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.

Ghana Health Service Advocates for Integrated Systems and Patient Navigation to Enhance NCD Care
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Ghana Health Service Advocates for Integrated Systems and Patient Navigation to Enhance NCD Care

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a call for the urgent strengthening of health systems and primary healthcare structures to ensure safe, continuous care for individuals living with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Speaking at the 2026 National Patient Safety Day event in Accra, Dr. Caroline Amissah Reindorf, the Deputy Director-General of GHS, emphasized that managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer requires a more robust approach than current systems provide. The event, which adopted the color orange to symbolize its awareness campaign, centered on the theme of improving patient safety and outcomes through systemic reform. Central to the GHS proposal is the implementation of effective 'patient navigation,' a process designed to help patients move seamlessly through the healthcare system. Dr. Amissah Reindorf highlighted that many patients currently face significant hurdles, including fragmented referral systems that result in lost medical histories and inconsistent follow-up care. By improving navigation and strengthening the continuum of care—encompassing regular check-ups, reliable medication management, and efficient referrals—the GHS aims to leverage the government’s free primary healthcare initiative to provide more equitable and effective service delivery. Supporting this call for reform, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative, Dr. Fiona Braka, underscored the growing global and national burden of NCDs. She noted that a significant portion of healthcare-related complications are preventable, urging for a shared responsibility among health providers, patients, and policymakers. The WHO maintains that patient safety must be the cornerstone of NCD management to reduce the high incidence of harm that occurs during healthcare delivery. The collaboration between the GHS and international partners reflects a unified commitment to transforming Ghana's health infrastructure into one that is more responsive to the complexities of chronic disease management.

Dr. Vanessa Apea Warns Against Dismissing Abdominal Fat as a Critical Indicator of Health Risks
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Dr. Vanessa Apea Warns Against Dismissing Abdominal Fat as a Critical Indicator of Health Risks

Dr. Vanessa Apea, the CEO of The Accra London Health, has issued a public health warning regarding the dangers of excessive abdominal fat, urging Ghanaians to view it as a medical red flag rather than a trivial concern. Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, Dr. Apea emphasized that belly fat should not be a source of personal shame nor misinterpreted as a sign of wealth or social status. Instead, she characterized it as a clear signal for potential underlying health issues that require immediate attention and proactive medical awareness. A central part of Dr. Apea’s warning focused on the distinction between subcutaneous fat, which sits just under the skin, and visceral fat, which is stored deep within the abdominal cavity and surrounds vital internal organs. According to the health expert, visceral fat is particularly dangerous because it is metabolically active and directly linked to systemic inflammation. This type of fat significantly increases the risk of developing chronic conditions, including impaired blood sugar control and elevated blood pressure, which can lead to more severe cardiovascular complications such as hypertension. Dr. Apea also challenged the traditional reliance on Body Mass Index (BMI) as the sole metric for assessing a person's health status. She argued that while BMI provides a general overview, it is often insufficient for identifying the specific risks associated with abdominal weight gain. To provide a more accurate assessment, she advocated for the regular measurement of waist circumference alongside BMI. Monitoring changes in waist size can offer earlier indications of health deterioration and help individuals take steps to mitigate risks before chronic diseases manifest. Beyond physical measurements, the expert highlighted the critical role of lifestyle choices and genetic predispositions in managing abdominal health. Factors such as the frequent consumption of processed foods, high alcohol intake, smoking, and physical inactivity were identified as primary contributors to the accumulation of dangerous belly fat. Dr. Apea concluded by encouraging the public to remain vigilant about their health trends and to consider their family medical history when evaluating their risk for hypertension, stressing that early detection and lifestyle modification are essential for long-term well-being.

Deputy Health Minister Ayensu-Danquah Targets Doctor Shortages and Maternal Mortality in Bono Region
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Deputy Health Minister Ayensu-Danquah Targets Doctor Shortages and Maternal Mortality in Bono Region

The Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has sounded an alarm over critical staffing shortages in the Bono Region, revealing that only seven out of approximately 20 doctors recently posted to the area have reported for duty. During an official visit to the region on September 22, 2026, the Deputy Minister highlighted this 65 percent vacancy rate as a significant threat to healthcare delivery. The visit, which included a courtesy call on the Bono Regional Minister, aimed to address the dual challenges of medical personnel retention and the persistently high rates of maternal mortality in the region. Prof. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah identified inadequate accommodation and a lack of basic resources as the primary barriers preventing healthcare professionals from accepting postings to the Bono Region. She emphasized that creating a conducive working environment is essential for retaining talent and ensuring that the government's investment in medical training translates into improved health outcomes for rural populations. To combat these issues, the Deputy Minister called for urgent financial and resource mobilization, stressing that the Ministry of Health is actively working to identify and mitigate the factors that lead to preventable deaths among medical staff and patients alike. A central theme of the Deputy Minister’s engagement was the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to reduce maternal mortality. Prof. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah briefed regional authorities on ongoing Ministry of Health initiatives designed to curb preventable maternal deaths, asserting that the battle against mortality cannot be won by the health sector in isolation. She urged all stakeholders, including local government and community leaders, to support medical staff and participate in a unified effort to enhance the wellbeing of women and the broader community. In response, the Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboah, pledged his full support for the Ministry's initiatives. He expressed optimism that through strengthened collaboration, the region could overcome its current healthcare hurdles. Akwaboah committed to assisting with resource challenges, particularly regarding staff housing, to ensure that the region becomes a more attractive destination for healthcare professionals. This partnership between the health ministry and regional government marks a critical step toward stabilizing the Bono Region's health system and providing consistent, high-quality care to its residents.

A photograph of a newly constructed, bright green building identified as the new Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound in Nyankontre. The modern facility features a dark green roof, several windows, and an accessible ramp at the entrance, replacing an older makeshift clinic.
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Bono East Health Boost: New Facilities in Nyankontre and Mempaasem to Support President Mahama’s Healthcare Agenda

Residents of the Sene East and Sene West Districts in the Bono East Region are set to see a significant transformation in local healthcare delivery as two new ultramodern facilities near completion. The Bono East Regional Minister, Francis Owusu Antwi, recently inspected the projects in Nyankontre and Mempaasem, confirming that the new infrastructure is designed to provide quality, accessible care close to home. These developments are a direct implementation of President John Mahama’s free primary healthcare policy, which seeks to eliminate financial and geographic barriers to essential health services across rural Ghana. In the farming community of Nyankontre, located in the Sene East District, a new Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound is replacing a dilapidated structure and a Kindergarten (KG) block that had been serving as a makeshift clinic. Member of Parliament Dominic Napare and District Chief Executive Ofonyi Frederick K. Nkrumah highlighted the urgency of the project, noting that the community has long struggled with waterborne diseases and snake bites. The new facility includes dedicated departments, modern sanitation, and staff accommodation, ensuring that patients no longer have to receive treatment outdoors. Crucially, the completion of this project will allow the old KG block to revert to its original educational purpose, improving both health and schooling infrastructure in the district. Simultaneously, in Mempaasem, a suburb of Kwame Danso in the Sene West District, a new health center is ready for commissioning to alleviate the heavy pressure on the Sene West District Hospital. Although originally designed as a CHPS compound, the facility has been upgraded to function as a full health center featuring delivery rooms, consultation areas, and modern medical equipment. District Chief Executive Khaari Fuseini confirmed that all necessary supplies have been delivered and health personnel have been allocated for immediate operations. To further extend this reach, the government has also announced the upcoming construction of a health kiosk in nearby Adjokrom under the same healthcare initiative. Regional Minister Francis Owusu Antwi expressed high satisfaction with the speed and quality of construction at both sites, urging local leaders and Members of Parliament to continue collaborating for community development. By moving healthcare services from unsafe, makeshift structures into modern, well-equipped centers, the Bono East Region is taking a decisive step toward achieving universal health coverage. The imminent commissioning of these facilities marks a milestone in the current administration’s efforts to decentralize care and improve health outcomes for Ghana's farming communities.

President Mahama to Commence Construction of Three 160-Bed Regional Referral Hospitals in Oti, Savannah, and Western North
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President Mahama to Commence Construction of Three 160-Bed Regional Referral Hospitals in Oti, Savannah, and Western North

President John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to officially break ground for the construction of three new 160-bed Regional Referral Hospitals in the Oti, Savannah, and Western North Regions. The upcoming sod-cutting ceremonies mark a significant step in the government's strategic plan to decentralize specialized medical care and ensure that residents in these regions have access to high-quality healthcare infrastructure. By establishing these facilities, the administration aims to reduce the need for patients to travel long distances to other regional capitals for critical medical interventions. The announcement was made on September 22, 2026, by the Minister of State, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who highlighted the initiative as a cornerstone of the government's ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare delivery. According to official communications, the designs for the Oti Regional Referral Hospital have already been finalized and revealed, showcasing a modern architectural framework tailored to handle complex medical cases. These three facilities are specifically designed to function as primary referral points, providing specialized services and increased bed capacity for local residents. The construction of these hospitals is part of a broader government strategy to address infrastructure gaps in the Oti, Savannah, and Western North Regions, which were created to bring governance and development closer to the people. By focusing on these areas, the Mahama administration intends to bolster the national healthcare system's resilience and improve the management of emergencies and chronic conditions. The project is expected to create jobs during the construction phase and provide permanent employment for hundreds of healthcare professionals upon completion. As the sod-cutting ceremonies are expected to take place in the coming weeks, the Ministry of Health is finalizing administrative preparations for the commencement of work. Government officials emphasize that these projects reflect President Mahama’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage and modernizing Ghana’s healthcare landscape. The completion of these referral hospitals is anticipated to provide long-term socio-economic benefits by improving the health security and overall quality of life for residents across the affected regions.

Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Marks 70th Anniversary with Sports and Infrastructure Vision
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Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Marks 70th Anniversary with Sports and Infrastructure Vision

The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has officially commenced celebrations to mark its 70th anniversary, a significant milestone reflecting seven decades of healthcare excellence and service to the people of Ghana. To kick off the festivities, the hospital organized a series of inter-directorate fun games at the Paa Joe Stadium at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). These games were designed to foster a sense of unity and promote healthy lifestyles among the facility's approximately 6,000 staff members, ensuring that those who provide care also take time to prioritize their own physical and mental well-being. During the event, Dr. Yaw Opare Larbi, the Deputy Medical Director of KATH, emphasized that the anniversary is more than just a celebration of longevity; it is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds between different departments. By bringing together diverse teams through sports, the hospital aims to enhance the collaborative spirit necessary for high-quality clinical care. Dr. Larbi noted that building these internal relationships is crucial for a large-scale institution where coordination between directorates can directly impact patient outcomes. KATH’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the hospital's historical journey and its pivotal role in the nation’s medical landscape. He reaffirmed the administration's commitment to future growth, specifically pointing to upcoming infrastructure projects designed to modernize the hospital’s facilities. These developments are expected to significantly improve service delivery and patient experiences, positioning KATH to meet the healthcare challenges of the next decade. The 70th-anniversary calendar includes a wide array of activities beyond the sports arena. Planned events include community outreach programs and comprehensive health screenings intended to give back to the public. Additionally, a public lecture on the history of KATH will be held to document and share the institution's evolution with the wider community. These initiatives underscore the hospital's dual mission of internal excellence and external service as it commemorates 70 years of operation.

Health Ministry Launches National Strategic Plan (2026-2030) to Combat Heavy Metal Contamination in Food
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Health Ministry Launches National Strategic Plan (2026-2030) to Combat Heavy Metal Contamination in Food

The Government of Ghana has officially launched the National Strategic Plan for Heavy Metals Reduction in Food (2026–2030), a comprehensive initiative designed to safeguard public health and enhance the safety of the nation's food supply. Unveiled by the Ministry of Health, the plan establishes a robust framework to systematically address the presence of toxic substances in the food chain. Deputy Minister of Health, Professor Grace Ayensu-Danquah, introduced the strategy as a critical intervention to ensure that food consumed locally and exported internationally meets rigorous safety benchmarks. The plan underscores the government's commitment to prioritizing health as a cornerstone of national development. At the heart of the initiative is the mitigation of risks posed by dangerous heavy metals, specifically lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic. These contaminants are known to cause severe health complications, with Professor Ayensu-Danquah highlighting that children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to their toxic effects. By implementing management protocols across the entire production cycle—from soil and water quality monitoring to processing and distribution—the government aims to significantly reduce exposure levels. This holistic approach is intended to prevent chronic illnesses associated with heavy metal ingestion and improve the overall nutritional security of the population. Beyond immediate health outcomes, the strategic plan is expected to yield substantial economic benefits by strengthening Ghana's position in the global market. By aligning local production with international food safety standards, the initiative will facilitate expanded export opportunities for Ghanaian agricultural products. This is anticipated to increase consumer confidence both at home and abroad, providing a vital boost to the agricultural sector and the national economy. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the success of the plan relies on seamless collaboration between government agencies, researchers, and stakeholders across the food value chain. As the implementation phase approaches, the government remains focused on building a resilient food safety infrastructure that can adapt to emerging environmental challenges. The 2026–2030 framework serves as a roadmap for sustainable health and economic growth, ensuring that the food on every Ghanaian's plate is safe and nutritious. This proactive stance reflects a broader strategy to protect the environment and public health, securing a healthier future for all citizens through the modernization of national food safety protocols.

National Ambulance Service Maintains 300-Case Daily Response Rate Amidst Fleet Maintenance Challenges
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National Ambulance Service Maintains 300-Case Daily Response Rate Amidst Fleet Maintenance Challenges

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing critical emergency medical care across Ghana, reporting that it continues to handle over 300 emergency cases daily. Despite navigating significant logistical hurdles and fleet maintenance issues, the Service maintains operations across all 16 regions on a 24/7 basis. This assertion comes as the NAS seeks to clarify its operational capacity and address public concerns regarding the availability of functioning vehicles in various districts. Central to the current operational landscape are the 307 ambulances procured in January 2020. While these vehicles remain the backbone of the service, the NAS management acknowledged that a portion of the fleet is currently grounded. These service interruptions are primarily attributed to mechanical wear-and-tear, road accidents, or delays in securing necessary repairs. The management’s statement followed an investigative report by GHOne TV, which highlighted several non-functional units. The NAS clarified that while some vehicles are indeed off the road, the majority remain active and are serving the Ghanaian public. To address these maintenance gaps, the NAS is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Health to streamline the procurement of essential spare parts. This partnership aims to expedite the turnaround time for grounded vehicles, ensuring that the specialized fleet is returned to service as quickly as possible. Beyond mechanical upkeep, the Service is also focusing on human resource development, enhancing training programs for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to improve the quality of pre-hospital care provided during transit. Looking forward, the NAS emphasized its dedication to transparency and its role as a vital component of the national health infrastructure. By maintaining the 112 emergency number and striving for operational efficiency, the Service aims to bridge the gap between emergency incidents and hospital treatment. As the government continues to evaluate the needs of the health sector, the NAS remains a focal point for ensuring that emergency medical services are accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location within the 16 regions.

NHIA Deputy CEO Dr. Senanu Dzokoto Highlights Exercise as Key to Delaying Alzheimer’s and Dementia
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NHIA Deputy CEO Dr. Senanu Dzokoto Highlights Exercise as Key to Delaying Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Dr. Senanu Kwasi Dzokoto, a prominent public health specialist and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has underscored the critical role of regular physical activity in maintaining cognitive health and delaying the onset of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Speaking during the "Healthy Living Project" on the Citi Breakfast Show, Dr. Dzokoto emphasized that exercise is not merely a tool for physical fitness but a vital component of long-term brain preservation. His insights highlight a growing medical consensus that lifestyle interventions can significantly impact the progression of age-related cognitive decline. Central to the benefits of physical activity is the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that Dr. Dzokoto describes as essential for the growth and survival of neurons. By stimulating the production of BDNF, regular exercise helps the brain remain resilient, fostering new connections and protecting existing neural pathways from degradation. In addition to these neuroprotective benefits, the Deputy CEO noted that exercise triggers the release of endorphins. These natural chemicals act as mood enhancers, providing immediate support for mental well-being and helping individuals manage the psychological stresses that often accompany aging. For those looking to transition into a more active lifestyle, Dr. Dzokoto recommends prioritizing activities that are personally enjoyable to ensure long-term consistency and motivation. He advised individuals who have been sedentary to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of their physical routines to avoid injury. However, he also provided a necessary caveat: while exercise is a powerful preventive tool, it should complement rather than replace professional medical or mental health care when clinical intervention is required. This holistic approach encourages Ghanaians to take proactive steps in their daily lives to safeguard their mental and neurological health for the future.

Kwabena Kwabena Urges FDA to Investigate Voltic Cool Sachet Water Following Quality Concerns
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Kwabena Kwabena Urges FDA to Investigate Voltic Cool Sachet Water Following Quality Concerns

Highlife musician Kwabena Kwabena has officially called on Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to launch an investigation into the quality of Voltic Cool sachet water. The popular singer raised alarms after discovering a significant abnormality in a sachet he had purchased, prompting concerns regarding the safety and consistency of the product distributed across the country. The musician's request stems from a specific incident where he observed an "unusual color change" in a sachet of water intended for cooking. According to reports, the visual discrepancy was stark enough to warrant public concern, leading Kwabena Kwabena to use his platform to advocate for a formal probe. He specifically urged the regulatory body to identify the root cause of the discoloration and verify whether the current batches of Voltic Cool meet the rigorous health standards required for public consumption. While Voltic is a prominent brand in Ghana's bottled and sachet water market, such public allegations from a high-profile figure can significantly impact consumer confidence. The musician emphasized that his primary goal is to ensure that the FDA enforces strict adherence to national safety and quality protocols. As of now, the FDA has not released a formal statement regarding the specific batch in question, but such reports typically trigger market surveillance and laboratory testing of samples from the affected production line. This incident highlights the critical role of consumer vigilance in maintaining public health standards. As the FDA reviews the situation, the outcome of the investigation will be vital for both the manufacturer and the general public. For now, consumers are encouraged to report any irregularities in packaged food or water products to the authorities to ensure that safety remains the top priority in the Ghanaian marketplace.

Nutritional Experts Highlight High Vitamin C Alternatives to Oranges for Immune Support
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Nutritional Experts Highlight High Vitamin C Alternatives to Oranges for Immune Support

While the orange has long been the global poster child for Vitamin C, health experts are drawing attention to a wider variety of fruits and vegetables that provide equal or even greater amounts of this essential nutrient. Vitamin C is a critical component of a healthy diet, primarily known for its role in supporting the immune system. For many, the orange is the first choice when seeking a nutritional boost, but diversifying one's intake through other natural sources can lead to a more robust and varied nutritional profile. Among the fruit alternatives mentioned in recent health reports, guavas and mangoes stand out as potent sources of the vitamin. Guavas, in particular, are noted for their high concentration of the nutrient, often surpassing the levels found in traditional citrus fruits. Mangoes also provide a significant nutritional contribution, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their daily requirements through varied and flavorful options. These fruits offer a sweet and accessible way to bolster the body's natural defenses using locally available produce. Beyond the fruit basket, several vegetables are also packed with Vitamin C, challenging the common misconception that the nutrient is exclusive to citrus. Peppers, broccoli, and various leafy greens are identified as excellent sources that can be easily integrated into daily meals. Including these vegetables in soups, stews, or salads ensures that the body receives a steady supply of nutrients necessary for maintaining health. The inclusion of these savory options allows for a more flexible approach to meeting dietary goals without relying solely on fruit consumption. The shift toward a more diverse diet is essential for comprehensive immune support and overall wellness. By looking beyond the orange and incorporating a mix of guavas, peppers, and green vegetables, individuals can ensure they are meeting their daily vitamin requirements more effectively. As health remains a top priority for many, understanding the nutritional value of these common foods allows for better-informed dietary choices that contribute to long-term well-being and resilience against common ailments.

Why aren’t African churches building hospitals? — Leila Jewel Djansi
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Leila Djansi Critiques African Church Priorities, Urges Investment in Healthcare Over Luxury Chapels

Ghanaian-American filmmaker Leila Jewel Djansi has sparked a significant public conversation regarding the investment priorities of wealthy African religious institutions. In a poignant social media critique, Djansi questioned why many affluent churches concentrate their financial resources on constructing lavish chapels rather than establishing essential infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and scientific research facilities. Her comments highlight a perceived disconnect between the spiritual message of healing preached within these walls and the practical reality of healthcare-seeking behavior among the continent’s elite. Djansi’s critique specifically addresses the irony of "casting and binding" the spiritual influences of foreign nations while simultaneously relying on those same nations for advanced medical care. She noted that while many religious leaders and wealthy congregants advocate for prayer as a primary solution to illness, they frequently travel to countries like India or Western nations when faced with serious health challenges. Referencing the case of the late TB Joshua, Djansi emphasized that the reliance on foreign medical expertise underscores a failure within local institutions to provide the very care they claim to facilitate through divine intervention. Furthermore, the filmmaker drew a sharp contrast between the modern charismatic movement and established denominations like the Catholic and Adventist churches, which have a long history of building schools and hospitals that serve the general public. She urged contemporary African church founders to pivot their focus toward projects that offer enduring community benefits. According to Djansi, the vast funds collected through tithes and donations should be channeled into training facilities and medical centers that would remain functional and beneficial to the populace long after the individual church founders have passed away. By calling for a shift from "transient projects" to sustainable development, Djansi’s message serves as a broader challenge to religious philanthropy across Africa. Her perspective suggests that for the church to remain a relevant and life-saving force in society, it must supplement its spiritual mandate with tangible, actionable contributions to the continent's healthcare and educational systems. The discussion she has ignited underscores an urgent need for institutional accountability and a reassessment of how religious wealth can best serve the pressing physical needs of the African people.