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.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Announces Recruitment of 16,000 Professionals to Expand Free Primary Healthcare
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Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Announces Recruitment of 16,000 Professionals to Expand Free Primary Healthcare

In a significant move toward achieving Universal Health Coverage, the Ghanaian government has announced the recruitment of 16,000 health professionals to support the Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) program. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh confirmed that 8,000 personnel have already been recruited and posted to various facilities across the country, with plans to hire an additional 8,000 in the coming phases. This workforce expansion is a cornerstone of the Mahama administration's strategy to bridge the healthcare gap between urban and rural populations by ensuring that qualified medical staff are available at the community level. To complement this increase in personnel, the Ministry of Health has distributed 24,000 pieces of essential medical equipment to primary healthcare facilities, including CHPS compounds, health centers, and polyclinics. Minister Akandoh detailed that this includes 5,000 specialized healthcare bags designed for community outreach, with further plans to provide motorbikes and tricycles to enhance the mobility of health workers. These resources are intended to transform healthcare delivery from a reactive model to a proactive one, emphasizing the prevention and early detection of illnesses—particularly non-communicable diseases—through routine community screenings. The initiative has already shown promising results in reaching underserved areas, with a notable increase in health professionals accepting postings to deprived regions such as the Upper West. Currently, approximately 13,500 nurses have been successfully integrated into the national payroll. Minister Akandoh emphasized that President John Mahama is actively working to enhance the conditions of service for health workers, offering specific incentives for those who serve in remote and challenging environments. This focus on staff welfare is seen as vital for the long-term sustainability of the FPHC program and the retention of talent within the public health sector. Since its implementation, the FPHC program has conducted assessments for over 54,000 households, leading to thousands of critical health interventions and a more localized approach to medical care. By bringing services directly to the doorsteps of citizens, the government aims to reduce the burden on major referral hospitals and ensure that no Ghanaian is denied basic medical attention due to financial or geographical barriers. Moving forward, the Ministry intends to scale these efforts, prioritizing continuous equipment supply and the integration of the remaining recruited professionals into the national health network.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Launches Five-Year PRIMER Initiative to Tackle Stagnating Maternal Mortality Rates
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Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Launches Five-Year PRIMER Initiative to Tackle Stagnating Maternal Mortality Rates

The government of Ghana, under the administration of President John Mahama, has officially launched the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response (PRIMER) to address critical gaps in the country's healthcare system. Inaugurated by Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang on September 14, 2026, the five-year multisectoral initiative aims to drastically reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths. The launch comes as Ghana’s maternal mortality rate has plateaued at 234 deaths per 100,000 live births, necessitating urgent intervention to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. PRIMER is structured around five strategic pillars designed to improve emergency referrals, transport, staffing, and the availability of essential medicines and equipment. Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, highlighted the geographical urgency of the project, revealing that 70% of maternal deaths are concentrated in 11 regions, with the Ashanti Region recording the highest number of fatalities. The initiative targets a 20% annual reduction in mortality over the next three years by prioritizing these high-risk areas and enhancing the identification of high-risk pregnancies through robust data management and community engagement. During the launch, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that PRIMER will not operate in isolation but will be integrated into existing healthcare systems to ensure long-term sustainability. Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), echoed this call for systemic change, asserting that preventable maternal deaths must be treated as failures requiring strict accountability. He noted President Mahama’s specific concerns regarding the stagnation of progress in this sector, stressing that the initiative’s success depends on meticulous coordination between ministries, local authorities, and civil society. While the initiative sets a high standard for clinical care, international partners have pointed to personnel distribution as a significant challenge. Dr. Sennen Hounton of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) warned that Ghana’s maternal health goals are at risk unless the government implements better incentive packages and bonding arrangements to retain health professionals in remote areas. Addressing the reluctance of staff to serve in underserved regions is seen as vital for ensuring that the initiative’s benefits reach all citizens. Ultimately, as the Vice President stated, the success of PRIMER will be measured by its ability to ensure every pregnant woman returns home safely with her child.

University of Energy and Natural Resources Validates Fermented Human Urine as Eco-Friendly Herbicide Alternative
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University of Energy and Natural Resources Validates Fermented Human Urine as Eco-Friendly Herbicide Alternative

Research conducted by the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has revealed a promising and sustainable alternative to synthetic chemical herbicides, which often pose risks to environmental and public health. In a study led by the university’s Dormaa Campus, scientists have confirmed that fermented human urine can serve as an effective natural herbicide, specifically for weed control in carrot cultivation. This discovery comes at a critical time as concerns regarding the long-term impact of synthetic agricultural chemicals on soil health and food safety continue to grow within Ghana’s agricultural sector. The findings, which were presented at a workshop organized by the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organizational Development (CIKOD) with support from ActionAid Ghana, demonstrate that the application of fermented urine not only manages weed growth but also enhances crop productivity. Specifically, the research noted improved root yields in carrots without causing detrimental changes to the physical or chemical properties of the soil. This dual benefit of acting as both a weed suppressant and a soil-safe nutrient source positions it as a viable tool for smallholder farmers seeking organic or low-input farming methods. However, the researchers have issued specific guidelines for the safe and effective use of this biological resource. To ensure the solution works correctly, the human urine must undergo a specific fermentation process before it is applied to crops. The study also cautions farmers against using the urine in a highly concentrated form, as over-application could potentially harm the crops or the soil balance. By adhering to these fermentation and dilution protocols, farmers can harness a readily available resource to reduce their reliance on expensive and potentially toxic imported herbicides, thereby promoting better environmental health and personal safety. Moving forward, the UENR research team and its partners are advocating for broader collaboration to facilitate practical field demonstrations across the country. These demonstrations are viewed as essential for encouraging widespread adoption among Ghanaian farmers and overcoming potential social stigmas associated with the use of human waste in agriculture. As the nation faces increasing pressure to adopt climate-smart and health-conscious practices, the integration of such indigenous-based scientific solutions could play a pivotal role in ensuring both food security and ecological preservation.

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Tano South Municipal Assembly Empowers 74 Persons with Disabilities in Bechem with Vital Livelihood Support

In an effort to foster financial independence and reduce street begging within the Ahafo Region, the Tano South Municipal Assembly has distributed vital livelihood support items to 74 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). During a ceremony held in Bechem, the assembly provided a variety of tools and resources designed to help beneficiaries establish sustainable businesses or pursue educational goals. This initiative marks a significant step in the local government's strategy to integrate PWDs into the socio-economic development of the municipality. The support package was diverse, tailored to the specific vocational needs and academic pursuits of the recipients. Items distributed included refrigerators for cold-store businesses, industrial sewing machines for fashion designers, and laptops for students and professionals. In addition to physical equipment, the assembly also provided scholarships to help students with disabilities cover academic costs. Speaking at the event, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Kwame Frimpong, highlighted that these resources were not merely gifts but strategic investments in the dignity and future of the beneficiaries. MCE Frimpong used the occasion to issue a stern warning against the sale of the provided items, a practice that has occasionally undermined similar social intervention programs in the past. He urged the public to patronize the businesses run by PWDs, noting that economic inclusion is a shared community responsibility. One of the beneficiaries, Victor Atuahene, who received educational support, expressed deep gratitude for the gesture, stating that the assistance would be instrumental in his academic advancement and his long-term goal of becoming a productive member of society. Beyond individual empowerment, the Tano South Municipal Assembly’s initiative reflects a broader national commitment to upholding the rights of PWDs as enshrined in the Persons with Disability Act. By providing these tools, the local government aims to transition individuals from dependency on street begging to active participation in the local economy. Moving forward, the assembly intends to monitor the progress of the beneficiaries to ensure the resources are being used effectively to improve their quality of life and that of their families.

Akua Asantewaa Agyei, Deputy Chief Nursing Officer and Nursing Manager for the Newborn Unit and Kids Ward, receiving the items form Sylvia Ammoro, Chairperson of the Kascity District Society
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ICAG Kascity Society Boosts Newborn Care at Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital with GH"31,626 Donation

The Kascity District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) has stepped forward to bolster healthcare delivery at the Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital with a significant donation of medical equipment and essential supplies valued at GH"31,626. This contribution is part of the society's annual corporate social responsibility initiative, specifically designed to provide relief and improve the quality of care for newborns and children within the Kasoa community. The official handover ceremony highlighted the professional body's dedication to supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening local health infrastructure. The donation package was meticulously curated based on prior consultations between the ICAG Kascity Society and hospital management to ensure that the most urgent needs were addressed. Key items included a range of essential medical equipment and supplies, alongside a 17kg heavy-duty washing machine to support hospital sanitation and a 60-litre specialized refrigerator for the secure storage of life-saving vaccines. These items are expected to directly impact the hospital's operational efficiency, particularly in the neonatal and pediatric units where hygiene and temperature-sensitive medications are critical. During the presentation, the Chairperson of the Kascity District Society, Sylvia Ammoro, expressed profound gratitude to the members of the institute for their financial contributions and collective effort. She emphasized that investing in the health of newborns is a direct investment in the nation's future, noting that the society remains committed to elevating healthcare standards through such targeted interventions. Other representatives from ICAG reinforced this sentiment, urging other professional groups and corporate entities to look beyond their core business mandates and actively contribute to the development of their host societies. By bridging the resource gap at the Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital, the ICAG Kascity Society has set a precedent for how professional associations can play a pivotal role in national development. As the hospital continues to serve a rapidly growing population in the Kasoa area, such partnerships are vital for maintaining high standards of maternal and child health services. The initiative not only provides immediate relief but also fosters a culture of community support and social accountability among Ghana's professional elite.

Emmanuel Nana Osei educating parents on how to take good care of their children eyes.
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Visio International and Department of Children Screen 300 Children for Eye Health in Larteh and Tutu

Approximately 300 children in the Larteh and Tutu communities within the Akuapem North Municipality have received comprehensive eye screenings to address a growing prevalence of ocular diseases among the youth. This health intervention is the result of a strategic collaboration between the non-governmental organisation Visio International and the Department of Children. The initiative specifically targets families in these areas, who are primarily engaged in farming and trading, and whose children have faced significant hurdles in their learning and physical development due to undetected or untreated vision impairments. The programme goes beyond basic diagnosis, focusing on providing a sustainable solution for families who might otherwise struggle to afford specialist medical care. Visio International has pledged that all children identified as needing medical interventions will receive necessary treatments and follow-up care at no cost to their parents. Recognising the economic challenges within these communities, the initiative also includes a financial support component intended to help parents meet other essential needs, ensuring that the burden of healthcare does not compromise the household’s overall stability. During the exercise, local eye specialists engaged with the community to provide education on preventive eye care and the importance of early detection. Experts identified several common eye conditions among the screened group and urged parents to avoid traditional remedies that could worsen ocular health. By integrating clinical screening with community education, the partners aim to ensure that children in the Akuapem North Municipality can pursue their education without the hindrance of preventable blindness or visual impairment, ultimately fostering better long-term developmental outcomes.

The water system at Bobin
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Ghana Launches Major Health Initiatives to Combat Air Pollution and Improve Rural Water Access

Ghana is taking significant strides toward improving public health outcomes through two major environmental initiatives: a large-scale water purification project in the Ashanti Region and a nationwide air quality awareness campaign. These efforts come at a critical time when environmental factors increasingly impact the wellbeing of citizens across the country. While the water project focuses on closing the infrastructure gap between urban and rural areas, the air pollution campaign seeks to mitigate the rising respiratory health risks caused by poor air quality in metropolitan centers like Accra. In the Ashanti Region, more than 800,000 residents across 269 rural communities are set to benefit from a new climate-smart water purification project. Developed through a strategic partnership between the governments of Ghana and Korea, this initiative addresses the persistent challenge of inadequate safe drinking water in rural settings. The project involves the installation of solar-powered purification systems designed to treat local water sources efficiently. Community leaders and residents have expressed profound gratitude for the initiative, noting that it will significantly improve the quality of life and reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases in areas where access to clean water has historically lagged behind urban centers. Simultaneously, the Healthy Lungs, Healthy Life campaign has been launched by Infinity 970 and Breathe Cities to tackle the growing threat of air pollution. According to health experts like Dr. Elvis Kyere Gyeabour, air pollution levels in Ghana are currently five times higher than World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. This campaign aims to reach 10 million people through targeted television and radio broadcasts, focusing specifically on drivers and schools. Dr. Caryn Agyeman Prempeh highlighted the dangers of common practices such as waste burning, which pose severe risks to vulnerable populations. The initiative calls for multi-stakeholder collaboration to find sustainable solutions to the countrys air quality crisis. Both initiatives underscore a growing national focus on environmental health as a pillar of public safety. Stakeholders across both projects emphasize that infrastructure and education must go hand-in-hand; for the water project, regular monitoring and community protection of resources are vital, while the air campaign relies on changing public behavior. As these projects move forward, they represent a dual-track approach to securing a healthier future for Ghanaians by addressing the fundamental elements of clean water and breathable air.

Dr. John Nana Nkrumah Cautions Men Against Relying on Frequent Ejaculation for Prostate Cancer Prevention
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Dr. John Nana Nkrumah Cautions Men Against Relying on Frequent Ejaculation for Prostate Cancer Prevention

Dr. John Nana Nkrumah, a prominent urologist at the GPHA Clinic and the International Maritime Hospital, has issued a caution to men regarding the misconception that frequent sexual activity or ejaculation serves as a definitive prevention method for prostate cancer. Addressing common health myths, Dr. Nkrumah clarified that while various studies have explored the link between ejaculation frequency and prostate health, there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence to recommend a specific rate of activity for cancer prevention. He urged the public to approach such claims with caution and prioritize medically verified health strategies over unproven lifestyle theories. Rather than relying on speculative preventative measures, Dr. Nkrumah emphasized that men should focus on established medical protocols, including regular screenings and a comprehensive understanding of individual risk factors. He noted that the medical community still views early detection through clinical examinations as the gold standard for managing the disease. By identifying prostate cancer in its early stages, patients have access to a wider range of effective treatment options that can significantly improve long-term outcomes and quality of life. This proactive approach remains the most effective tool in reducing the mortality rate associated with the condition. The urologist also highlighted the significant challenges associated with treating advanced prostate cancer, particularly the impact on sexual health. Many treatments for late-stage diagnoses involve the reduction of testosterone levels, which can lead to a decrease in sexual potency and other physical changes. This potential side effect underscores the critical importance of early intervention to avoid more invasive therapies. Dr. Nkrumah concluded by encouraging men to engage in open dialogue with healthcare providers and to adhere to recommended screening schedules to ensure that any abnormalities are addressed before the disease progresses to a more severe state.

Dr Fred Adomako-Boateng, Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services
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Ashanti Regional Health Directorate and UNICEF Launch Virtual Labour Room to Combat Maternal Mortality

The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, in a strategic partnership with UNICEF, is set to introduce an innovative "virtual labour room" concept to address the persistently high maternal mortality rates in the region. This initiative comes as a direct response to alarming statistics showing maternal death rates of 195.6 per 100,000 live births in 2024 and 196.7 per 100,000 in 2025. By leveraging technology to bridge the gap between local health centers and specialized medical hubs, the program aims to ensure that no mother loses her life due to a lack of immediate expert intervention during childbirth. The core of the virtual labour room involves establishing electronic connections that allow specialists at tertiary or higher-level health facilities to provide real-time remote support to health workers in smaller communities. In many instances, maternal deaths in the region are attributed to complications that could have been effectively managed if specialist guidance were available at the point of care. This system will enable frontline midwives and doctors in remote areas to consult with senior obstetricians and specialists during complex deliveries, ensuring timely and life-saving decision-making through high-speed communication tools. Beyond the technological infrastructure, the regional health authorities are focusing on human resource development through a concurrent six-month clinical mentorship program. This initiative is designed to enhance the skills and confidence of junior medical officers, who are often the first line of response in maternal emergencies. The Deputy Minister of Health has emphasized that tackling the maternal mortality crisis requires such collaborative and multifaceted solutions, combining technical innovation with rigorous professional training to create a robust safety net for pregnant women. Scheduled to be fully operational by August, the virtual labour room signifies a major shift in the region's approach to maternal healthcare delivery. As the Ashanti Region works toward meeting national and global health targets, this pilot project—supported by UNICEF—is expected to serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. By integrating remote expertise into the delivery room, the Ghana Health Service hopes to significantly lower the maternal mortality ratio and provide safer childbirth experiences for women across the region.

Media Personality Serwaa Amihere Advocates for Women's Hygiene and Mental Health Awareness
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Media Personality Serwaa Amihere Advocates for Women's Hygiene and Mental Health Awareness

On September 13, 2026, prominent media personality and lawyer Serwaa Amihere reached out to women across Ghana via social media to underscore the vital connection between personal hygiene, physical appearance, and mental health. In a widely shared video, she advocated for a holistic approach to self-care, urging women to prioritize their well-being as a fundamental aspect of their daily lives. Her message emphasizes that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for maintaining psychological balance. Amihere’s advice centered on the idea that maintaining a presentable and well-kept appearance is intrinsically linked to one’s mental state and self-esteem. She specifically addressed the common perception that looking good requires significant wealth, arguing instead that personal grooming and cleanliness should be maintained regardless of financial constraints. By focusing on hygiene and appearance, she suggested that women can foster a sense of dignity and resilience that transcends their economic circumstances. As a high-profile figure in both the legal and media landscapes, Amihere’s advocacy highlights a growing conversation in Ghana regarding the intersection of lifestyle and mental health. Her advice serves as a reminder that self-investment begins with basic personal care, which can often be a crucial factor in managing daily stress. By encouraging women to remain presentable despite economic challenges, she aims to empower her audience to take control of their self-image, reinforcing the idea that self-worth is independent of financial status.

Mawuleme Movement Joins Over 1,000 Participants for Asogli Te Za Health Walk and Cleanup in Ho
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Mawuleme Movement Joins Over 1,000 Participants for Asogli Te Za Health Walk and Cleanup in Ho

Over 1,000 participants gathered in the Volta Regional capital of Ho for the 2026 Asogli Te Za Health Walk, a vibrant event designed to champion fitness and wellness within the community. Organized as a central pillar of the Asogli Te Za celebrations, the walk saw a diverse group of residents and visitors take to the streets to emphasize the critical role of physical activity in maintaining a healthy society. The event underscored the local commitment to fostering a culture of wellness that extends beyond the festival period, positioning physical health as the foundation for a thriving population. Beyond the immediate physical benefits of the exercise, the initiative served as a platform for integrated community development. Participants navigated the route through Ho, demonstrating a significant public interest in adopting healthier lifestyles. Organizers and community leaders highlighted that such collective activities are essential for promoting long-term health benefits and building social cohesion. The energy of the 1,000-strong crowd reflected a shared understanding that personal health is inextricably linked to the broader well-being of the community. A distinctive feature of this year’s walk was the active involvement of the Mawuleme Movement, which focused on environmental sanitation. Members of the movement accompanied the walkers, diligently collecting litter along the entire route to ensure that the exercise did not leave a negative footprint on the city's streets. By integrating a clean-up exercise with the health walk, the group illustrated the profound connection between personal fitness and environmental responsibility. This synergy emphasized the message that a healthy individual requires a clean and safe environment in order to truly flourish. The day’s activities culminated at Jubilee Park, which served as the primary venue for the event. In a final show of dedication to public hygiene, the Mawuleme Movement and volunteers conducted a thorough cleaning of the park immediately following the conclusion of the walk. This proactive approach to sanitation highlighted the organizers' commitment to maintaining pristine public spaces while encouraging community participation in health initiatives. As the Asogli Te Za celebrations continue, the success of the health walk sets a positive precedent for future community-led programs that combine health advocacy with environmental stewardship.

Health workers who accept postings to deprived areas to get 20 per cent basic salary as incentive - Mahama
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President Mahama Announces 20% Salary Incentive for Health Workers and Major Equipment Rollout for Primary Healthcare

President John Mahama has activated a major incentive package and resource distribution plan aimed at revolutionizing healthcare access across Ghana. Central to this initiative is a 20% salary bonus for health professionals who accept postings to underserved and deprived regions. This move is part of the broader Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) program, which the government is rapidly scaling to ensure that essential medical services are available to all citizens regardless of their economic status or geographic location. The president emphasized that the strategy is not only about financial rewards but also about improving the living standards of personnel in rural areas. The Deprived Area Incentive package is designed to address the chronic shortage of medical personnel in rural areas by committing to infrastructure upgrades alongside the salary boost. President Mahama highlighted that the government is prioritizing the improvement of living conditions for these health workers, including better access to roads, water, and electricity. By making these regions more habitable and professionally rewarding, the administration aims to reach its goal of expanding the FPHC program to 150 districts by the end of the year, with 135 districts already successfully integrated into the system. Supporting this human resource strategy, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced the distribution of over 24,000 pieces of basic medical equipment. This includes healthcare bags and specialized vehicles designed to facilitate community-based health services and direct home outreach. This logistical boost is critical for the program’s focus on preventive care and early detection of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. By equipping Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and local health centers, the government ensures that screenings and treatments for common ailments such as malaria and respiratory infections remain free and accessible at the point of care. The impact of this policy is already being felt at the grassroots level, as evidenced by the recent commissioning of a Free Health Kiosk at the Sogakope Market in the Volta Region. Local leaders, including District Chief Executive Victoria Dzeklo and Member of Parliament Maxwell Kwame Lukutor, noted that such facilities are vital for traders and residents who often neglect early symptoms due to cost or distance. Nationally, the rollout has seen significant progress, with health officials having already assessed more than 54,000 households. This shift toward a community-centric model reduces the economic burden of illness on families while strengthening the national health insurance framework and overall public wellbeing.