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. Maria Van Kerkhove, a prominent official at the World Health Organization, is pictured speaking during a formal health briefing. She is seated behind a nameplate that identifies her as the Technical Lead for COVID-19 within the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, with microphones and digital devices on the desk.
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WHO demands transparency from Russia after plague laboratory death

The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally requested that Russian health authorities provide transparent and comprehensive data following the death of a laboratory worker from the plague. The technician was employed at the Irkutsk Research Anti-Plague Institute, a facility specialized in handling high-risk pathogens. International health officials have emphasized that without detailed information regarding the circumstances of the infection and the institute's safety protocols, a thorough and independent global risk assessment of the incident remains impossible. In response to global concerns, Russia's federal health watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, has maintained that there is no risk of a wider epidemic. According to the agency, medical monitoring has been conducted for over 90 percent of the individuals who came into contact with the deceased worker. Russian officials reported that these checks concluded without the detection of any dangerous pathogens, suggesting that the infection was contained within the laboratory environment. However, the lack of specific data shared with international partners has led to persistent skepticism among global health experts. The incident has also triggered diplomatic engagement from the United States, with officials calling for greater openness from Moscow. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing that timely information is critical for global health security. While U.S. President Donald Trump noted that current intelligence does not suggest the death was related to bioweapon exposure, he acknowledged that the information provided by the Russian government has been significantly limited. This lack of clarity has hindered the ability of international epidemiologists to verify Russia's claims of containment. Global health experts continue to advocate for clear data-sharing channels to address international concerns effectively. They argue that incidents involving highly infectious diseases like the plague require a coordinated global response, which is only possible when the affected nation adheres to international transparency standards. As the WHO awaits a more detailed report from the Russian authorities, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges in international biological surveillance and the need for robust oversight of research facilities handling hazardous pathogens.

Atiwa Trauma Hospital to be commissioned in January 2027
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Atiwa Trauma Hospital to be commissioned in January 2027

The Ghana Health Service and the Ministry of Health have announced that the new 100-bed trauma hospital in Anyinam, located in the Atiwa East District, is now scheduled for commissioning in January 2027. This updated timeline follows a series of delays that had previously stalled the facility's construction. The project is intended to serve as a critical hub for emergency and trauma care in the Eastern Region, addressing a significant gap in the local healthcare infrastructure. Originally launched in October 2020 with an initial completion target of 2022, the project faced prolonged interruptions primarily due to payment challenges that emerged following the change in government. Ben Ampomah Nkansah, the Director for Infrastructure at the Ministry of Health, confirmed that a disbursement has recently been processed for the contractor. This financial injection has allowed work to resume on-site, with the ministry providing assurances that the remaining construction phases will be completed within the next two years. The progress update was provided following an inquiry by the Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, Abena Osei Asare, who has been advocating for the project's resumption. While expressing optimism about the new 2027 completion date, Osei Asare emphasized the broader health needs of her constituents. She noted that while the new trauma hospital will be a vital asset, it remains essential to continue making improvements to the Enyiresi Government Hospital to ensure the region's healthcare system can meet growing demand.

A close-up photograph of a woman, likely a Ghanaian public official or Member of Parliament, wearing a pink blazer and pearl earrings. The official logo of the Parliament of Ghana is visible in the bottom-left corner, and the subject is smiling in an indoor setting with other figures blurred in the background.
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Grace Ayensu-Danquah negotiates funding for stalled Abetifi Hospital

The Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has revealed that the ministry is in active negotiations with the Ministry of Finance to secure the necessary funding to complete abandoned health infrastructure projects across the country. Speaking during a Public Accounts Committee hearing on October 8, 2026, the Deputy Minister identified the long-delayed Abetifi Government Hospital as a primary focus for these renewed efforts. The move signals a strategic pivot by the Ministry of Health to resolve long-standing bottlenecks that have left several critical healthcare facilities in a state of neglect. The Abetifi Hospital is one of seven major health initiatives that have been stalled for years, primarily due to insufficient financial resources. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah emphasized that the current administration is prioritizing the completion of these existing structures over the commencement of new projects. This approach aims to maximize previous investments and ensure that communities finally benefit from the infrastructure promised to them. To expedite the process, the ministry is also exploring potential partnerships with private health sector operators who could provide the technical or financial support needed to bring these facilities into operation. Beyond the completion of stalled projects, the ministry is preparing to conduct a comprehensive nationwide assessment of all existing hospital facilities. This evaluation will identify which hospitals require urgent repairs, expansions, or total reconstructions to better serve their respective populations. By addressing the healthcare infrastructure deficit through both the completion of abandoned sites and the modernization of current ones, the government hopes to strengthen the national health system and improve service delivery in underserved regions.

Stephanie Benson shares life-threatening complications after double mastectomy
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Stephanie Benson shares life-threatening complications after double mastectomy

Ghanaian-British singer Stephanie Benson has opened up about the severe health complications she faced following a double mastectomy. Speaking in a recent interview on Hitz FM, the jazz vocalist revealed that she narrowly escaped death during the medical process, which was initiated as part of her treatment for cancer. The surgery, which lasted several hours, aimed to remove both breasts to prevent the spread of the disease but led to unexpected and life-threatening medical challenges. The complications reportedly emerged during the reconstructive phase of the procedure. While the initial mastectomy was a difficult but necessary decision, Benson explained that the attempts to reconstruct her affected left breast triggered a series of medical issues. These complications necessitated multiple follow-up surgeries as her medical team worked to stabilize her condition and address the physical fallout from the initial operations. Throughout the interview, Benson highlighted the intense emotional and physical toll of the experience. She described the harrowing realization of how close she came to losing her life during the hours-long surgical intervention. Her account sheds light on the underlying complexities of cancer treatment and the often-overlooked risks associated with major reconstructive surgeries that frequently follow a mastectomy. By sharing her story publicly, Benson joins a growing number of public figures who are using their platforms to discuss breast cancer and the realities of surgical recovery. Her transparency provides a candid look at the health struggles that can follow major medical procedures, offering both a personal perspective on the risks of medical complications and a testament to her resilience in the face of a life-threatening health crisis.

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Aden Duale clarifies Kenya has no Ebola outbreak after patient death

Kenya’s Health Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, has officially clarified that the country is not experiencing an Ebola outbreak, despite the recent death of a patient from the virus. Speaking on Wednesday, Duale sought to calm public fears by stating that the reported incident is an isolated case rather than a sign of widespread community transmission. He emphasized that the health ministry has the situation under control and is following established protocols to manage any potential risks. The Health Cabinet Secretary explained that the single case was linked to the specific travel history of the deceased individual, who had recently visited several cities. This direct link to travel suggests that the virus was not contracted through local community spread, which is a critical distinction in determining whether a situation constitutes a national outbreak. Duale noted that the patient's movements have been carefully tracked, allowing health authorities to act swiftly in containing any further exposure. In his address, Duale reassured the public and international community that the necessary medical protocols are currently in place to address the aftermath of this first reported Ebola-related death in the country. He distinguished the single occurrence from a general outbreak, asserting that Kenya's health infrastructure is prepared to manage such specific incidents. The focus remains on monitoring the situation closely and ensuring that all precautionary measures are strictly followed to prevent any further cases.

Mafi Kope residents appeal for urgent medical aid for skin infections
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Mafi Kope residents appeal for urgent medical aid for skin infections

Residents of Mafi Kope, a fishing community in the Oti Region, are pleading for immediate medical intervention as an outbreak of skin infections and ear-related illnesses sweeps through the area. The health crisis is predominantly affecting children, many of whom are suffering from debilitating sores and infections that have made walking and attending school nearly impossible. Parents in the community have expressed growing distress, noting that the severity of these conditions is hindering the daily lives and future prospects of their children. Local residents, including Veronica Vorsa, have voiced their concerns regarding the lack of definitive treatment for the ongoing ailments. The community is demanding comprehensive health screenings and a more robust diagnosis process to identify the root causes of the sores. According to community members, the lack of a sustained medical presence has led to a deterioration in the health of both children and adults, sparking fears of a wider epidemic if the situation is not addressed urgently. Evans Attivor, the Nkwanta South Municipal Health Director, has confirmed that official records indicate the presence of angular stomatitis, bilharzia, and various skin infections within the settlement. Although previous medical assessments have been conducted in the area, health officials have yet to pinpoint a single definitive cause for the current surge in cases. Attivor has currently linked the prevalence of these conditions to poor nutrition and inadequate sanitation standards within the community, urging residents to seek professional help for any unusual symptoms. The people of Mafi Kope are now calling on the government and health agencies to provide consistent and sustained medical support rather than occasional outreach visits. They believe that only a dedicated health intervention will be sufficient to safeguard the well-being of the population and ensure that children can return to the classroom. As the situation persists, local health authorities are being pressured to move beyond general advice on nutrition and provide the necessary resources to treat the infected and prevent further transmission.

Issaka Yakubu Akparibo joins global aviation medicine academy as first African
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Issaka Yakubu Akparibo joins global aviation medicine academy as first African

Dr. Issaka Yakubu Akparibo has made history as the first African to be inducted as a full member of the International Academy of Aviation and Space Medicine (IAASM). The induction took place on October 2, 2026, during a ceremony in Istanbul, Turkey. This prestigious membership is reserved for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of aviation and space medicine, acknowledging Dr. Akparibo's significant research output and his long-standing commitment to the field.\n\nAs Ghana's first Aerospace Medicine Specialist, Dr. Akparibo has played a critical role in establishing standards for flight safety and pilot health within the region. He currently serves as an Aviation Medical Examiner for several major aviation authorities, providing expert assessments that are vital for the operational integrity of the industry. His selection for the IAASM reflects his deep expertise and the international respect he has earned through years of dedicated practice and academic inquiry.\n\nDr. Akparibo is also the co-founder of CareFlight Ghana, an organization that has pioneered specialized aeromedical services in the country. His work with CareFlight has been instrumental in integrating aerospace medical practices into the broader Ghanaian health system, ensuring that emergency transport and specialized flight medicine are available to those who need them. His induction into the global academy is seen as a victory not only for his personal career but also for the medical profession in Ghana.\n\nThis milestone highlights the growing capacity of African medical professionals to lead in highly specialized scientific fields. By joining the IAASM, Dr. Akparibo is positioned to contribute to international policy-making and research in aerospace medicine. His achievement serves as an inspiration for the next generation of Ghanaian doctors, demonstrating that excellence in niche medical disciplines can lead to recognition on the world's most prestigious platforms.

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Ghana Health Service urges regular eye checks on World Sight Day

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) and medical specialists have called on Ghanaians to prioritize regular eye examinations to prevent avoidable blindness and vision impairment. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 World Sight Day celebration in Accra, health officials emphasized that early detection is crucial for addressing the nation's most common vision issues, particularly uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts. This year's celebration, themed "Eye care for all: Integrating vision into primary health care," focuses on making specialized services more accessible through community-based health structures. Dr. Gladys Fordjour, a Consultant Ophthalmologist, advocated for the formal integration of eye health into Ghana's universal health coverage and national development programs. She argued that vision health is a fundamental pillar of public health that directly impacts national productivity and social development. By extending eye care services beyond the hospital setting and into local communities, the GHS aims to reduce the barriers that prevent citizens from seeking help, including the high costs associated with spectacles and specialized treatments. The advocacy effort also targets specific environments such as schools and workplaces to ensure early intervention. Dr. Fordjour highlighted that good vision is essential for positive educational outcomes in children, prompting a call for regular vision screenings in schools across the country. Additionally, health officials are encouraging employers to promote eye health initiatives within the workplace to ensure employees maintain optimal vision, which is vital for long-term economic productivity. The initiative has received significant support from various stakeholders, including Orbis Ghana and the Ophthalmological Society of Ghana, who were commended for their ongoing roles in enhancing community-level eye screenings. Moving forward, the GHS intends to leverage primary healthcare facilities to provide closer access to vital services. This strategic shift is intended to ensure that any changes in vision are detected and treated promptly, ultimately reducing the burden of preventable blindness in Ghana.

Osabarima Kwasi Atta II endorses Ghana Medical Trust Fund
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Osabarima Kwasi Atta II endorses Ghana Medical Trust Fund

Osabarima Kwasi Atta II, the Omanhene of the Oguaa Traditional Area, has formally endorsed the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), describing the initiative as a beacon of hope for the future of healthcare in Ghana. During a meeting with GMTF Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the traditional leader highlighted the fund's critical role in providing financial relief to families struggling with the high costs of specialized medical care. He emphasized that the existence of such a fund offers a lifeline to those who would otherwise be unable to afford life-saving treatments. The endorsement took place as part of an ongoing sensitization tour by the GMTF aimed at broadening public understanding of its services across the Central Region. Osabarima Kwasi Atta II commended the vision of President John Mahama for establishing the GMTF, noting that the fund addresses a significant gap in the national health system. By focusing on serious and costly medical conditions, the fund aims to alleviate the immense financial burdens that often fall upon vulnerable families during health crises. The Omanhene further emphasized the vital role traditional leaders play in communicating government initiatives to their people. He committed to actively promoting awareness of the fund within his jurisdiction to ensure that eligible families are informed about the support available to them. This collaboration between traditional authorities and the GMTF is expected to enhance the reach and impact of the fund's activities at the grassroots level. Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku expressed her gratitude for the Omanhene’s support, noting that the backing of such an influential traditional authority is essential for the fund’s success. As the GMTF continues its outreach efforts, the administration remains focused on ensuring that the benefits of the fund are accessible to all Ghanaians in need. The visit to Cape Coast serves as a key milestone in the fund's mission to foster community engagement and improve healthcare delivery nationwide.

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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh says doctors in Amissah case may face sanctions

Minister for Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced that medical doctors implicated in the Charles Amissah case are still facing potential professional sanctions as the government implements the findings of an investigative committee. The case, which drew national attention to the challenges within Ghana's emergency healthcare system, has prompted structural reforms aimed at preventing similar incidents. According to the Minister, several institutions, including the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, have already begun acting on the committee’s recommendations to address lapses in patient care and emergency protocols. The government’s response extends beyond disciplinary measures, focusing on systemic improvements to the nation’s medical infrastructure. A central part of these reforms is the introduction of an electronic bed management system, designed to provide real-time data on bed availability across hospitals to streamline admissions. A command center for this system has started operations, serving as a hub for coordinating emergency responses and ensuring patients are directed to facilities with the capacity to treat them immediately. In addition to the bed management initiative, the Ministry of Health is working to secure more funding for emergency care services. This financial boost is intended to support the expansion of emergency departments at major hospitals and enhance the national ambulance service. By increasing the capacity of key medical centers and improving the efficiency of pre-hospital care, the government hopes to create a more resilient healthcare network that can handle critical cases without the delays that characterized the Amissah incident. As the implementation process continues, the Ministry remains committed to ensuring the recommendations lead to lasting change. The potential sanctions for the doctors involved serve as a reminder of the accountability required within the medical profession, while the broader technical and financial reforms aim to provide clinicians with the environment necessary to deliver high-quality care. Minister Akandoh emphasized that these efforts are part of a strategy to restore public confidence in the country's emergency medical services and ensure the safety of all citizens seeking urgent care.

Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital project stalled by $1.6m legal dispute
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Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital project stalled by $1.6m legal dispute

The construction of a dedicated Sickle Cell and Blood Bank facility at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has been suspended since 2022 due to a $1.6 million legal dispute. Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, the Chief Executive Officer of KATH, disclosed this development during a sitting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Wednesday. The project, which is sponsored by the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), has reached a standstill as the corporation and the contractor remain locked in a legal battle over outstanding payments. According to Dr. Baidoo, the project involved a partnership between GNPC and the Ghana Sickle Cell Foundation to provide specialized care and storage facilities. However, work ceased three years ago when the contractor initiated legal proceedings against GNPC. Although KATH is the intended beneficiary of the infrastructure, the hospital management clarified that they are not party to the legal suit, which has left them in a difficult position as they await a resolution between the two primary stakeholders to resume the work. The Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, Abena Osei-Asare, expressed dissatisfaction with the hospital's handling of the situation during the session. She criticized the management for a lack of formal correspondence documenting their efforts to resolve the impasse and warned that the prolonged delay would likely lead to a significant increase in the final cost of the project due to inflationary pressures. Osei-Asare urged KATH to take a more proactive role in facilitating a settlement to prevent the further deterioration of the partially completed structure. Currently, KATH is attempting to encourage the GNPC and the contractor to resolve the dispute or expedite the legal process. The completion of the Sickle Cell and Blood Bank project is considered vital for improving healthcare delivery in the Ashanti Region, as the hospital continues to face pressure on its existing blood storage and specialized treatment units. The committee has signaled that it will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that public funds already invested in the project are not wasted.

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh begins 400-bed Mother and Child Centre construction
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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh begins 400-bed Mother and Child Centre construction

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has officially launched the construction of a new 400-bed Mother and Child Centre at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). Speaking at a Health Sector Update Engagement in Accra, the Minister described the project as a "hospital within a hospital," designed to provide comprehensive maternal and neonatal care. The initiative is a cornerstone of the government's redevelopment plan for KBTH, aimed at significantly reducing maternal mortality and improving the quality of care for newborns in the capital and beyond. The Minister highlighted the urgent need for the facility, noting that Korle Bu’s current emergency infrastructure is severely overstretched. Although the teaching hospital has a total capacity of over 1,000 beds, only 67 are currently dedicated to emergency services. This disparity has frequently led to overcrowding and challenges in patient management. The new 400-bed centre will include dedicated operating theaters and specialized wards, providing a self-contained environment for maternal health that does not rely on the hospital's general emergency beds. Beyond the capital, the government is expanding emergency and maternal capacity across the country. Minister Akandoh announced similar emergency capacity expansions at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, the Tamale Teaching Hospital, and the 37 Military Hospital in Accra. These projects are complemented by the ongoing construction of three new regional hospitals in the Oti, Western North, and Savannah Regions. These infrastructure developments are part of a broader strategy to decentralize high-quality specialized care and ensure that no region is left behind in the health sector's modernization. To ensure these new facilities operate efficiently, the Ministry of Health is piloting a national electronic emergency bed management system. This digital platform is intended to provide real-time visibility into bed availability across major hospitals, preventing the common issue of patients being turned away from facilities that are at full capacity. Additionally, the government has committed to adding 100 new ambulances to the national fleet by 2027 to improve pre-hospital care and response times during medical emergencies. The Ministry is also implementing recommendations from a recent emergency care review to enhance professional standards among health workers.