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.

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John Dramani Mahama announces plans for three psychiatric hospitals

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government will construct three new psychiatric hospitals to expand access to mental healthcare across the country. The facilities are slated for development in the Ashanti, Northern, and Volta Regions, marking a significant effort to decentralize specialized medical services that have historically been concentrated in the southern coastal areas. The President made this disclosure during a Citizens’ Engagement Open Forum in Goaso, held as part of his two-day 'Resetting Ghana' tour. During the forum, President Mahama emphasized the importance of mental health infrastructure in the national development agenda. He noted that providing these regional facilities will reduce the burden on existing psychiatric hospitals and ensure that patients in the middle and northern belts of Ghana can access critical care closer to home. The initiative is intended to strengthen the overall healthcare delivery system and address the long-standing neglect of mental health services in several parts of the country. In addition to the infrastructure plans, the President called on the youth to pursue careers in critical health professions to help address persistent staffing shortages. He stressed that while building hospitals is essential, the availability of trained medical professionals is equally vital for effective service delivery. Mahama indicated that the government is prepared to support specialized training programs to encourage more young Ghanaians to enter the healthcare field, particularly in high-demand and underserved sectors. President Mahama also addressed international relations within the health sector, stating that the government is open to reopening discussions on health cooperation agreements with the United States. He mentioned that the U.S. government has expressed interest in revisiting a previously rejected health pact, which could potentially unlock new resources and expertise for Ghana's medical system. The Citizens’ Engagement Forum serves as a platform for the administration to receive direct feedback from the public as part of its ongoing governance and outreach efforts.

GMTF targets Volta's healthcare gaps with equipment, specialist training
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Ghana Medical Trust Fund targets healthcare gaps in Volta Region

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) is intensifying its efforts to bridge healthcare gaps in the Volta Region through a new strategy focusing on specialized equipment, specialist training, and financial aid. Administrator Mrs. Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku has outlined a comprehensive approach for the region, urging medical professionals to document specific service gaps to help the Fund provide evidence-based interventions. This expansion is part of the broader ‘Mahama Cares’ initiative designed to improve clinical outcomes and reduce the financial burden on patients with serious medical conditions. Speaking at an anniversary reflection event in Ho, Mrs. Darko-Opoku detailed the Fund’s four-pillar framework, which includes direct financial support for patients, investment in medical infrastructure, specialist training, and the promotion of research and innovation. This multi-faceted approach aims to ensure that the healthcare system can manage complex cases locally, reducing the need for patient transfers and minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for vulnerable families. Dr. Emmanuel Kasu of the Ho Teaching Hospital emphasized that the success of the GMTF must be measured by tangible improvements in patient care, such as reduced waiting times and increased access to specialized treatments. He called for better coordination between the Fund and regional hospitals to ensure early patient identification. The GMTF has already completed its first year of operation, which included pilot programs, rehabilitation projects at major hospitals, and the establishment of a partnership for a new diagnostic center in Accra. Institutional support for the program has also come from the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG). During a consultative forum in Abokobi, the Moderator of the PCG, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, expressed the church’s formal endorsement of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and the Free Primary Healthcare Programme. He noted that these initiatives are vital for achieving Universal Health Coverage and alleviating the financial strain on the nation's most vulnerable populations. Mrs. Darko-Opoku reaffirmed the government's commitment to closing infrastructure gaps and urged healthcare workers to actively inform patients about the resources available through the Fund. As the GMTF continues its rollout in the Volta Region and beyond, it remains focused on creating a sustainable and accessible specialized healthcare system that meets the evolving needs of all Ghanaians.

A woman with dark curly hair and pink-framed glasses is speaking into a microphone at a podium. She is wearing a green-patterned dress and appears to be delivering a speech at an event hosted at Lancaster Kumasi City, as indicated by the logo on the podium.
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Rita Naa Odoley Sowah calls for handwashing to be a national priority

The Deputy Minister for Local Government, Dr. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has called on Ghanaians to revive handwashing habits established during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure long-term public health. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Global Handwashing Day, themed "I am a handwashing hero," she emphasized that hand hygiene must be integrated into public facilities and national development priorities. The annual event, celebrated on October 15, seeks to highlight the life-saving importance of handwashing with soap and the prevention of avoidable diseases. Stakeholders at the national event, including representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, urged the government to provide sustainable funding and infrastructure for hygiene. Dr. Beata Awinpoka Akanyani of the Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS) noted that prioritizing handwashing could significantly reduce the spread of germs and improve the health of the national workforce. The speakers collectively called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to incorporate functional handwashing facilities into their development plans and ensure regular maintenance in public spaces. In a practical demonstration of these goals, the Environmental Health Department of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) conducted outreach at local schools. The TMA donated handwashing basins, soap, and towels to two schools in Tema to promote better sanitation practices. Mrs. Bridget Seyram Diapim-Fenuku, a lead official at the TMA, emphasized the health benefits of hygiene, while staff demonstrated effective handwashing techniques to students. The initiative encouraged young people to take ownership of these facilities and act as hygiene ambassadors within their communities. The call for improved hygiene comes as part of a broader push for enhanced coordination among various sectors to prevent the outbreak of diseases. By involving traditional leaders and ensuring that handwashing remains visible and funded, officials hope to sustain the behavioral changes seen in recent years. This unified approach aims to make handwashing a permanent fixture of Ghanaian public life, moving beyond temporary emergency responses to a consistent national standard of hygiene.

Mental Health Authority records 36,196 cases in first half of 2026
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Mental Health Authority records 36,196 cases in first half of 2026

Ghana’s Mental Health Authority (MHA) has reported that 36,196 cases of five major mental health conditions were recorded between January and June 2026. This represents an increase of 6,414 cases compared to the same period in the previous year. According to official data, the leading conditions identified in health facilities nationwide include schizophrenia-related disorders, epilepsy, and depression. The rise in documented cases comes as the Authority prepares for World Mental Health Day, emphasizing the need for robust data to drive policy decisions. Health officials and industry experts suggest that these rising statistics reflect a positive shift in public awareness rather than a new epidemic of mental illness. Lydia Abena Manu Adofo, CEO of The Willingway Recovery and Rehabilitation Centre, noted that the surge is likely a sign of improved help-seeking behavior. She explained that while stigma historically forced many Ghanaians to hide their conditions, recent educational efforts have encouraged more individuals to seek professional treatment, revealing the true scale of the nation's mental health burden. Despite the improved reporting, significant challenges remain in the sector, including a rise in drug-related psychosis among young men. The Mental Health Authority is advocating for the active involvement of individuals with lived experience in shaping mental health policies and services. This approach aims to create more supportive environments and ensure that media representation and public education effectively address the realities of those living with these conditions. Officials believe that empowering service users will help dismantle remaining barriers to care. To address the growing demand, stakeholders are calling for increased government investment and the establishment of regional rehabilitation centers to improve access to care. Dr. Kofi Newman highlighted the disparities between Ghana’s mental health system and international standards, urging for stronger collaboration and funding. As more people come forward for treatment, the focus of the MHA and its partners is shifting toward ensuring that the national health infrastructure is sufficiently resourced to provide high-quality, accessible care for all citizens.

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MoFFA requests 20 additional staff to monitor 200 mortuaries

The Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency (MoFFA) has requested at least 20 additional personnel to bolster its monitoring of over 200 facilities across the country. Speaking during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing on October 9, 2026, the Acting Deputy Registrar of MoFFA, Dr. Philip Sarpong, highlighted that the current workforce of 22 is insufficient to ensure that all morgues comply with health and safety standards. The agency emphasized that adequate supervision is crucial not only for regulatory compliance but also for the safety of mortuary attendants who face daily health risks. Dr. Sarpong explained that the agency is struggling to manage regional operations due to the personnel shortage. Currently, MoFFA has licensed approximately 200 facilities nationwide. However, several major institutions, including the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, remain unlicensed because they have failed to meet the required safety and operational protocols. The committee members expressed concern that these gaps in licensing indicate a wider problem with facility standards and the agency's ability to enforce them without more boots on the ground. The PAC hearing also brought to light the deteriorating state of many public hospital morgues, which are frequently overcrowded. Dr. Sarpong confirmed that many facilities are operating well beyond their intended storage capacity, leading to concerns about the dignified handling of deceased bodies. In response to a 2024 audit, MoFFA has developed new regulatory tools to address these gaps, stressing that the mismanagement of bodies can cause severe distress to families and pose significant public health risks. To improve professional standards within the sector, MoFFA has begun implementing mandatory health and safety protocols and specialized training for staff. Dr. Sarpong noted that 176 mortuary attendants graduated from training programs this year. The PAC reiterated the need for strict minimum competency standards to be enforced across the board, ensuring that all facilities—regardless of their size—uphold the necessary medical and ethical standards for the treatment of the dead.

Ghana Health Service targets 244,869 in Upper West yellow fever campaign
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Ghana Health Service targets 244,869 in Upper West yellow fever campaign

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially launched a five-day reactive vaccination campaign in the Upper West Region, aiming to immunize 244,869 residents against yellow fever. The exercise, which commenced on Wednesday, October 14, and is scheduled to conclude on Sunday, October 18, 2026, focuses on three districts following a recently declared outbreak. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh confirmed that while the situation is currently under control, the campaign is a necessary response to 450 suspected cases and three confirmed fatalities linked to the virus since September. The campaign specifically targets individuals aged between nine months and 60 years. To ensure maximum coverage, the GHS has deployed trained health workers to stationary sites at health facilities and temporary public venues such as schools and markets. Additionally, mobile teams have been dispatched to reach remote and hard-to-access communities. Participants receive an official yellow vaccination card upon completion of the exercise; officials noted that these cards are crucial for accessing future health services and that a single dose of the vaccine provides lifelong protection. Health Minister Akandoh stated that the government has requested an additional 187,000 vaccine doses to bolster stocks in the affected areas and ensure no one is left behind. Emergency response measures were activated immediately following lab confirmation of the three fatalities. Health officials are maintaining a heavy presence in the region, with ongoing monitoring visits to ensure compliance with medical standards and to address any logistical challenges that may arise during the five-day period. Beyond the immediate vaccination efforts, the Ministry of Health is urging citizens to adopt rigorous preventative measures, including the use of mosquito nets and the elimination of standing water. Residents are encouraged to report symptoms such as sudden fever, headache, and jaundice to the nearest health facility. The GHS emphasizes that widespread participation in this reactive campaign is the most effective way to prevent further transmission and protect the region from future outbreaks.

Medical experts warn against six habits linked to kidney damage
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Medical experts warn against six habits linked to kidney damage

Medical professionals have identified several common daily behaviors that significantly increase the risk of long-term kidney damage and eventual renal failure. These habits, often overlooked by the public, include the frequent postponement of urination and insufficient daily water intake. Kidney failure occurs when these vital organs can no longer efficiently filter metabolic waste and excess fluids from the bloodstream, leading to a dangerous accumulation of toxins within the body. Among the most critical risk factors highlighted is the misuse of medication, particularly the practice of self-medicating with antibiotics. Experts warn that taking medications without professional guidance can put undue stress on the kidneys, which are responsible for processing and excreting these substances. Additionally, the habit of delaying urination is cited as a significant concern, as it can compromise renal health over time. These behaviors, when practiced frequently, create a cumulative strain on the body's filtration system. Hydration plays a fundamental role in maintaining renal health, yet many individuals fail to consume adequate amounts of water throughout the day. Water is essential for the kidneys to flush out sodium and toxins from the body effectively. Chronic dehydration makes the filtration process more difficult and increases the likelihood of developing complications. The warning emphasizes that these everyday habits are primary drivers in the increasing prevalence of renal issues, which can progress to total kidney failure if lifestyle changes are not implemented. To safeguard kidney health, health advocates recommend a proactive approach to daily lifestyle management. This includes maintaining consistent hydration, responding promptly to the body's signals to urinate, and strictly avoiding the use of prescription drugs like antibiotics without a doctor’s supervision. By addressing these specific behaviors, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of chronic kidney disease and ensure the long-term functionality of their renal system.

Tamale Teaching Hospital records 44 new breast cancer cases in six months
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Tamale Teaching Hospital records 44 new breast cancer cases in six months

Oncology specialists at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) have reported 44 new cases of breast cancer during the first half of the year. This follow-up to the 145 cases recorded throughout 2025 underscores a persistent and concerning rise in the prevalence of the disease within the Northern Region. Breast cancer continues to be the most common illness treated at the hospital’s oncology unit, prompting urgent calls for increased public awareness and proactive medical screening to save lives. The statistics were highlighted by Evelyn Osei Amoah, a specialist oncology nurse, during an annual screening event organized to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. Speaking at the program initiated by the Brooks Dreams Foundation, Amoah emphasized that the current trend highlights the critical need for early detection. She commended the media for its instrumental role in driving awareness, which has encouraged a growing number of women in the region to present themselves for medical examination rather than relying solely on traditional interventions. The Brooks Dreams Foundation, led by CEO Hajia Memuna Kaleem, is spearheading efforts to screen over 400 individuals this year. Beyond providing a platform for diagnosis, the foundation offers essential financial assistance to patients whose cases are confirmed, helping to bridge the gap between diagnosis and treatment. Kaleem noted that continuous community engagement and improved screening processes are beginning to yield results in dismantling traditional beliefs and cultural myths that have historically delayed women from seeking timely medical care. As the hospital continues to manage the influx of cases, health officials are urging the public to treat breast cancer as a medical priority that requires professional intervention. The integration of community-led foundations and professional healthcare services at TTH is viewed as a vital strategy for improving survival rates in Northern Ghana. By bypassing traditional delays and utilizing available screening resources, medical experts hope to significantly reduce the impact of the disease through early oncology support.

Academic City University donates rehabilitation staircase to Ga East Hospital
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Academic City University donates rehabilitation staircase to Ga East Hospital

Academic City University has presented a specialized pediatric rehabilitation staircase to the Ga East Municipal Hospital to bolster physiotherapy services for young patients. The donation was the result of a hands-on project by the university's Level 400 Biomedical Engineering students, who identified a lack of specialized equipment tailored specifically for children undergoing rehabilitation. This initiative highlights the growing role of indigenous biomedical engineering in addressing resource gaps within the Ghanaian healthcare sector. The project began when students noticed that standard rehabilitation equipment often fails to meet the ergonomic and safety needs of pediatric patients. Under the supervision of the university’s Biomedical Engineering Department, the students designed a staircase specifically for child-focused recovery. The design underwent several refinements to ensure it met medical standards before being manufactured and formally presented to the hospital authorities. During the presentation, Mr. Jacob Quarshie of Academic City University emphasized the institution's commitment to the practical application of classroom learning. He noted that the university encourages students to solve real-world challenges through innovation, bridge the gap between theory and practice, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The development of the staircase serves as a practical example of how academic research can be translated into tangible health solutions. Ms. Veronica Momo-Blabi, the Chief Nursing Officer at Ga East Municipal Hospital, expressed gratitude for the donation, stating that the equipment would significantly improve the quality of care for children requiring physical therapy. She affirmed the hospital's commitment to utilizing the staircase to enhance recovery outcomes for pediatric patients. This collaboration serves as a model for future partnerships between academic institutions and healthcare facilities to drive local innovation.

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Pope Leo XIV begins post-operative walking at Gemelli Hospital

Pope Leo XIV has begun walking and resumed a normal diet at Rome's Gemelli Hospital following a successful 90-minute lung surgery. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the procedure to remove a lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma. Medical reports released on Wednesday indicate that the surgery was completed without complications and the Pope is recovering as expected. The surgery was scheduled after doctors discovered a well-contained nodule on the Pope's lung during a recent medical examination. Although the diagnosis of cancer has caused significant concern among the global Catholic community, the Vatican emphasized that the Pope had been asymptomatic before the operation. The pontiff had personally shared the news of the upcoming procedure during a Sunday prayer session, informing the faithful of the medical team's findings. During the operation, surgeons successfully removed the affected tissue from the lower lobe of the right lung. In the days since the procedure, the Pope's physical resilience has been evident as he started his post-operative walking regimen and returned to regular eating habits. He is currently expected to remain under observation at Gemelli Hospital for approximately one week to ensure a stable recovery and proper wound healing. Medical staff are scheduled to perform additional diagnostic tests to determine if the adenocarcinoma has spread beyond the initial site. For now, the Vatican remains focused on the Pope's immediate recuperation and has expressed satisfaction with his progress. The successful start to his recovery provides some reassurance to the public as the pontiff prepares for an eventual return to his official duties.

Two health workers in full white personal protective equipment (PPE) with orange markings stand behind a safety fence at a medical facility. Beside them, a large public health poster in French titled 'STOP EBOLA' outlines safety protocols and 'Bonnes pratiques' (good practices) for community protection.
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Bunia health workers combat Ebola misinformation through home visits

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, community health teams have launched an intensive public awareness campaign in Bunia to contain the country's deadliest Ebola outbreak. Currently designated as a public health emergency, the crisis has prompted health workers to conduct door-to-door visits to educate residents on the risks of the virus and the importance of seeking professional medical care. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to bridge the gap between medical institutions and local communities during a period of heightened health insecurity. Led by Emmanuel Birunga in the Rwampara area, these health teams are specifically targeting the misinformation that hindered early response efforts. Initially, many residents dismissed Ebola symptoms, attributing them to common illnesses like malaria or even intentional poisoning. Birunga and his colleagues are working to rebuild trust in clinical settings, emphasizing that early detection and isolation are critical to survival. As a result of these persistent home visits, local understanding of the disease's severity has improved, and more families are beginning to utilize health centers. However, the focus on Ebola has created a significant strain on other essential health services, particularly in maternal and child health. There has been a sharp decline in antenatal visits and supervised childbirths as expectant mothers avoid clinics for fear of infection. This trend has contributed to a worrying rise in maternal mortality rates. To address the broader impact on families, UNICEF has established specialized nurseries for children separated from their parents due to the outbreak, while survivors like Sarah have joined the effort to provide emotional and logistical support to those currently affected. Despite the progress made in community outreach, the situation in Bunia and surrounding regions remains critical. Ongoing armed conflict and long-standing infrastructure challenges continue to complicate the delivery of medical supplies and the mobility of health workers. Public health experts warn that while community engagement is a vital step forward, sustained international support and improved regional stability are necessary to fully bring the outbreak under control and restore normal health services for the population.

Ghana Prisons Service launches medicine bank for three northern regions
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Ghana Prisons Service launches medicine bank for three northern regions

The Ghana Prisons Service has officially launched a new Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank in Tamale, marking a significant step toward improving healthcare delivery for both inmates and officers within the northern belt of the country. This initiative is specifically designed to serve correctional facilities across the Northern, North East, and Savannah regions, addressing long-standing gaps in the availability of essential medical supplies and specialized equipment. The primary objective of the bank is to mobilize a steady stream of essential medicines and medical technology to manage complex health conditions that frequently arise within the prison system. During the launch ceremony in Tamale, officials from the Ghana Prisons Service were joined by representatives from the Ghana Police Service and various local stakeholders. The project highlights a growing recognition that health challenges within prison walls cannot be isolated from the broader healthcare landscape, as the well-being of the incarcerated population directly impacts public health outcomes. To ensure the sustainability of the medicine bank, the Ghana Prisons Service is actively advocating for partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and corporate organizations. Stakeholders at the event emphasized that private-sector contributions will be vital for maintaining a robust inventory of life-saving drugs and equipment. Furthermore, there is a strong commitment to establishing transparent management systems to oversee the distribution of donated resources, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations within the regional prison system receive the care they require.