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.

FDA Orders Immediate Recall of Arcan Bitters Over Illegal Erectile Dysfunction Drug Adulteration
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FDA Orders Immediate Recall of Arcan Bitters Over Illegal Erectile Dysfunction Drug Adulteration

Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has ordered an immediate market recall of Arcan Bitters, a popular alcoholic beverage, after laboratory tests confirmed the product was adulterated with Sildenafil Citrate. The manufacturer, Unni Associates Company Limited, has been given a 14-day ultimatum to remove all batches of the product from the trade. In addition to the mandatory recall, the FDA has summarily shut down the company’s manufacturing facility located in the Ashanti Region to prevent further production and distribution of the contaminated beverage. Sildenafil Citrate is a potent pharmaceutical ingredient primarily prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Its presence in Arcan Bitters—a drink containing 35% alcohol by volume—poses severe health risks to unsuspecting consumers. The FDA emphasized that because the product is registered as an alcoholic beverage, the inclusion of any medicinal drug substance is strictly prohibited. Under the Public Health Act, such adulteration is illegal and represents a significant breach of safety standards for food and drink products intended for public consumption. Medical experts and the FDA warn that consuming Sildenafil Citrate without medical supervision, especially when combined with alcohol, can lead to life-threatening complications. Potential adverse effects include severe drops in blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and other long-term health issues. The authority cautioned that individuals with underlying cardiovascular conditions are particularly vulnerable when consuming undeclared prescription drugs, as these substances can interact dangerously with other medications or existing health conditions. The FDA has instructed all retailers, wholesalers, and distributors to stop the sale of Arcan Bitters immediately and return existing stock to the manufacturer. Members of the general public are strongly advised to avoid purchasing or consuming the product and are encouraged to report any vendors still offering it for sale. The authority further stated that failure by Unni Associates Company Limited to comply with the recall directive within the specified 14-day timeframe may lead to additional legal sanctions and rigorous regulatory penalties to ensure public safety.

Health Authorities Issue Warning on Kerosene Poisoning While Ghanaian Migrant Alleges Organ Theft
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Health Authorities Issue Warning on Kerosene Poisoning While Ghanaian Migrant Alleges Organ Theft

Health authorities and human rights advocates are highlighting critical concerns ranging from dangerous domestic practices to alleged medical malpractice abroad. In a recent public health advisory, experts have warned against the persistent use of traditional remedies for kerosene poisoning, while a distressing report has emerged from Italy involving a Ghanaian national who claims his kidney was removed without consent. Together, these stories underscore the vital importance of professional medical intervention and the protection of patient rights within the global healthcare system. Domestic safety remains a primary concern as medical professionals warn of the recurring dangers associated with kerosene storage in Ghanaian households. Often kept in reused water bottles, kerosene is frequently mistaken for drinking water by children, leading to accidental ingestion and severe toxicity. Experts strongly discourage the common practice of administering palm oil to induce vomiting in these cases. Such home remedies can exacerbate the situation by causing the fuel or oil to be inhaled into the lungs, leading to life-threatening respiratory complications and chemical pneumonia. Immediate professional medical attention is recommended over any traditional first-aid measures. On the international front, a Ghanaian man currently residing in Monza, near Milan, Italy, has come forward with a harrowing allegation of medical abuse. The individual claims that during a hospital treatment in 2016, following his journey from Libya to Italy, medical staff removed one of his kidneys without his knowledge or authorization. This alleged incident has left the man in a precarious state, both physically and socially, as he is currently experiencing homelessness. The case has sparked discussions regarding the vulnerability of migrants in foreign healthcare systems and the critical need for rigorous oversight and legal protection for patients abroad. These disparate but significant health issues highlight a common theme: the necessity of transparency and safety in medical care. Whether it is ensuring that families understand the risks of improper fuel storage and faulty first-aid myths at home, or addressing serious allegations of organ theft internationally, the health and safety of Ghanaian citizens remain a priority. Moving forward, health advocates continue to stress the importance of education on household safety and the need for diplomatic support to investigate claims of medical malpractice against citizens living in the diaspora.

Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin (arrowed), Speaker of Parliament, at the 28th Annual International Conference of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa
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Speaker Alban Bagbin and Nigerian Health Officials Advocate for Legislative and Regulatory Reforms to Strengthen African Healthcare

Leadership across West Africa is advocating for significant shifts in health policy to address systemic gaps and outdated legal frameworks. In Accra, Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has called for enhanced cross-border cooperation among medical councils, while in Nigeria, health authorities are moving to decriminalize suicide attempts to better support mental health. These dual efforts highlight a growing consensus that regional healthcare systems require more than just infrastructure; they need modern, inclusive, and interconnected regulatory environments that prioritize patient welfare and professional accountability. During the 28th Annual International Conference of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA) held in Accra, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the urgent need for health regulatory institutions to share information and verify practitioner credentials. He argued that while a single continental regulator might not be the immediate goal, strengthening collective capabilities is vital for achieving Universal Health Coverage. Bagbin specifically pressed for legislative amendments to improve the performance of regulatory councils and called for increased funding to modernize critical health infrastructure, ensuring that African nations can maintain high standards of care across borders. Simultaneously, Nigeria is addressing the legal barriers to mental health care by reconsidering colonial-era laws that criminalize suicide attempts. Health Minister Mohammed Ali Pate highlighted that such outdated statutes currently deter vulnerable individuals from seeking necessary help, contributing to a crisis where the country records roughly 300,000 suicide attempts annually. The proposed legislative changes aim to reduce suicide rates by 15% by 2030. However, health experts and advocates note that this legal shift must be accompanied by increased access to treatment and broader social interventions to combat the deep-seated stigma surrounding mental health issues in the country. These parallel movements in Ghana and Nigeria reflect a broader African agenda to prioritize human-centric health policies and robust regulatory standards. Whether through the standardization of medical practice across the continent or the decriminalization of mental health struggles, the focus is shifting toward creating responsive systems that protect citizens and support practitioners. As these legislative changes progress, the ultimate success of these reforms will depend on sustained political will, adequate resource allocation, and a commitment to regional knowledge sharing.

Bono East Health Director Alerts Public to Drastic Maternal Healthcare Disparities in Sene East
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Bono East Health Director Alerts Public to Drastic Maternal Healthcare Disparities in Sene East

The Bono East Regional Health Directorate has revealed a deepening crisis in maternal healthcare, with nearly 75 percent of women in the Sene East District giving birth without the assistance of a trained professional. This alarming statistic was disclosed during the 2026 Mid-Year Performance Review, where health officials highlighted a massive disparity in childbirth survival rates across the region. While the regional average for skilled delivery stands at 67.6 percent, the rate in Sene East has plummeted to just 27.85 percent, raising urgent concerns about the safety of mothers and newborns in underserved communities. The regional health director, Dr. Freeman Samani, attributed these life-threatening inequalities primarily to a chronic lack of healthcare infrastructure. Currently, four districts within the Bono East Region—including Sene East and Techiman North—operate without a dedicated district hospital. This absence of specialized facilities often forces expectant mothers to rely on unskilled birth attendants or undertake dangerous journeys to distant facilities, significantly increasing the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality. The disparity underscores a significant gap between urban centers and rural districts in the region's ability to provide life-saving obstetric care. Dr. Samani emphasized that the national goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) remains unattainable as long as such significant regional inequalities persist. He called for an immediate and strategic expansion of quality primary healthcare and the urgent construction of hospitals in the affected districts to ensure equitable access for all residents. Until healthcare infrastructure is modernized and distributed fairly, officials warn that the region will continue to struggle with preventable deaths and the persistent failure to provide basic health security for its most vulnerable populations.

VALCO Reopens Tema Clinic with Vision to Establish 110-Bed Specialist Hospital
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VALCO Reopens Tema Clinic with Vision to Establish 110-Bed Specialist Hospital

The Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO) has officially reopened its clinic in Tema Community 4, marking a significant milestone after the facility remained closed for more than 15 years. This reopening is not merely a restoration of previous services but serves as the first phase of an ambitious roadmap to transform the clinic into a modern, 110-bed specialist hospital. The move signals a renewed focus on corporate social responsibility and institutional health as the company seeks to modernize its operations and support systems. Led by Board Chairman Ambassador Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah, the initiative focuses on addressing the specific medical needs of VALCO's workforce while extending services to the broader Tema community. A critical component of the facility’s mission is the management and prevention of occupational health risks inherently associated with aluminium smelting. By providing specialized care on-site, the company aims to mitigate long-term health complications for its employees, ensuring a healthier and more productive workforce through proactive medical intervention. The proposed expansion into a 110-bed specialist hospital is intended to offer comprehensive healthcare services that go beyond basic outpatient care. As VALCO eyes this transformation, the project represents a strategic investment in Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in the industrial hub of Tema. This development aligns with broader efforts to enhance specialist medical access, providing a sustainable model for how major industrial players can contribute to the wellbeing of their host communities and the nation's health sector at large.

Kpone District Hospital Confirms Measles Outbreak in Kokompe; Health Authorities Launch Surveillance
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Kpone District Hospital Confirms Measles Outbreak in Kokompe; Health Authorities Launch Surveillance

Health officials in the Kpone-Katamanso Municipality have confirmed four cases of measles in the Kpone Kokompe area, sparking an immediate public health response. Dr. Jemima Quarte Mensah, the Medical Superintendent of the Kpone District Hospital, announced the discovery and confirmed that the facility is taking proactive steps to manage the situation. The confirmation of these cases has put local health directorates on high alert to prevent the highly contagious viral disease from spreading further within the community. In response to the outbreak, health authorities have intensified surveillance and contact tracing efforts across the municipality. Dr. Mensah has urged parents and guardians to be on the lookout for symptoms and to report any suspected cases to health facilities immediately. The focus of the current intervention is to identify and isolate any additional cases early to break the chain of transmission. The medical superintendent emphasized that the cooperation of the community is vital for the success of these containment measures. Addressing common community practices, Dr. Mensah cautioned strongly against the use of traditional remedies and self-medication for children showing symptoms of the virus. She noted that relying on unproven treatments can lead to complications and worsen the clinical condition of affected children, whereas early professional medical intervention significantly improves outcomes. The hospital administration is advocating for a shift toward evidence-based care to ensure the safety of all children in the district. Beyond individual households, health officials are calling on institutions and organizers of large gatherings to implement preventive protocols to minimize the risk of transmission. Dr. Mensah stressed that maintaining high standards of hygiene and remaining vigilant in public spaces are essential components of the broader strategy to contain the outbreak. As surveillance continues, the health directorate remains committed to providing regular updates and ensuring that the necessary resources are available to manage any new developments.

Dancehall Star Kaakie Transitions to Healthcare as Dr. Grace Aidoo, Launches US Mental Health Practice
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Dancehall Star Kaakie Transitions to Healthcare as Dr. Grace Aidoo, Launches US Mental Health Practice

Former Ghanaian dancehall sensation Kaakie, now known professionally as Dr. Grace Aidoo, has reached a significant academic and professional milestone by earning her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This achievement culminates her transition from the heights of the music industry to the forefront of clinical healthcare. Following the completion of her doctorate, Dr. Aidoo has officially launched Kaylora Holistic Wellness & Recovery, a specialized mental health practice based in the United States, marking a new chapter in her multifaceted career. The newly established practice, Kaylora Holistic Wellness & Recovery, is designed to provide compassionate, individualized care for patients facing various mental health challenges. Dr. Aidoo’s facility offers a range of essential services, including comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and specialized therapy. By focusing on a holistic approach to wellness, the practice aims to address the mental health needs of its community through a model of care that prioritizes the unique circumstances and recovery journeys of every patient. Dr. Aidoo’s journey is a notable example of professional evolution, having successfully navigated two vastly different fields. Initially a nursing student, she rose to national and international prominence as "Kaakie," one of Ghana’s most successful dancehall artists, earning numerous awards and hit records. Despite her musical success, she remained committed to her foundational interest in healthcare. Over the years, she pursued advanced nursing qualifications, ultimately specializing in mental health to prepare for her current role as a healthcare provider and entrepreneur. The transformation from a public entertainment figure to a doctor of nursing practice highlights the growing importance of mental health advocacy and professional diversification. By leveraging her platform and professional expertise, Dr. Aidoo is bridging the gap between her legacy as a cultural icon and her future as a medical professional. Her story serves as a testament to the possibility of career fluidity and emphasizes the critical need for accessible, specialized mental health services in the modern healthcare landscape.

Zoomlion Launches Regionwide Disinfection Exercise in Upper West to Combat Post-Flood Health Risks
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Zoomlion Launches Regionwide Disinfection Exercise in Upper West to Combat Post-Flood Health Risks

Zoomlion Ghana Limited has officially commenced a comprehensive disinfection and disinfestation campaign across the Upper West Region. This strategic intervention is designed to mitigate the risk of potential disease outbreaks following a period of intense rainfall and subsequent flooding in the area. By targeting vectors and pathogens that thrive in damp and unsanitary conditions, the exercise seeks to safeguard public health and ensure that communities remain resilient against waterborne and vector-borne illnesses. The regional initiative specifically focuses on critical sanitation hotspots, including public toilets, refuse dumps, and areas with significant stagnant water and accumulated waste. These locations often become primary breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests during the rainy season, posing a direct threat to the local population. Maxwel Mba Ayipaala, the Wa Municipal Coordinating Director, highlighted that the exercise is a key component of Zoomlion’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, demonstrating a commitment to supporting local assemblies in the arduous task of environmental management. Supporting the exercise, regional government officials have emphasized the importance of high-level coordination between private waste management firms and local authorities. Mr. Damma Shaiku Mumuni, the Upper West Regional Coordinating Director, praised the government's role in facilitating the campaign but noted that such interventions must be part of a broader strategy. He stressed the need for a sustainable approach to sanitation, advocating for the transition from periodic emergency responses to a more regular, scheduled cleaning regime to address the recurring nature of environmental health challenges. As the exercise rolls out across the region, local health and sanitation officers have pledged their full cooperation to ensure all vulnerable zones are adequately covered. The campaign serves as both an immediate relief effort and a call to action for community members to maintain higher standards of hygiene. The long-term goal remains the establishment of a robust partnership between Zoomlion and local assemblies to ensure that the Upper West Region is better prepared for the sanitation pressures brought on by future rainy seasons.

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Hohoe Magistrate Court Convicts Johnvic Memorial Hotel Manager Over Public Health Violations

The Hohoe Magistrate Court has convicted Dzikum Justice, the manager of Johnvic Memorial Hotel Ltd., for significant breaches of national sanitation laws. The court found Justice guilty of accumulating refuse behind the hotel's premises, a practice that posed a threat to public health and safety within the Hohoe municipality. This legal action highlights the ongoing and rigorous enforcement of environmental regulations aimed at ensuring that commercial enterprises operate within the strict bounds of established hygiene laws. The conviction specifically cited violations of Section 56 (a), (b), and (c) of the Public Health Act 851 of 2012. This comprehensive piece of legislation provides a framework for managing public health risks and empowers local authorities to take decisive action against individuals or entities that create or permit unsanitary conditions. By allowing waste to build up on the hotel grounds, the management failed to adhere to the statutory requirements for proper waste disposal, leading to the intervention of the judicial system to uphold environmental standards. This ruling serves as a critical reminder to the hospitality industry in the Volta Region and across the country regarding the legal obligations of business managers to maintain clean environments. As the government continues to focus on public health and urban sanitation, the enforcement of the Public Health Act remains a central priority for local assemblies. This case underscores that public health is a legal mandate, where negligence in waste management can lead to criminal convictions and significant reputational damage for established businesses.

DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Surpasses 6,000 Cases as Survivors Celebrate Discharge in Béni
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DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Surpasses 6,000 Cases as Survivors Celebrate Discharge in Béni

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reached a grim milestone in its ongoing battle against Ebola, with confirmed cases officially surpassing the 6,000 mark. Even as health authorities grapple with the rising toll, a moment of hope emerged in the eastern city of Béni, where five survivors were recently discharged from specialized treatment facilities. This latest outbreak, which has been ravaging the country since May, is now recognized as the largest and deadliest epidemic in the DRC’s history, placing immense pressure on both local and international health systems. Detailed epidemiological data reveals the staggering scale of the crisis. As of the end of August, the DRC has recorded a total of 6,041 confirmed cases and 2,911 deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate of 48.2%. The virus has spread extensively, affecting 60 health zones across six different provinces. Despite the high mortality rate, there have been 1,366 documented recoveries, highlighting the critical importance of early intervention and the intensive care provided at specialized centers managed by international and local partners. The recent discharge of five survivors in Béni, including a frontline healthcare worker, serves as a testament to the tireless efforts of medical teams. These individuals received life-saving care at the Doctors Without Borders Ebola treatment center and the Béni Hospital Ebola treatment facility. The recovery of a healthcare worker is particularly significant, as medical personnel remain at high risk while operating in the heart of the epidemic's hotspots in eastern Congo. Such success stories are vital for boosting morale among the health workers and the affected communities. While the total number of recoveries offers some encouragement, health officials warn that the situation remains precarious. This current epidemic is now the second-largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded globally, surpassed only by the devastating 2014-2016 West African crisis. The sheer geographic spread across six provinces underscores the complex logistics required to contain the virus. Continued international support, infrastructure development, and localized community engagement remain vital as the DRC strives to bring the transmission rate under control and prevent further loss of life.

FDA seizes unregistered confectionery shaped like ‘cigarette’ in Accra, one arrested
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FDA Seizes Unregistered Cigarette-Shaped Lollipops in Accra Amid Public Health Concerns

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with National Security and the Ghana Police Service, has confiscated a large quantity of an unregistered confectionery known as the "Cigarette Rod Lollipop." The raid, which targeted distributors in Accra’s Central Business District, resulted in the arrest of one individual who is currently assisting authorities with investigations regarding the product's importation and sale. The FDA has categorized these sweets as a significant public health risk, warning that the product’s design serves to normalize smoking behaviors among children. According to regulatory officials, the sale of these lollipops violates the Public Health Act, which mandates that all food items must be registered and vetted before being sold to the public. Beyond registration issues, the product is under scrutiny for breaching Ghana’s Tobacco Control Law. This legislation strictly prohibits the marketing of tobacco-like products to minors. Experts argue that the "Cigarette Rod Lollipop" represents a form of aggressive marketing that could act as a psychological gateway, predisposing children to actual tobacco use later in life. The Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development (VAST Ghana) has commended the swift intervention by state agencies but is calling for an even more expansive response. Labram Musah, the Executive Director of VAST Ghana, emphasized the necessity for nationwide enforcement to ensure these products are removed from all markets across the country. The organization has also urged the FDA to conduct comprehensive laboratory testing on the lollipops to determine their chemical composition, ensuring the protection of children from potentially harmful substances in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. In response to the discovery, the FDA has cautioned the public against the purchase or consumption of the lollipops and advised citizens to report any sightings of the product to the authorities. Retailers currently holding stock of the unregistered confectionery are encouraged to surrender them to the FDA to avoid legal consequences. This crackdown underscores an ongoing regulatory commitment to safeguarding Ghanaian children from unhealthy influences and ensuring that all food products on the market adhere to national safety and ethical standards.

Amos Andoh and FoSCel Advocate for Early Genotype Awareness Beyond Pre-Marital Counseling
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Amos Andoh and FoSCel Advocate for Early Genotype Awareness Beyond Pre-Marital Counseling

Amos Andoh, the National Sickle Cell Advocate and Founder of the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation (FoSCel), has called for a fundamental shift in how genotype awareness is integrated into the national health discourse. Speaking in observance of September as Sickle Cell Awareness Month, Andoh emphasized that understanding one’s genotype should be a cornerstone of general health education rather than a topic reserved solely for those planning to marry. By normalizing genotype testing earlier in life, particularly among the youth, the foundation aims to empower individuals with vital health information before they reach critical life milestones. The push for increased awareness comes as many Ghanaians living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) continue to face significant hurdles, including recurrent physical pain, financial strain, and persistent social stigma. Andoh pointed out that misconceptions regarding the condition often lead to discrimination in various aspects of life, including employment and social circles. FoSCel is advocating for a more compassionate societal approach that recognizes the dignity and rights of "sickle cell warriors," urging the public to listen to their lived experiences to better understand the realities of the condition. Throughout the month of September, FoSCel is spearheading a series of educational initiatives and media discussions designed to bridge the information gap. The foundation’s campaign—centered on the message "Know Your Genotype. Understand Sickle Cell Disease. Support Warriors"—targets educational institutions and community centers. These efforts seek to replace myths with scientific facts, ensuring that young people are equipped to make informed decisions about their health and provide better support for those already living with the disease. Looking ahead, Andoh called for stronger collaboration between health professionals, media outlets, and community leaders to sustain the momentum of the awareness campaign. He stressed that while awareness is a necessary first step, it must lead to concrete actions that improve healthcare delivery and social support systems for affected individuals. By fostering an environment of understanding and early intervention, FoSCel hopes to reduce the prevalence of the disease and enhance the quality of life for all Ghanaians impacted by sickle cell.