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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Ten Cattle Electrocuted in Abrewanko as Fallen High-Tension Cable Poses Public Health Risk

In the farming community of Abrewanko, located in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region, a dangerous incident involving a fallen high-tension electricity cable has resulted in the death of ten cattle. The livestock were electrocuted after coming into contact with a live wire that had fallen into a local stream, a vital water source for the community. The incident has raised significant public health and safety concerns, as the live cable remains active and submerged, threatening the lives of residents and other animals in the vicinity. According to Mr. Ericson Adonteng Boateng, the local Assembly Member for the area, the high-tension cable fell approximately three days prior to the reported deaths of the livestock. The cattle were reportedly struck while attempting to drink from the stream. Mr. Boateng expressed grave concern over the delayed response to the hazard, emphasizing that the fallen line poses an immediate and lethal threat to the human population, particularly children and farmers who frequently traverse the area. He noted that the convergence of electricity and water creates a highly volatile situation that requires professional intervention. The local leadership has issued an urgent appeal to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to intervene immediately. The primary request is for the power supply to the affected line to be disconnected and for the area to be secured to prevent further loss of life. Until such measures are implemented, residents have been strongly advised to avoid the stream and the surrounding affected zones. This incident highlights the critical need for rapid response mechanisms from utility providers when infrastructure failures occur in rural farming communities, where the safety of both livelihoods and lives is at stake.

WAHO Launches Patient Support Centres in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo to Boost Healthcare Accountability
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WAHO Launches Patient Support Centres in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo to Boost Healthcare Accountability

The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has officially launched a landmark initiative to establish Health Service User Support Centres in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo. Formally inaugurated in Lomé, Togo, on August 21, 2026, the project marks a significant step toward enhancing healthcare quality and safety across the sub-region. These centres are designed to serve as dedicated, structured platforms where patients can seek guidance, report grievances, and engage in meaningful dialogue regarding their medical experiences, ensuring their voices are heard within the health system. Beyond providing a simple avenue for complaints, the new centres are intended to be proactive tools for systemic reform. Dr. Melchior Athanase J. C. Aïssi, the Director General of WAHO, emphasized that the facilities will go beyond merely recording issues; they will actively gather and analyze information to identify recurring failures in health service delivery. By documenting patient feedback and monitoring the quality of care, the centres aim to help health authorities rectify long-standing issues and implement data-driven improvements that prioritize the safety and dignity of every individual seeking treatment. This regional initiative is part of a broader ECOWAS strategy to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and the communities they serve. Representatives from various medical councils and ECOWAS leadership attended the launch, highlighting the critical importance of building mutual trust within the health sector. As the centres begin operations, the lessons learned in Benin, The Gambia, and Togo will be shared among other member states to foster regional collaboration. Ultimately, the project seeks to create a more responsive and accountable health system across West Africa, ensuring that patient feedback becomes a cornerstone of medical excellence.

FDA Arrests Makola Market Traders Over Sale of Harmful "Cigarette Toffee"
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FDA Arrests Makola Market Traders Over Sale of Harmful "Cigarette Toffee"

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has conducted a high-stakes enforcement operation at the bustling Makola Market in Accra, leading to the arrest of several traders. The crackdown specifically targeted the sale and distribution of "cigarette toffee," a product that has raised significant health and safety concerns among regulators. This move marks a decisive step by the FDA to cleanse the local market of unauthorized and potentially harmful confectionery products that mimic regulated substances and could pose a risk to public health. During the sweep, FDA officials visited multiple sections of the market where the controversial items were reportedly being sold. The operation resulted in the apprehension of several individuals found in possession of the "cigarette toffee" and the immediate seizure of their stock. While the specific chemical ingredients of the sweets are still being analyzed, the FDA’s primary concern lies in the product's branding and its deceptive appeal to minors. By packaging sweets to resemble cigarettes, the Authority argues that manufacturers and distributors are normalizing tobacco use among youth and potentially exposing children to unregulated substances. This enforcement action is part of the FDA's intensified monitoring strategy aimed at protecting the Ghanaian public, particularly vulnerable groups like children, from substandard and dangerous goods. Moving forward, the Authority has indicated that it will conduct thorough laboratory investigations into the seized products to determine if they contain any toxic additives. The implicated traders are expected to face legal repercussions as investigations continue. Furthermore, the FDA has signaled that similar operations will be extended to other major markets across the country to ensure strict compliance with public health regulations and to deter the sale of deceptive or hazardous products.

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Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Records First Decade-Low Maternal Mortality Rate Following MICU Launch

The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi has achieved a significant breakthrough in maternal healthcare, recording its first substantial reduction in maternal mortality in nearly ten years. Between January and June 2026, the facility reported 55 maternal deaths, a notable decrease from the 78 deaths recorded during the same period in 2025. This turnaround is largely attributed to the operationalization of the hospital's specialized Maternal Intensive Care Unit (MICU), which has fundamentally enhanced the facility's capacity to manage high-risk pregnancies and critically ill mothers. Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, the Chief Executive Officer of KATH, explained that the MICU has become a cornerstone of the hospital’s strategy to safeguard maternal lives. Although the unit is currently operating at half-capacity—utilizing four out of its eight designated beds—the impact on patient outcomes has been immediate and profound. By providing a dedicated environment for critical care, medical teams can now offer more intensive monitoring and rapid interventions that were previously unavailable in a standard ward setting. This targeted approach to critical maternal care addresses a long-standing gap in the regional healthcare infrastructure. In addition to these improvements in emergency and critical care, KATH is expanding its services to address broader reproductive health challenges. The hospital is set to launch Ghana’s first public Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Centre later this month. This new facility aims to provide affordable fertility services to the public, marking another milestone in the hospital’s efforts to modernize maternal and reproductive health services. As KATH continues to scale up its MICU operations and introduce new technologies, healthcare officials remain optimistic that these interventions will sustain the downward trend in maternal mortality and improve overall health outcomes for women across the country.

Eni Akonobea Introduces 'Eni Asiri' Philosophy to Redefine Wellness and Emotional Wealth
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Eni Akonobea Introduces 'Eni Asiri' Philosophy to Redefine Wellness and Emotional Wealth

Eni Akonobea, a wellness advocate and visionary, has launched 'Eni Asiri', a philosophy that leverages the nurturing essence of motherhood to redefine modern well-being. Translated as 'The Mother’s Secret', the concept focuses on what Akonobea calls 'Wellness Curation'—the intentional act of creating environments and conditions that allow individuals to flourish. Moving beyond the traditional focus on individual health achievements, Eni Asiri emphasizes that true wellness is a collective and environmental endeavor, rooted in the qualities of nourishment, presence, and discernment.\n\nThe foundation of this philosophy lies in Akonobea’s concept of 'Refined African Wellness'. This approach integrates traditional African communal values with contemporary life, emphasizing the relational aspects of well-being. By focusing on the ecosystem of a person’s life—including their relationships, community, and immediate environment—Akonobea argues that individuals can achieve a more sustainable form of success. Her work challenges the conventional narrative of individualistic achievement, suggesting instead that a flourishing life is the natural result of a well-curated environment that nurtures both peace and ambition.\n\nCentral to the Eni Asiri mission is the cultivation of 'Emotional Wealth', which Akonobea identifies as a crucial but often overlooked component of leadership and personal growth. To facilitate this, she has introduced initiatives such as 'Healing Dialogues' and 'The Margin'. These platforms are designed to foster open conversations about the unspoken realities of life, encouraging participants to practice intentional living and mindfulness. By prioritizing emotional well-being, these programs aim to provide leaders and individuals with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern life with grace and resilience.\n\nUltimately, Akonobea’s philosophy seeks to transform how wellness is perceived and practiced in a globalized world while remaining deeply rooted in cultural heritage. By advocating for a holistic view that includes practical needs and emotional depth, Eni Asiri offers a roadmap for those seeking a more meaningful and balanced existence. As the movement grows, it promises to influence a new generation of leaders who view their environment and emotional health as the primary engines of their success, rather than mere afterthoughts to their professional goals.

Haruna Abdul-Karim, District Chief Executive of Kpandai, inaugurating the mechanized water system at Kabonwuli
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Kpandai District Assembly Enhances Rural Health with New Mechanized Water Systems in Three Communities

Residents of Lesseni, Kojobone, and Kabonwuli in the Kpandai District have gained access to safe drinking water following the completion of three newly mechanized water systems. The project, executed by Koddeg Construction Ghana Limited, represents a critical intervention in a region where community members have historically struggled with acute water shortages. By transitioning from unsafe, contaminated sources to treated, reliable water, the initiative aims to drastically reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases and improve the overall well-being of the rural population. The construction of these systems was a swift undertaking, commencing in April and reaching completion by July. To ensure sustainability and reliability, the mechanized systems incorporate modern technology, including a hybrid power source. This design is intended to provide a consistent supply of potable water, mitigating the impact of potential power outages or fluctuations that often hinder rural infrastructure. The technical upgrade is expected to serve as a model for future water projects within the district. District Chief Executive (DCE) Haruna Abdul-Karim emphasized that the provision of potable water is a fundamental requirement for both public health and sustainable economic growth. Beyond the immediate health benefits, the DCE noted that the improved access would bolster sanitation efforts and support local education and farming activities. By reducing the time and physical burden of fetching water from distant sources, the new systems are anticipated to increase school attendance and productivity for residents in the beneficiary communities. This infrastructure investment marks a significant step toward addressing long-standing developmental challenges in the Kpandai District. Moving forward, the Assembly has signaled its commitment to maintaining these systems and expanding similar initiatives to other underserved areas. The completion of these mechanized systems aligns with broader national goals to achieve universal access to clean water, ensuring that even the most remote communities are not left behind in Ghana’s development agenda.

The fumigation exercise at the Ho Central Market
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Zoomlion Ghana Initiates Wide-Scale Disinfection to Combat Post-Flood Health Risks in Eastern and Volta Regions

Zoomlion Ghana Limited has launched a major disinfection and fumigation exercise across 51 municipalities and districts in the Eastern and Volta Regions to mitigate potential health crises following recent floods. The initiative, undertaken as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility, aims to prevent the outbreak of diseases such as malaria, cholera, typhoid, and other waterborne illnesses. By targeting high-traffic public spaces, the waste management giant seeks to ensure sanitary conditions and protect public health in communities vulnerable to post-flood contamination. In the Eastern Region, the exercise spans all 33 Municipal and District Assemblies, focusing on markets, lorry parks, and refuse sites. Eastern Regional Manager Cynthia Gbadago highlighted the urgency of the campaign, which is scheduled to conclude on September 30. Gbadago emphasized that beyond the physical spraying, the initiative includes public education components to encourage safety measures and improved sanitation habits among residents. The Eastern Regional Environmental Officer has also backed the project, noting the critical role of professional disinfection in maintaining community hygiene standards. Simultaneously, a similar effort is underway across all 18 municipalities in the Volta Region, conducted in partnership with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council. During a disinfection session at the Ho Central Market, Volta Regional Manager Emmanuel Amemakalor assured the public that the company possesses the necessary personnel and logistics to handle the health threats posed by receding floodwaters. While Amemakalor noted that the flooding in the Volta Region was less severe than in other areas, he stressed that the risk of disease remains a priority. This phase of the exercise, which targets schools and public toilets in addition to markets, is expected to wrap up by September 19. Both regional operations are being provided free of charge, reflecting Zoomlion’s commitment to community welfare during environmental challenges. Regional health officials, including Volta Regional Environmental Health Officer Stella Kumedzro, have underscored the importance of these interventions in neutralizing the dangers posed by floodwater residue. Moving forward, the collaboration between private waste management entities and regional authorities is seen as a vital strategy for building environmental resilience and preventing recurring health outbreaks across Ghana’s flood-prone regions.

Dr Anthony Apedzi — CEO, St John Ghana
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St John Ambulance Ghana Launches Community-Based Initiative to Enhance Maternal and Newborn Health

St John Ambulance Ghana has officially launched its Mother and Baby Programme in Accra, a community-driven initiative designed to significantly improve maternal and newborn health outcomes across the country. Under the theme "Healthy mothers, healthy babies, stronger communities: Advancing free primary health care through mother and baby care," the project seeks to bridge the critical gap between individual households and formal health facilities. By focusing on health education and timely medical referrals, the initiative aims to reduce preventable deaths among mothers and infants, effectively complementing existing government efforts in the healthcare sector. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Anthony Apedzi, CEO of St John Ambulance Ghana, emphasized that this programme marks a strategic expansion of the organization's role beyond its traditional emergency services. The initiative is specifically aligned with the upcoming national health strategy for 2026-2030, which prioritizes informed health decision-making and access to skilled care. By mobilizing volunteers to promote comprehensive antenatal, postnatal, and newborn care, St John Ambulance intends to foster a robust community-level support system that ensures women receive professional medical attention at every stage of pregnancy and early childhood. The programme received a significant endorsement from traditional leadership, with Naa-Amorkor Shikafutru I, the Queenmother of Asere Amartse We Clan, pledging her full commitment to the cause. She identified delayed care and a general lack of awareness regarding pregnancy danger signs as major hurdles currently facing families in Ghana. Naa-Amorkor urged community members to actively support the programme's volunteers and specifically called on husbands and family members to play a more proactive role in assisting women during and after childbirth. She also highlighted the vital role of traditional leaders in debunking harmful myths and promoting modern healthcare practices within their jurisdictions. Beyond immediate medical interventions, the Mother and Baby Programme is set to strengthen primary healthcare by fostering deeper community participation and engagement. Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, noted that the initiative's focus on health education would create a more resilient community structure capable of responding to maternal health challenges. As the programme rolls out, it is expected to provide a sustainable blueprint for how non-governmental health organizations can work alongside traditional authorities and government agencies to ensure that no mother or child is left behind due to a lack of awareness or accessible care.

Ghana AIDS Commission Calls for Nationwide Adoption of Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy to Protect Productivity
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Ghana AIDS Commission Calls for Nationwide Adoption of Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy to Protect Productivity

The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has issued a strong call to public and private institutions across the country to institutionalize the National Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy. John Eliasu Mahama, the Acting Director of Policy and Planning at the GAC, emphasized that adopting these guidelines is crucial for safeguarding worker dignity and maintaining national productivity. Launched in its revised form in April 2026, the policy serves as a strategic framework to address the persistent threat of HIV and other health challenges within the professional environment. The policy, which has been in development through collaborative efforts since 2005, has evolved to include a broader scope of wellness measures beyond HIV/AIDS. It aims to mitigate risks associated with both communicable and non-communicable diseases that affect the economically active population. Mr. Mahama highlighted that the welfare of employees is intrinsically linked to the sustainability of businesses, noting that a healthy workforce is the backbone of a thriving economy. He argued that neglect of these health policies could lead to significant losses in human capital and operational efficiency. A central pillar of the GAC's advocacy is the creation of a stigma-free work environment. By implementing formal wellness policies, institutions can provide a safety net that protects workers from discrimination while encouraging them to seek necessary health services. The GAC stresses that the burden of HIV falls heavily on the most productive age groups, making it a corporate priority to ensure that these individuals are supported rather than marginalized. Effective implementation, however, requires active collaboration among government agencies, private sector leadership, and various stakeholders. Looking ahead, the GAC intends to work closely with organizations to ensure the policy is not merely a document but an active part of corporate culture. As the 2026 revised guidelines take effect, the commission expects a nationwide shift toward more comprehensive employee care. By prioritizing health and wellness, Ghanaian institutions can foster a resilient workforce capable of driving the nation’s socio-economic goals while addressing the ongoing challenges posed by the HIV epidemic and other health risks.

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EPA Boss Nana Ama Browne Klutse Leads Styrofoam Sensitization Drive at Kejetia Market Ahead of 2027 Ban

Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), has spearheaded an intensive sensitization campaign at the Kejetia Market in Kumasi to educate traders and the general public about the hazards of styrofoam. The initiative is a critical step in the government's broader strategy to phase out harmful packaging materials, particularly ahead of a planned nationwide ban on styrofoam products set for 2027. By engaging directly with one of the country’s largest trading hubs, the EPA aims to raise awareness about the environmental and health risks associated with the widespread use of these materials. During her visit to the Kumasi City Market, Professor Klutse engaged in one-on-one discussions with vendors and consumers to highlight the dangers that styrofoam poses to both human health and the ecosystem. She emphasized that styrofoam is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, often clogging drainage systems and exacerbating flooding in urban areas. Furthermore, the EPA chief pointed out the potential health risks involved when hot food is served in styrofoam containers, which can lead to the leaching of harmful chemicals into the diet of unsuspecting citizens. The outreach at Kejetia serves as a proactive measure to ensure that the informal sector is not left behind in the transition toward sustainable packaging. By providing information early, the EPA hopes to encourage traders to begin exploring biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives before the 2027 deadline makes styrofoam illegal. This grassroots approach is designed to foster voluntary compliance and minimize the economic impact on small-scale food vendors who currently rely on cheap plastic and styrofoam products for their daily operations. As the EPA continues its national awareness tour, the engagement at Kejetia marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s environmental protection journey. The Authority has indicated that more markets across the country will be visited to ensure a unified understanding of the upcoming ban. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to public health and environmental sustainability, signaling a clear shift toward a cleaner and safer Ghana through collaborative education and regulatory foresight.

Final year dental students of the University of Ghana Dental School and New York University performing dental cleaning for students of the New Horizon Special School
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Rotary Club of Accra Labone Leads Free Dental Outreach for Children with Special Needs

The Rotary Club of Accra Labone, in collaboration with the University of Ghana Dental School and several corporate partners, has organized a comprehensive free dental care session for students at the New Horizon Special School. This initiative was specifically designed to bridge the gap in oral health accessibility for children with special needs, who often face significant barriers to receiving standard medical care. By bringing specialized services directly to the school environment, the organizers ensured that students received essential screenings and treatments in a familiar and supportive setting. During the outreach event, a team of dental professionals and volunteers provided a range of services, including oral examinations, professional teeth cleaning, and essential preventative care. For children requiring more intensive clinical intervention, the team provided official referrals for further treatment at specialized facilities. The collaborative effort involved multiple Rotary Clubs and various corporate sponsors, demonstrating a unified commitment to community service and the physical well-being of vulnerable populations within the capital. Mercy Odzawo, President of the Rotary Club of Accra Labone, emphasized that the project was born out of a recognized need to alleviate the anxiety and mobility challenges these children often experience in conventional dental settings. According to Odzawo, many children with special needs find traditional clinical environments overwhelming or physically inaccessible, making routine check-ups difficult for both the students and their caregivers. This specialized outreach aims to remove those stressors while ensuring that no child is left behind due to physical or cognitive challenges. This year's event builds upon the success of a similar outreach conducted the previous year, highlighting Rotary's ongoing dedication to serving marginalized groups. Beyond the immediate clinical benefits, the program serves as a vital reminder of the importance of inclusive healthcare services in Ghana. Organizers expressed hope that such initiatives will continue to foster awareness and encourage more private-sector involvement in providing specialized care for those with unique health requirements, ensuring that all children have access to the dignity of good oral health.

Sista Afia Advocates for Enhanced Microphone Hygiene Among Ghanaian Artistes
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Sista Afia Advocates for Enhanced Microphone Hygiene Among Ghanaian Artistes

Ghanaian singer and songwriter Sista Afia has issued a public call to her colleagues in the music industry to adopt stricter hygiene practices, specifically regarding the use of shared microphones during live performances. Highlighting the potential health risks inherent in the entertainment industry's fast-paced environment, the musician emphasized that simple precautionary measures could prevent the spread of illnesses among performers who frequently share stage equipment at major events and concerts. Taking to social media to share her concerns, Sista Afia urged artistes to be proactive about their health by ensuring microphones are properly sanitized before they come into close contact with their mouths. "PLEASE DISINFECT THE MIC BEFORE YOU PUT YOUR MOUTH ON IT!" she stated, underscoring the urgency of the matter. The singer pointed out that while a microphone might not be the sole source of an illness, the high frequency with which these devices are handled and used by multiple individuals in quick succession makes them a significant potential vector for germs and bacteria. To mitigate these risks, Sista Afia recommended that artistes carry their own disinfectant sprays or, where possible, invest in personal microphones for their sets. The sharing of technical equipment is a standard practice at many Ghanaian festivals and multi-performer shows, where logistical constraints often mean a single microphone is passed between several acts. By introducing a personal sanitation routine or using dedicated equipment, artistes can better protect themselves from respiratory infections and other communicable conditions that can thrive on surface contact. This advocacy for better health standards within the creative arts sector highlights a growing awareness of occupational health among Ghanaian entertainers. While the entertainment industry often focuses on the glamour of the stage, Sista Afia’s reminder serves as a practical call to action for event organizers and technical crews to also prioritize the safety of the talent. As the industry continues to grow, the adoption of such basic hygiene protocols could become a standard requirement for backstage management and performer safety across the country.