and improving public health. President John Dramani Mahama, leading the charge in Accra during the July 2026 exercise, underscored the urgency of the initiative by inspecting ongoing operations and calling for a cultural shift toward responsible waste disposal. The government further signaled its commitment to environmental safety by announcing the release of $150 million specifically dedicated to dredging activities to prevent the perennial threat of flooding in urban centers. Central to the success of this national effort is the massive mobilization of resources by the private sector. Zoomlion Ghana Limited has deployed over 500 sanitation workers alongside specialized heavy-duty equipment to support the Accra metropolitan area. This logistical support is crucial for handling the large volumes of waste typically cleared during such intensive exercises. Zoomlion’s involvement highlights the indispensable role of public-private partnerships in addressing Ghana’s waste management challenges and ensuring that sanitation drives translate into tangible, long-term environmental improvements. Beyond the capital, the sanitation agenda has gained momentum in the Western Region, where Karpowership Ghana has partnered with the Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly (EKMA). The company donated a wide array of sanitation equipment, including refuse bins, wheelbarrows, and cleaning tools, to facilitate local clean-up efforts. Karpowership staff also joined community members and municipal workers on the ground, emphasizing a hands-on approach to corporate social responsibility. Abdul Majeed Dukurgu, the Municipal Chief Executive for EKMA, lauded the company’s dedication to community development, noting that such contributions are vital for maintaining municipal hygiene and safety. These collaborative efforts reflect a broader strategy to integrate sustainable development into the national health framework. Sandra Amarquaye, Corporate Communications Manager for Karpowership Ghana, noted that the company’s mission extends beyond providing electricity to ensuring the well-being and environmental protection of the communities it serves. As the nationwide exercise continues, the focus remains on maintaining these standards of cleanliness and ensuring that the $150 million investment in infrastructure leads to a measurable reduction in flood-related disasters across the country.

Businessman Kennedy Agyepong 'Kenpong' Hospitalized at Nyaho Medical Centre After Domestic Accident
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Businessman Kennedy Agyepong 'Kenpong' Hospitalized at Nyaho Medical Centre After Domestic Accident

Kennedy Agyepong, the prominent Ghanaian businessman and entrepreneur widely known as "Kenpong," has been hospitalized at the Nyaho Medical Centre in Accra after sustaining multiple injuries in a domestic accident. The incident, which occurred at his residence, has sparked concern among the business community and the public alike as he undergoes medical care to manage his condition. Reports from multiple sources indicate that the injuries were significant enough to require immediate clinical intervention to prevent any further health complications or long-term issues. While the specific details surrounding the cause of the accident have been summarized as a serious fall at his home, the exact nature of the injuries remains private as he focuses on his recovery. Medical personnel at the facility are reportedly working to ensure the businessman is stabilized and receives the specialized care necessary for a full recuperation. The decision to seek treatment at one of Ghana's premier private health facilities underscores the seriousness with which his medical team is treating the situation. As a well-regarded figure in Ghana's corporate and social landscape, Kenpong is known for his diverse business interests and significant contributions to various sectors. News of his hospitalization has led to an outpouring of support from well-wishers across the country. Further updates on his medical status are expected as he continues his treatment, with the primary focus remaining on his path to a complete recovery and eventual return to his professional and social responsibilities.

UPNMG and Health Directorate Warn of Staffing Crisis in Northern Region Over Poor Infrastructure
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UPNMG and Health Directorate Warn of Staffing Crisis in Northern Region Over Poor Infrastructure

The Northern Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives, Ghana (UPNMG) have raised an urgent alarm regarding the increasing difficulty in deploying and retaining healthcare professionals in rural communities. During a conference held in Tamale, officials highlighted that a combination of dilapidated road networks, a chronic lack of decent accommodation, and the absence of basic amenities is driving trained professionals away from the region. This trend has created significant staffing gaps in underserved areas, directly compromising the quality and accessibility of healthcare for thousands of residents in the Northern Region. Maxwell Oduro Yeboah, President of the UPNMG, emphasized that the current environment in the Northern Region often forces nurses and midwives to seek better opportunities in urban centers like Accra. He noted that while there are ongoing efforts to improve some health facilities, the lack of reliable utilities and adequate living conditions remains a major deterrent for staff. Oduro Yeboah called for immediate government intervention to create a more supportive environment, arguing that professional development and continuous learning for young healthcare workers cannot be sustained if their basic needs for safety and shelter are not met. Echoing these concerns, Dr. Chrysantus Kubio, the Northern Regional Director of Health Services, and Dr. Richard Anthony noted that many health workers are now outright declining postings to remote communities. This resistance is rooted in the practical hardships of living in areas where poor infrastructure isolates workers from essential services. The directorate stressed that the burden of improving these conditions should not fall solely on the Ministry of Health. Instead, they called for a multi-stakeholder approach involving local political leaders, traditional authorities, and the communities themselves to make rural service more appealing to professionals. To bridge the healthcare equity gap, the GHS and UPNMG are advocating for a collaborative strategy that includes local incentives and infrastructure development. The leaders argued that without a collective effort to improve the living standards of health workers in deprived regions, the disparity in healthcare access between urban and rural Ghana will continue to widen. The call to action serves as a reminder that robust healthcare delivery depends as much on the well-being of the workforce as it does on the clinical facilities provided.

Democratic Republic of Congo Faces 25% Surge in Ebola Cases as Health Infrastructure Strains Under Bundibugyo Variant
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Democratic Republic of Congo Faces 25% Surge in Ebola Cases as Health Infrastructure Strains Under Bundibugyo Variant

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is grappling with a rapidly escalating Ebola outbreak, with the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reporting a staggering 25% increase in confirmed cases within a single week. Since the outbreak was officially declared in mid-May, the total number of cases has reached 1,759, resulting in at least 600 fatalities. Health officials have characterized this current wave as the fastest-growing outbreak in the region's history, placing an immense burden on the country's medical infrastructure and prompting urgent calls for increased international support and resources. The surge is primarily driven by the Bundibugyo variant of the virus, which presents unique containment challenges as there is currently no specific vaccine or treatment approved for this particular strain. This has led to a critical shortage of medical facilities; currently, 95% of available treatment beds are occupied, necessitating an immediate 50% increase in hospital capacity to manage the influx of patients. Despite these hurdles, there has been progress in diagnostic capabilities, with testing capacity now reaching 2,000 tests per day in Congo, and two new antiviral therapies are currently undergoing clinical evaluation to provide potential future relief. Beyond the borders of the DRC, regional neighbors are taking proactive measures to prevent a wider epidemic. Uganda has reported a minimal outbreak of 20 cases, with only one patient currently remaining under treatment, demonstrating effective initial containment. Meanwhile, in Kenya, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has established a specialized Ebola training facility. This center is designed to equip health workers with the necessary skills to handle the complexities of Ebola emergencies, ensuring that frontline responders are adequately prepared before being deployed to the most affected areas in the DRC. Despite these efforts, health authorities warn that significant obstacles remain, particularly regarding the logistics of specimen transport and the speed of reporting new cases to central health agencies. Timely notification is essential for effective contact tracing and ring vaccination strategies. As the international community monitors the situation, the focus remains on scaling up hospital infrastructure and accelerating clinical trials for antiviral treatments. The current crisis underscores the ongoing vulnerability of the region to viral hemorrhagic fevers and the necessity for a robust, coordinated pan-African health response.

GHS Director-General Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea Urges Public Hygiene to Prevent Cholera Following Accra Floods
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GHS Director-General Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea Urges Public Hygiene to Prevent Cholera Following Accra Floods

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially confirmed that there is currently no cholera outbreak in the country following recent flooding incidents in Accra, though health officials are maintaining a high state of alert. Director-General of the GHS, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has emphasized that while no cases have been reported as of late 2023, the risk of waterborne diseases remains significant due to sanitation challenges exacerbated by heavy rains. To mitigate these risks, the service has launched intensive preventive measures, including disinfection exercises and public health awareness campaigns across the capital. As part of these proactive efforts, health authorities have initiated disinfection and fumigation exercises in key public spaces and markets, specifically targeting the Tema Station Market and the Adabraka Polyclinic. These activities are part of a broader national clean-up initiative designed to reduce the health risks associated with flood-prone environments. Dr. Akoriyea highlighted that the success of these government-led interventions depends heavily on the commitment of local communities to maintain high standards of hygiene and cooperate with sanitation officers during the clean-up process. In the Korle Klottey Municipality, local officials are currently working to manage large volumes of flood-related waste and debris that have accumulated in public areas. The municipality has requested patience from residents as waste management teams navigate the logistical challenges of clearing the affected sites. Dr. Akoriyea reiterated that community involvement is non-negotiable, noting that the environmental sanitation situation in markets and public areas must be addressed urgently to prevent the breeding of disease-carrying pathogens in the wake of the floods. Looking forward, the GHS warned that the economic and human cost of treating a potential cholera outbreak would be significantly higher than the investment required for current preventive measures. Dr. Akoriyea urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant and prioritize personal hygiene, particularly in areas where drainage and waste management are compromised. By sustaining these nationwide clean-up efforts and adhering to public health guidelines, the GHS aims to protect the population from waterborne illnesses and ensure that the current absence of cholera cases remains the status quo throughout the remainder of the rainy season.

LCB Worldwide Partners with Ghana Health Service for Massive Post-Flood Fumigation Exercise in Accra
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LCB Worldwide Partners with Ghana Health Service for Massive Post-Flood Fumigation Exercise in Accra

Crisis management firm LCB Worldwide Ghana Limited has joined forces with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to execute a comprehensive fumigation operation across the Korle Klottey Municipality in Accra. Launched on July 11, 2026, the initiative is designed to disinfect critical public spaces, including major markets and transport terminals, to mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks following recent heavy rainfall and flooding. This large-scale exercise serves as a vital component of the national effort to safeguard public health during a period of heightened environmental vulnerability. The fumigation drive aligns with the broader National General Cleaning Exercise recently announced by President John Dramani Mahama. By targeting high-traffic areas where sanitation risks are most acute, LCB Worldwide and GHS aim to provide a proactive defense against the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases such as cholera and malaria. Representatives from LCB Worldwide emphasized that the initiative is part of the company's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to supporting the government’s environmental sanitation priorities and ensuring the safety of Ghanaian citizens. Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, lauded the intervention, stating that the nation "doesn't need cholera before we act." This sentiment underscores a strategic shift toward preventative health measures rather than waiting for a crisis to unfold. Supporting this view, the Municipal Chief Executive for Korle Klottey, Alfred Allotey-Gaisie, highlighted that while fumigation is a critical step, the long-term success of these efforts depends heavily on sustained community involvement and a collective responsibility toward maintaining cleanliness in the city’s markets and public hubs. LCB Worldwide has a documented history of stepping in during national health emergencies, having previously played a significant role in disinfection efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. This latest collaboration with the GHS reinforces the importance of public-private partnerships in building resilient health systems. As the rainy season continues, officials hope that this rigorous disinfection program, combined with increased public awareness and community-led sanitation efforts, will effectively curb the threat of seasonal epidemics and improve the overall quality of life in the capital.

Dr Sebastian N. Sandaare (3rd from left), Vice-Chair of Parliament’s Health Committee; William Moore (5th from left), Chief Executive Officer, Eleanor Crook Foundation, with other stakeholders after the meeting
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Ghana and Sierra Leone Strengthen Public Health Frameworks Through Nutrition Advocacy and Digital Surveillance

West African nations are taking significant steps to bolster public health, with Ghana and Sierra Leone launching initiatives to address malnutrition and enhance disease surveillance. In Ghana, a strategic partnership between the government and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is tackling the critical issue of child malnutrition, while Sierra Leone has introduced a mandatory digital health declaration system for all international travelers. These moves reflect a growing regional commitment to both long-term human development and immediate pandemic preparedness. The malnutrition crisis in Ghana remains a pressing concern, where 10% of children are severely stunted and nearly 10% are wasted. Recent deliberations between the Eleanor Crook Foundation, the WOMEC network, and Ghanaian parliamentarians have underscored the need for integrated strategies to protect women and children. Dr. Sebastian N. Sandaare, a prominent health advocate, emphasized that nutrition is a pillar of national development, directly impacting education and economic growth. William Moore of the Eleanor Crook Foundation identified malnutrition as a primary driver of child mortality, calling for the deployment of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods as a vital intervention to save lives. Concurrently, Sierra Leone is modernizing its border health protocols to prevent the cross-border spread of infectious diseases. As of June 18, 2023, the government has mandated that all travelers—including visitors, residents, and citizens—complete an online Health Declaration Form via a dedicated travel portal within 72 hours of their journey. The system generates a QR code that must be presented to authorities upon arrival or departure. This digital shift aims to streamline health screenings and ensure that accurate travel data is available for real-time disease surveillance and response, with designated personnel on-site to assist those navigating the new requirements. These developments in Ghana and Sierra Leone highlight a multi-pronged approach to public health in West Africa. By addressing the "silent emergency" of malnutrition and the logistical challenges of disease monitoring, both nations are working toward more resilient health systems. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued international collaboration, the availability of therapeutic resources, and the consistent application of digital tools to safeguard the well-being of the population and travelers alike.

Dr Hafiz Adams (left), Director, Technical Coordination, MOH; Dr (Med.) George Kojo Owusu (2nd from left), CEO of NAS; Dr Dominic Awariya (2nd from right), Ashanti Regional Coordinator, NAS, and Dr Lawrence Ofori Boadu (right), Director of the Institutional Care Division-GHS, and other dignitaries. Picture: ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
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Health Ministry to Procure 400 New Ambulances and Mandate CCTV Installations Nationwide

Ghana's health sector is set for a significant transformation as authorities move to address critical gaps in emergency response and workplace security. The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has sounded an alarm over its ageing fleet, prompting plans for the procurement of 400 new ambulances and a specialized rapid response motorbike unit. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health has issued a mandatory directive for the installation of CCTV systems across all public health facilities to protect healthcare professionals from increasing incidents of violence. These twin initiatives represent a strategic effort to modernize Ghana’s medical infrastructure while ensuring the safety of those providing essential services. The National Ambulance Service is currently grappling with a fleet that has largely surpassed its optimal operational lifespan. According to Dr. Simon Akayiri Nyaaba, Deputy Director of PPRME at NAS, the majority of the 323 ambulances currently deployed across 319 sites were last updated in 2018, leading to frequent breakdowns and maintenance challenges. Dr. Nyaaba highlighted that delays in procuring spare parts have further hindered service efficiency. In response, NAS CEO Dr. George Kojo Owusu emphasized that the service is transitioning from a transport-oriented model to a comprehensive prehospital emergency care provider. The planned acquisition of 400 new vehicles and the introduction of a motorbike unit are expected to drastically improve response times and service reliability. Addressing the rising concerns regarding the safety of medical personnel, the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has mandated the immediate installation of CCTV cameras in all health facilities, ranging from Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds to major teaching hospitals. This directive aims to deter physical attacks and verbal abuse against staff, which have become a growing concern in the healthcare sector. The Minister assured that the implementation of these security systems would be supported by existing budget provisions, ensuring that financial challenges do not stall the rollout. This proactive measure is intended to create a more secure working environment, allowing medical staff to focus on patient care without fear of aggression. Together, these developments signal a pivotal shift in the management of Ghana's health services. By addressing the logistical bottlenecks of the ambulance fleet and the security vulnerabilities within hospital wards, the Ministry of Health and the NAS are working to build a more resilient and professional healthcare system. As the new ambulances are procured and surveillance systems are integrated, the focus remains on professional development and the continuous improvement of emergency systems to meet the needs of the Ghanaian population effectively.

Madam Zenabu Dagomba (2nd from left) with officials of SSNIT at the ceremony
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SSNIT and Offinso North District Assembly Expand Social Support and Health Initiatives for Vulnerable Groups

In a significant boost to social welfare and healthcare accessibility in Ghana, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and the Offinso North District Assembly have launched initiatives targeting the nation’s most vulnerable populations. These efforts, ranging from celebrating longevity to providing direct economic and medical aid, underscore a growing national commitment to social inclusion and the health of the elderly and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Central to these developments is the recognition of Madam Ima Zenabu Dagomba, Ghana’s oldest female pensioner, and the distribution of essential livelihood and medical resources to over 100 individuals in the Ashanti Region. The celebration of Madam Ima Zenabu Dagomba, who recently turned 100, highlights the long-term impact of the national pension scheme. Born on July 1, 1926, Madam Dagomba has been on the SSNIT pension payroll for 33 years, a milestone the Trust marked by visiting her home to emphasize the dignity that financial security provides in old age. Beyond the celebration, SSNIT’s Deputy Director-General used the occasion to advocate for the enrollment of informal sector workers, ensuring they too can benefit from future security. Notably, the Trust is introducing a telehealth service specifically designed to improve healthcare access for pensioners, bridging the gap between social security and medical well-being. Simultaneously, the Offinso North District Assembly has extended vital support to 122 PWDs through a program funded by the District Assemblies Common Fund. This initiative focuses on economic empowerment and social integration, providing beneficiaries with a mix of cash grants, vocational tools, and educational materials. District Chief Executive Hon. Ceaser Ofosu Acheampong revealed that 45 individuals received business equipment, 60 were given cash for business expansion, and 10 students received educational support. Crucially, the package included direct medical assistance, addressing the specific health barriers that often hinder the economic participation of persons with disabilities. These dual efforts reflect a broader strategy to reduce poverty and foster self-sufficiency through targeted interventions. By combining financial support with health-focused initiatives like telehealth and medical grants, Ghanaian authorities are moving toward a more holistic model of social protection. Moving forward, the Offinso North District Assembly has pledged regular monitoring of the beneficiaries to ensure the sustainability of their businesses, while SSNIT continues its community outreach to make social security services more relatable and accessible to the average Ghanaian worker. These steps collectively aim to ensure that no citizen, regardless of age or physical ability, is left behind in the country’s development agenda.