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.

Executives of Red Cross Ghana and directors of the Ghana Health Service after the launch
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Ghana Health Service Launches REACH Program for 2,300 Local Workers as 47 Professionals Depart for Saint Kitts and Nevis

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has initiated a significant dual-track strategy to bolster the nation's healthcare delivery system, simultaneously launching a large-scale domestic community health program and facilitating international professional development for skilled staff. In a major move to strengthen primary healthcare at the grassroots level, the GHS has partnered with the Ghana Red Cross Society and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to launch the Resilient and Empowered African Community Health (REACH) programme. This initiative is complemented by the government's Health Workforce Migration Initiative, which recently saw the deployment of dozens of Ghanaian health professionals to Saint Kitts and Nevis under a temporary labor exchange agreement. The REACH programme represents a massive investment in local health infrastructure, with plans to recruit and train over 2,300 community health workers across four key regions: Volta, Western, Northern, and Ashanti. During the launch, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea emphasized that the initiative is strategically aligned with Ghana’s free primary healthcare agenda and the President’s goal for universal health coverage. Over a two-year implementation period, these workers will be integrated into national systems to enhance disease detection, improve health data collection, and increase the overall uptake of health services in underserved communities. By empowering local residents to take charge of their health outcomes, the programme aims to create a more resilient national health framework. Parallel to these domestic efforts, the Ministry of Health is managing the external movement of health personnel through a structured migration framework. Recently, 47 Ghanaian health professionals departed for Saint Kitts and Nevis on fixed-term contracts lasting between two and three years. This initiative is designed to provide health workers with lucrative overseas employment and international experience without causing a permanent "brain drain." At a farewell event held at the Accra International Airport, officials including Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo and Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah highlighted that the move safeguards Ghana’s health system by ensuring the professionals return home after their service to apply their newly acquired skills locally. The health workers involved in the migration programme expressed significant enthusiasm, viewing the opportunity as a chance to represent Ghana on a global stage while benefiting from improved remuneration and working conditions. This balanced approach—expanding the community health workforce by thousands domestically while strategically placing specialized staff in international roles—reflects a maturing health human resource strategy. By focusing on both the immediate needs of rural communities through the REACH programme and the career aspirations of professionals via migration initiatives, Ghana aims to build a sustainable, globally integrated, and resilient healthcare sector.

FDA seizes 4,504 unregistered cosmetic products in nationwide crackdown
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FDA Seizes 4,504 Hazardous Cosmetics as Ghana Health Service Reassures Public on Malaria Net Safety

In a concerted effort to safeguard public health, Ghanaian regulatory bodies have intensified enforcement actions and public awareness campaigns. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) recently conducted a nationwide sweep, resulting in the seizure of over 4,500 hazardous cosmetic products. Simultaneously, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has moved to debunk social media misinformation regarding the safety of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) distributed to school children, while veterinary and health experts are calling for more stringent enforcement of food safety regulations across the country. The FDA’s week-long surveillance operation spanned 15 regions and led to the confiscation of 4,504 unregistered and potentially dangerous cosmetic items. Authorities noted that many of these products contained harmful substances such as hydroquinone and steroids, which are known to cause severe health complications. The FDA stressed that consumers should only purchase cosmetics from licensed outlets and must verify product registration to ensure they are not exposing themselves to chemical hazards that can have long-term physiological impacts. Addressing concerns in the educational sector, the GHS issued a firm rebuttal to claims that Interceptor G2 insecticide-treated nets contain harmful chemicals. Distributed as part of a national malaria elimination strategy, the service clarified that these nets are fully approved by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and Ghana’s FDA. Health officials explained that while the nets use low-risk insecticidal compounds, they pose no respiratory risk to children. To ensure comfort, the public is advised to simply air the nets before first use to dissipate any mild odors, as the GHS remains committed to its malaria eradication goals. Parallel to these enforcement actions, experts at the World Food Safety Day event in Accra highlighted critical gaps in the country’s food supply chain. Dr. Benjamin Kissi Sasu of the Veterinary Services Directorate (VSD) pointed to weak enforcement and poor market sanitation as major drivers of food-borne diseases. He urged farmers to use only approved veterinary medicines and emphasized the need for a "One Health approach"—a strategy advocated by Dr. Caryn Agyeman Prempeh to integrate human, animal, and environmental health protocols to combat rising diarrheal diseases and ensure public safety. Collectively, these developments underscore a period of heightened vigilance for Ghana’s health infrastructure. Officials from various agencies, including the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency, have called for sustained stakeholder collaboration to address these multifaceted safety challenges. By combining regulatory crackdowns with proactive public education, authorities aim to build a more resilient health environment where consumers are protected from both physical hazards and the dangers of unverified social media information.

Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Director-General of NACOC, setting the seized drugs ablaze (inset)
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NACOC Destroys 9.6 Tonnes of Cannabis and 47kg of Cocaine as Anti-Drug Agencies Intensify Regional Campaigns

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) of Ghana has marked World Drug Day with a massive destruction of illegal substances, including 9.6 tonnes of cannabis and 46.89 kilograms of cocaine. The court-sanctioned operation, led by Director-General Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, serves as a stark reminder of the country's ongoing battle against drug trafficking. Brigadier General Mantey highlighted that while law enforcement remains critical, the ultimate goal is to safeguard public health and safety through a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes prevention and community education in the fight against drug abuse. In the Upper East Region, the commission demonstrated the humanitarian side of its mandate by extending support to those directly affected by substance use disorders. The Regional Command, headed by Mr. Saeed Abdul-Aziz, donated essential items including clothing, toiletries, and beverages to the Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital in Bolgatanga. Mr. Abdul-Aziz emphasized that the fight against narcotics must balance law enforcement with robust rehabilitation efforts. Patients and staff at the facility expressed deep gratitude for the support, which many viewed as a vital source of hope for those undergoing the difficult process of recovery and societal reintegration. The campaign against drug abuse also saw significant activity across the West African sub-region, with the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) intensifying educational efforts in Nigeria. At the Government Secondary School in Lugbe, Abuja, over 300 students participated in a sensitization program focused on the physical and social dangers of illicit drug use. NACAT Operations Manager Stanley Ugagbe warned that substance abuse is a primary driver of academic failure and long-term health complications, urging the youth to resist peer pressure and become advocates for drug awareness within their own communities. These collective actions across Ghana and Nigeria highlight a unified front against the narcotics trade and its devastating health impacts. From the high-profile destruction of seized contraband to grassroots school sensitizations and humanitarian support for rehabilitation centers, authorities are emphasizing that the drug crisis requires more than just policing. The activities surrounding World Drug Day reinforce the necessity of a shared societal responsibility to promote healthier lifestyles and support the long-term recovery of those struggling with addiction.

Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital Marks Centenary with Urgent Call for Increased Pediatric Investment
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Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital Marks Centenary with Urgent Call for Increased Pediatric Investment

The Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital, a cornerstone of pediatric care in Ghana, has celebrated its 100th anniversary with a clarion call for intensified investment in child healthcare. Established in 1926 following a visit by Princess Marie Louise, who was moved by the high child mortality rates of the era, the hospital has transitioned from a modest facility into the nation’s leading specialized pediatric referral center. The centenary milestone serves not only as a celebration of a century of service but also as a platform for stakeholders to demand renewed national commitment to the health and survival of Ghana’s youngest citizens. Despite the hospital’s significant evolution and its critical role in training medical professionals, it continues to face formidable obstacles. Medical experts, including Dr. Margaret Neizer, pointed out that while clinical services have expanded to include neonatal care and treatment for communicable diseases, the country still grapples with a high neonatal mortality rate of 22.8 deaths per 1,000 live births. To address these persistent gaps, the hospital leadership is advocating for a robust digital transformation, enhanced research capabilities, and a significant expansion of the specialized health workforce to ensure that pediatric care keeps pace with modern medical standards. A pressing concern highlighted during the anniversary celebrations was the safety and security of patients within healthcare facilities. Following recent reports of child abductions, officials emphasized the urgent need for improved hospital infrastructure and modern surveillance systems to protect vulnerable children. Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, joined the call for enhanced security measures, linking the safety of the hospital environment directly to the quality of care. She stressed that the physical and psychological well-being of pediatric patients must remain a top priority as the facility enters its second century of operations. Looking toward the future, the hospital is focusing on sustainable financing through the promotion of an Endowment Fund designed to enhance pediatric services. This initiative aims to bridge the resource gap by attracting contributions from the government, industry players, and development partners. By fostering stronger public-private partnerships and encouraging innovation, the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital seeks to modernize its facilities and maintain its status as a center of excellence. Stakeholders remain hopeful that this centenary will mark a turning point for healthcare funding in Ghana, ensuring the hospital remains equipped to save lives for the next hundred years.

Dr Benjamin Dzoboku ( right), Managing Director of Republic Bank, being supported by Braimah Seidu (middle), District Chief Executive for Tolon, to unveil the borehole
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Saltpond Municipal Hospital and Dingoni Community Benefit from New Large-Scale Water Infrastructure Projects

In a significant boost to public health and healthcare delivery, two major water infrastructure projects have been commissioned in the Central and Northern regions of Ghana. The Mfantseman-Saltpond Development Alliance (MSDA), led by its founder Ernest De-Graft Egyir, has launched a massive 50,000-litre automated water supply system at the Saltpond Municipal Hospital. This project, which secured support from over 100 donors, is designed to resolve persistent water shortages that have long plagued the facility, hindering its ability to provide consistent medical services. The initiative was officially announced during the Saltpond Homecoming Festival as a legacy project aimed at fostering sustainable community development. At the Saltpond Municipal Hospital, officials noted that the lack of a reliable water source previously forced the institution to spend significant financial resources on purchasing water, which often came at the expense of other critical areas of patient care. Dr. John Moses Wireko, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, praised the MSDA intervention as a symbol of hope and a major relief to the hospital's operational budget. Mr. De-Graft Egyir emphasized that the automated system is a testament to what community collaboration can achieve, urging other stakeholders to join hands in improving local infrastructure to enhance the quality of life for residents. Meanwhile, in the Tolon District of the Northern Region, the residents of Dingoni have received a solar-powered mechanized borehole provided by Republic Bank (Ghana) PLC. This project, part of the bank's corporate social responsibility initiative, aims to provide a sustainable source of clean water to improve sanitation and health outcomes in the area. The Managing Director of Republic Bank highlighted that clean water is a fundamental requirement for human development and disease prevention. Local leaders in Dingoni expressed their gratitude for the facility, noting its potential to alleviate the perennial water crisis in the district, and pledged to ensure its long-term maintenance. These projects highlight a growing trend of private and community-led interventions addressing critical gaps in Ghana’s public health infrastructure. While the MSDA project focuses on clinical environments, the Republic Bank project targets community-level sanitation, together forming a multi-pronged approach to health improvement through water security. As Saltpond looks forward to its second Homecoming Festival in August 2026, these developments serve as a blueprint for how strategic partnerships can create lasting impacts on the nation's healthcare system and general public welfare.

Ghana Medical Help Donates GH"7.5 Million Dialysis Lifeline to Northern Ghana Hospitals
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Ghana Medical Help Donates GH"7.5 Million Dialysis Lifeline to Northern Ghana Hospitals

Ghana Medical Help (GMH) has delivered a significant GH"7.53 million boost to healthcare in Northern Ghana through the donation of 17 Fresenius 5008 dialysis machines and specialized imaging systems. This initiative, funded entirely by international philanthropists, is specifically targeted at the Upper West and Upper East Regions to address the growing crisis of kidney disease. The donation serves as a critical intervention for a region where patients have historically faced immense geographical and financial hurdles, often forced to travel hundreds of kilometers to southern facilities for life-sustaining treatment. The distribution of the medical equipment aims to decentralize specialized care and establish sustainable treatment centers in rural areas. Key beneficiaries include the Upper West Regional Hospital, which received seven machines, and St. Theresa’s Catholic Hospital in Nandom, which is now set to establish a brand-new dialysis center with three units. By providing these advanced imaging and dialysis systems, the Canadian-Ghanaian charity is bridging a substantial gap in the regional medical infrastructure, ensuring that high-quality care is accessible to those in underserved communities. GMH Country Director, Dr. Dominic Akaateba, has emphasized that the project's success hinges on a shift away from "voluntourism" and toward genuine local ownership. He urged hospital administrators and staff to prioritize rigorous maintenance and ethical patient care, warning that the investment must not be undermined by corrupt practices or negligence. Dr. Akaateba highlighted that while the machines are provided without expectation of financial return, the local health authorities must demonstrate a commitment to utilizing and preserving the equipment to maximize its long-term benefits for the populace. Despite the arrival of this high-end technology, local health officials have identified a critical need for specialized personnel to operate the new machines effectively. The region continues to face a staffing crisis, and the sustainability of these new dialysis services depends on the recruitment and retention of trained medical professionals. Moving forward, the project is expected to not only alleviate the immediate suffering of kidney patients but also serve as a catalyst for broader healthcare improvements and the attraction of medical talent to Ghana’s northern regions.

President Mahama Expands Free Primary Health Care with GH"2.9 Billion Trust Fund for Chronic Illnesses
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President Mahama Expands Free Primary Health Care with GH"2.9 Billion Trust Fund for Chronic Illnesses

President John Dramani Mahama has accelerated the implementation of the Free Primary Health Care initiative, a multi-pronged strategy designed to provide all Ghanaians with equitable access to essential medical services regardless of their socio-economic status. This expansion includes the commissioning of new Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, the local launch of the program in districts like Ellembelle, and a significant GH"2.9 billion financial commitment to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF). Speaking during an inspection of a newly completed CHPS compound in Ohiaba, Central Region, the President emphasized that quality healthcare is a fundamental right rather than a privilege, urging citizens to actively utilize these services to reduce avoidable deaths through early detection and routine monitoring. In the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, local authorities officially launched the program in Nkroful, introducing a mobile clinic van to facilitate immediate outreach to underserved communities. Dr. Augustine Amoako, the District Director of Health, noted that Ellembelle was selected as a pilot site due to its strong track record in health delivery. The initiative focuses on four key pillars for success: inter-sectorial collaboration, community involvement, appropriate technology, and the consistent availability of essential resources. Concurrently, the government has committed to a policy of constructing two CHPS facilities annually in every district across the country. These facilities are specifically equipped to handle maternal and child health, general primary care, and regular screenings for conditions like high blood pressure, which the President highlighted as a critical step in preventing severe health crises. A central component of this healthcare overhaul is the "Mahama Care" program, supported by the GH"2.9 billion allocation to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. This fund is specifically designed to alleviate the financial burden on the 40% of Ghanaians currently outside the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) or those suffering from chronic illnesses whose treatments are not fully covered by traditional insurance. To ensure the fund's success, Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo and GMTF Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku recently engaged Regional Ministers at Jubilee House. They called for a robust nationwide awareness campaign, tasking regional leaders to collaborate with community heads to ensure eligible patients can access life-saving treatments without the fear of financial ruin. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh described the initiative as a landmark intervention, highlighting its three main pillars: free primary healthcare services, free NHIS enrollment, and the specialized support offered through the GMTF. This shift toward a more inclusive healthcare model aligns with warnings from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the risk of out-of-pocket health expenses pushing millions into poverty. By prioritizing primary healthcare and preventive screenings, the Ghanaian government aims to significantly improve national life expectancy and achieve universal health coverage by 2030. District leaders have been urged to maintain these new facilities diligently, ensuring they remain equipped to serve the public for years to come.

Dr Fred Adomako-Boateng — Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services
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Ghana Scales Up Health Interventions to Combat CSM Outbreak, Neglected Tropical Diseases, and Allergic Conditions

Ghana's health sector is witnessing a multi-pronged approach to disease management as officials and lawmakers mobilize to tackle immediate outbreaks and long-term health challenges. In the Lambussie District of the Upper West Region, Member of Parliament Professor Titus Kofi Beyuo has donated GH"55,000 worth of medical supplies to the local Health Directorate to bolster the fight against a Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) outbreak. The donation, which includes antibiotics, face masks, thermometers, and hand sanitizers, comes at a critical time as the district has recorded 11 suspected cases and one fatality. Prof. Beyuo emphasized the need for community vigilance and safer health practices to curb the spread of the disease. Simultaneously, the Ashanti Region is preparing for a significant public health milestone with a mass drug administration program targeting river blindness and bilharzia. Scheduled to run from June 20 to July 3, 2026, the initiative aims to reach 80% of the eligible population across nine districts. Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services, has encouraged the public to participate fully despite potential mild reactions. He noted that common side effects such as dizziness and headaches are temporary signs that the medication is effectively combating parasites. This program builds on previous successes in the region, where coverage rates have reached as high as 86.6% in specific areas. On a broader scale, the African Alliance for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (AFRICALLI) is working to shift the focus of continental health systems toward allergic and immunologic diseases. During World Allergy Week 2026, observed from June 21 to 27, the organization is advocating for allergies to be treated as essential health concerns rather than marginal issues. AFRICALLI highlights that untreated allergies lead to significant economic and social burdens, including school absenteeism and lost productivity. The alliance is calling on governments to invest in trained allergists and improve access to essential medications to prevent avoidable deaths and improve quality of life across Africa. These collective efforts underscore a shifting landscape in Ghanaian and African healthcare, where reactive emergency responses are being paired with proactive, large-scale prevention strategies. Whether through the direct provision of life-saving supplies in the wake of an outbreak or the implementation of region-wide drug distributions, the focus remains on building resilient health systems. Moving forward, the integration of specialized care for chronic conditions like allergies alongside the fight against infectious and neglected tropical diseases will be vital for achieving comprehensive public health goals and ensuring the well-being of all citizens.

European Heatwaves and KNUST Research Highlight Growing Climate-Driven Health Crisis in Global North and South
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European Heatwaves and KNUST Research Highlight Growing Climate-Driven Health Crisis in Global North and South

The intensifying global climate crisis is increasingly being recognized as a direct threat to public health, as evidenced by simultaneous emergencies across Europe and escalating concerns for agricultural workers in Ghana. In Europe, a severe heatwave that has already claimed hundreds of lives is shifting eastward, prompting national health alerts as temperatures approach 40°C. Simultaneously, researchers in West Africa are warning that the resilience of the vital cocoa sector is fundamentally linked to the health and wellbeing of farmers, who are struggling with the adverse physical and economic effects of changing weather patterns. These parallel developments illustrate how climate change acts as a force multiplier for health vulnerabilities regardless of geographic location. Across Europe, nations are bracing for extreme temperatures as the heatwave moves from Spain and France toward Germany and the Czech Republic. In France, the Prime Minister has elevated health alerts to the highest level following a surge in heat-related fatalities, particularly among the elderly and vulnerable. Spain has already reported over 200 deaths. The United Nations climate chief has explicitly linked these unprecedented weather events to climate change, urging a rapid transition to renewable energy as emergency services struggle to cope with the influx of heatstroke and respiratory cases that are stretching national health systems to their limits. In Ghana, the health implications of climate change are manifesting through long-term systemic vulnerabilities in the cocoa industry. Dr. Albert A. Arhin of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) recently highlighted that climate shocks are not only reducing crop yields but are also severely impacting farmer health and livelihoods. A study involving over 1,000 farmers revealed that essential issues—such as access to healthcare, rural road infrastructure, and fair pricing—are being neglected in current policy frameworks. Experts like Jose Lopez Ganem of the Institute for Cacao and Chocolate Research argue that without significant investment in farmer health and social infrastructure, the industry cannot withstand the mounting environmental pressures. These diverse geographical challenges underscore a singular reality: the necessity of integrating health and welfare into climate adaptation strategies. Whether it is managing immediate thermal stress in European urban centers or bolstering the long-term resilience of West African agricultural communities, the global response must move beyond production metrics to prioritize human life. As record-breaking temperatures continue to stretch safety nets thin, the call for policy shifts toward holistic farmer welfare and robust public health infrastructure becomes increasingly urgent to ensure global food and health security.

Public and Private Sectors Spearhead Preventive Health Initiatives and Infrastructure Expansion Across Ghana
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Public and Private Sectors Spearhead Preventive Health Initiatives and Infrastructure Expansion Across Ghana

Ghana’s healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant shift toward preventive medicine and expanded access as government agencies, corporate entities, and non-profit organizations roll out major health-driven initiatives. From the launch of the Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) initiative in the South Dayi District to specialized corporate wellness programs at Prudential Bank, these efforts aim to reduce the financial burden on citizens while promoting the early detection of chronic conditions. These developments highlight a growing national consensus that proactive health management is essential for long-term productivity and community well-being. In the South Dayi District, the implementation of the Free Primary Health Care initiative marks a pivotal reform in local health delivery. Aimed at improving essential service access without the immediate need for a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) card, the program allows residents to use their Ghana Card or other valid IDs for screenings related to hypertension, diabetes, and maternal care. This initiative redirects financial support from existing NHIS resources to ensure that out-of-pocket costs do not prevent residents from seeking medical attention, representing a significant commitment by local authorities to equitable healthcare access. Parallel to public efforts, the private and non-profit sectors are addressing health gaps through targeted screenings and wellness programs. Prudential Bank recently launched a fully funded "Prevention First" health screening for its staff in collaboration with Bob Freeman Hospital, emphasizing mental health and workplace ergonomics as strategic priorities. Similarly, the KGL Foundation organized a comprehensive health screening event in Bolgatanga, providing residents with tests for Hepatitis B and C, HIV, malaria, and blood sugar levels. Public Health Nurse Rosemary Akolbire noted that such interventions are vital in managing non-communicable diseases, especially for residents who often find routine check-ups financially out of reach. Infrastructure development also received a boost in the Obuasi area, where the Fifty 50 Club commissioned a new pediatric and maternal care centre at the Kyekyewere-Dadwen Community Health Centre. Funded with GH"205,930 by the non-profit association, the facility is part of a larger mission to improve maternal health outcomes and support local communities. This project, which follows previous donations of medical equipment, demonstrates how membership-driven associations can play a crucial role in strengthening Ghana's healthcare system by providing specialized facilities where they are most needed. These multi-sectoral interventions collectively underscore a transition from reactive treatment to a culture of proactive wellness across the country. Whether through government policy, corporate responsibility, or grassroots philanthropy, the emphasis on early detection and accessible primary care is expected to reduce the national disease burden. As these programs continue to scale, stakeholders remain hopeful that the integration of preventive services and improved infrastructure will lead to a more resilient and healthier Ghanaian population.

NACOC Deputy Director General on how students are selling egg and pepper, ice cream laced with 'wee' on campus - Alex Twum-Barimah, Dep Director-General
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NACOC Warns of Student-Led Drug Trafficking and Rising Substance Abuse in Ghanaian Schools

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has issued a stern warning regarding an alarming shift in drug-related activities within Ghana's educational institutions, revealing that students are increasingly transitioning from consumers to active distributors. According to Alexander Twum-Barimah, the Deputy Director-General of NACOC, tertiary students are now openly selling cannabis-infused products on campus. This alert follows the recent arrest of five students from Central University who were caught producing and retailing various cannabis-laced goods, including ice cream, sobolo, and traditional egg-and-pepper snacks. Twum-Barimah expressed deep concern that students are now leading the supply chain rather than being mere victims of external traffickers. The trend of substance abuse extends into Senior High Schools (SHS), where officials have linked the rise in illicit drug use to growing indiscipline and the influence of digital platforms. Samuel Yebua, the NACOC Ashanti Regional Commander, highlighted that social media, particularly TikTok, has played a significant role in normalizing drug use among the youth. He noted that this spike in substance abuse often manifests as direct confrontations with school authorities and a general breakdown of order within academic environments. The sophistication of packaging—disguising narcotics as common snacks—makes detection increasingly difficult for school administrators. In response to these developments, NACOC has intensified its outreach and capacity-building initiatives. The Commission recently organized seminars for guidance counselors and teachers to equip them with the necessary skills to identify and manage students struggling with addiction. These training sessions focus on early detection and the provision of structured support systems within schools. Officials emphasize that while enforcement is necessary, the primary strategy must involve comprehensive public education and robust collaboration between the commission and educational institutions. As the country prepares for World Drug Day in 2026, NACOC is calling for increased resources to bolster its nationwide campaign. The commission is advocating for a shift toward treatment and rehabilitation for affected students, alongside stricter monitoring of campus commercial activities. The overarching goal is to dismantle the internal distribution networks operated by students and provide a pathway for recovery for those caught in the cycle of addiction, ensuring that educational environments remain safe and conducive for learning.

FDA Upper East Regional Head Abel Ndego Urges Public to Verify Food Hygiene Permits at Eateries
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FDA Upper East Regional Head Abel Ndego Urges Public to Verify Food Hygiene Permits at Eateries

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has intensified its call for consumer vigilance, urging the public to patronize only food establishments that prominently display valid food hygiene permits. Abel Ndego, the Acting Upper East Regional Head of the FDA, emphasized that these permits serve as a critical indicator that an eatery has undergone rigorous inspection and meets national safety requirements. By checking for these documents before dining, consumers can protect themselves from foodborne illnesses and encourage vendors to maintain high sanitary standards. This directive aims to empower the public as the final line of defense in ensuring food safety across the region. This advisory follows a comprehensive training program organized by the FDA for food vendors and restaurant operators. During the session, Mr. Ndego explained that a valid permit confirms not only the cleanliness of the premises but also the medical certification of the staff. This certification ensures that individuals handling food are free from communicable diseases, thereby significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination during the preparation and serving process. The training was designed to bridge the gap between regulatory requirements and the daily operational practices of the local food service industry. Beyond basic cleanliness, the training focused on sophisticated food safety management techniques, including proper storage and stock rotation. Vendors were educated on the "First-In-First-Out" (FIFO) and "First-Expired-First-Out" (FEFO) methods to ensure that ingredients are used while still fresh and safe. The program also addressed various food safety hazards and the importance of maintaining an organized, professional kitchen environment. By providing a platform for interactive dialogue, the FDA allowed operators to address specific challenges they face in complying with these standards, fostering a collaborative rather than purely punitive approach to regulation. The FDA's initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public health through proactive education and enforcement. As vendors commit to upholding these newly reinforced hygiene standards, the Authority continues to monitor compliance across the region to ensure that the health of the populace is not compromised. For the general public, the message remains clear: the presence of an FDA food hygiene permit is a non-negotiable benchmark for safety. This ongoing engagement between regulators, service providers, and the community is essential for building a robust and sustainable food safety culture in Ghana.