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.

Zoomlion and Local Assemblies Launch Extensive Disinfection Drive Across Ashanti, Northern, and Central Regions
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Zoomlion and Local Assemblies Launch Extensive Disinfection Drive Across Ashanti, Northern, and Central Regions

Zoomlion Ghana Limited, in collaboration with various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), has rolled out a major nationwide disinfection and fumigation exercise targeting public facilities across the Ashanti, Northern, and Central Regions. This strategic intervention aims to curb the spread of disease-causing pathogens and enhance public health safety, particularly in areas grappling with the aftermath of recent flooding and poor sanitation. The campaign focuses on high-traffic areas, including markets, health centers, schools, and public toilets, to mitigate the risks of outbreaks such as cholera and malaria. In the Ashanti Region, the exercise commenced in the Oforikrom Municipality, specifically within the Asafo and Amakom market areas. Regional Manager Ernest Osei emphasized that controlling pests and pathogens is vital for a healthier environment, urging residents to maintain regular cleaning habits post-exercise. Simultaneously, in the Northern Region, the initiative targeted the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly. Teams disinfected the Tamale Central Market, several hospitals, and critical storm drains—such as the contaminated drain in Koblimahugu—to address specific environmental concerns. Health officials, including Dr. Peter Dawuni, have cautioned the public to avoid treated areas temporarily to prevent unnecessary chemical exposure. The Central Region is undergoing an intensive eight-day phase of this exercise, covering 22 assemblies in partnership with the Regional Coordinating Council. Starting in late August, this branch of the operation specifically responds to environmental contamination caused by recent floods. Noah Addo Opey, the Central Regional Manager for Zoomlion, and Regional Environmental Officer William Goku highlighted the urgency of disinfecting schools and public spaces to protect vulnerable populations. Local leaders, including assemblyman James Arthur, have called for maximum cooperation from the public to ensure the chemicals can be applied effectively across all designated zones. Beyond the immediate chemical treatment, officials are leveraging the exercise to advocate for long-term behavioral changes in sanitation. Residents across all three regions have expressed gratitude for the intervention but have also called for better maintenance of drainage systems and improved waste management practices. As the nationwide campaign progresses, the partnership between Zoomlion and the MMDAs underscores a proactive approach to public health, aiming to create a sustainable, cleaner environment that reduces the national burden of preventable diseases.

President Mahama Proposes Seven-Point Plan for Health Regulatory Reform at 28th AMCOA Conference
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President Mahama Proposes Seven-Point Plan for Health Regulatory Reform at 28th AMCOA Conference

President John Mahama has officially opened the 28th Annual Conference of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA) in Accra, calling for a "responsive" regulatory framework to safeguard patients and accelerate the continent's progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Held on August 24, 2025, the five-day conference brought together health regulators from across Africa under the theme, "Responsive Regulation for Safer Communities Towards Universal Health Coverage." The President emphasized that as Africa faces mounting pressures from rapid population growth and evolving disease patterns, the integrity of healthcare delivery depends on the strength and adaptability of its regulatory bodies. During his keynote address, President Mahama outlined a comprehensive seven-point strategy to modernize healthcare oversight. He urged African nations to prioritize regulatory harmonization and invest heavily in regulatory science to ensure that medical standards keep pace with global advancements. His recommendations included creating secure data exchange systems, protecting the sanctity of health professional education, and establishing practical frameworks for medical regulation during emergencies or humanitarian crises. Notably, the President challenged regulators to look beyond administrative metrics, stating that their success should be measured by the actual protection of patients rather than the volume of licenses issued. He also called for the swift regulation of emerging digital health technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure they safely serve the public interest. The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, echoed the President's sentiments by detailing the government's specific plans to enhance healthcare access within Ghana. Minister Akandoh announced initiatives to decentralize specialist training and expand services to underserved regions, focusing on a balance between preventative and specialized care. This domestic strategy aligns with the broader AMCOA objective of ensuring equitable distribution of medical resources across the continent. The President further advocated for increased collaboration among African nations to address the healthcare workforce deficit, suggesting that a unified approach to training and workforce mobility is essential for building resilient health systems. Adding to the call for systemic reform, keynote speaker Dr. Anarfi-Asamoah Baah urged African governments to increase domestic health spending to reduce dependency and improve long-term health outcomes. The conference concluded its opening sessions with a consensus among stakeholders that robust regulation and cross-border cooperation are the primary pillars for achieving UHC. By fostering a commitment to high professional standards and patient-centered care, the AMCOA conference aims to produce actionable outcomes that will redefine healthcare governance across Africa, ensuring that public trust remains the foundation of medical practice.

Polaris Beauty Lounge Prioritizes Client Health and Consultation in Accra Beauty Services
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Polaris Beauty Lounge Prioritizes Client Health and Consultation in Accra Beauty Services

Polaris Beauty Lounge, a unisex salon located in Accra, is redefining the local beauty experience by prioritizing comprehensive client consultations and health-conscious practices. Situated at 12 Brenya Avenue, the establishment emphasizes that a professional look is only successful if it aligns with the client’s comfort and long-term wellbeing. By integrating a mandatory consultation phase before appointments, the lounge ensures that every service—ranging from intricate braids to therapeutic massages—is tailored to the individual’s physical health and personal preferences. This proactive approach aims to bridge the gap between aesthetic desire and physiological safety. The salon’s methodology goes beyond traditional aesthetic services, focusing heavily on the suitability and maintenance of various beauty treatments. For specialized services such as lash extensions and nail care, the staff utilizes specific techniques designed to minimize discomfort and prevent potential health complications. Clients are actively encouraged to communicate any sensations of pain or unease during their sessions, a policy that underscores the salon's commitment to safety. This ongoing dialogue between the stylist and the client is framed as an essential component of the service, ensuring that the results are both beautiful and sustainable for the user. Hygiene and aftercare form the cornerstone of the Polaris Beauty Lounge philosophy. The management highlights that proper aftercare is critical to the longevity of beauty treatments and the prevention of infections or damage. By providing detailed guidance on how to maintain looks at home, the salon empowers clients to take charge of their beauty health. Located on the second floor of 12 Brenya Avenue, the lounge serves a diverse metropolitan clientele and offers multiple booking avenues, including online platforms, WhatsApp, and Instagram, while still accommodating walk-in guests. This modern approach reflects a growing trend in Accra’s beauty industry toward professionalized, health-centric personal care.

Amansie West District Assembly Inaugurates Nine-Member Committee to Enhance Road Safety
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Amansie West District Assembly Inaugurates Nine-Member Committee to Enhance Road Safety

In a proactive move to address the persistent challenge of road traffic accidents within its jurisdiction, the Amansie West District Assembly has officially inaugurated a nine-member District Road Safety Committee. The initiative marks a significant step in the district's strategy to enhance public safety through coordinated education and stakeholder engagement. Chaired by the District Coordinating Director, Mr. Thomas Kwame Okrah, the committee is tasked with spearheading efforts to reduce road-related fatalities and injuries by fostering a culture of responsible road use. The newly formed body includes representatives from various critical stakeholder groups, ensuring a multifaceted approach to transport safety. A primary focus of the committee's immediate agenda is the intensification of public education campaigns. These efforts are designed to engage motorists, pedestrians, and transport unions directly, providing them with the necessary information to navigate the district's road network safely. By emphasizing education over purely punitive measures, the assembly hopes to achieve long-term behavioral changes among road users. A specific priority for the committee is addressing the safety of motor riders, who represent a vulnerable group in the district’s transport landscape. The committee has signaled its intent to implement targeted outreach programs for motorcyclists, emphasizing the vital importance of caution and adherence to traffic regulations. Mr. Thomas Kwame Okrah highlighted that fostering collaboration among various stakeholders—including local law enforcement and community leaders—is essential to creating a sustainable environment where road accidents are significantly minimized. Looking forward, the Amansie West District Road Safety Committee will serve as the central hub for road safety advocacy and monitoring in the district. The assembly's commitment to this cause reflects a broader concern for public health and economic stability, as road crashes often place a heavy burden on local health facilities and families. By formalizing this committee, the district aims to establish a more resilient safety framework that protects the lives of its citizens and ensures safer transit for all who travel through the region.

AngloGold Ashanti Partners with National Cardiothoracic Centre to Boost Cardiovascular Health in Obuasi
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AngloGold Ashanti Partners with National Cardiothoracic Centre to Boost Cardiovascular Health in Obuasi

AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) Obuasi Mine has intensified its commitment to community wellness by launching its latest quarterly "Mini Clinic" outreach program in Akaporiso. In a strategic collaboration with the National Cardiothoracic Centre and the Ghana Health Service, the initiative aims to combat the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) within the mine's host communities. This partnership brings specialized medical expertise directly to residents, addressing a critical gap in local healthcare access and emphasizing the importance of early detection and management of heart-related conditions. During the event, hundreds of residents benefited from comprehensive health services, including free screenings for blood pressure and glucose levels, as well as one-on-one consultations with cardiologists and general practitioners. Experts from the National Cardiothoracic Centre leveraged the platform to educate participants on the risk factors associated with CVDs, which remain a leading cause of mortality globally. The outreach focused on proactive identification of symptoms, providing a vital lifeline for individuals who may otherwise lack the resources or proximity to visit specialized health facilities in major urban centers. The Acting Director of Sustainability Management at AngloGold Ashanti emphasized that the "Mini Clinic" is a cornerstone of the company’s broader sustainability strategy, which prioritizes the long-term health and well-being of its stakeholders. By integrating health education with clinical services, the program seeks to foster a culture of preventive care. Health professionals present at the clinic urged the public to adopt significant lifestyle modifications—such as balanced diets and regular physical activity—to mitigate the risks of hypertension and other cardiovascular complications. Local traditional leaders, including the area’s overlord, lauded the initiative for its tangible impact on the community, noting that such interventions significantly reduce the financial and logistical burden on vulnerable households. As the program continues its quarterly rotation through various communities in Obuasi, it serves as a model for public-private partnerships in the health sector. The continued collaboration between AGA and national health institutions is expected to provide a sustainable framework for improving health outcomes and life expectancy across the municipality.

Dr Julius Debrah — Chief of Staff, speaking at the conference
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Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah Urges Collective National Action to Tackle Ghana's Sanitation Crisis

The Chief of Staff, Dr. Julius Debrah, has issued a powerful call for a unified national front to address Ghana’s persistent environmental sanitation challenges. Speaking at the Clean Conference held at the University of Ghana, Dr. Debrah emphasized that the government cannot win the fight against poor sanitation in isolation. He stressed that a successful outcome requires a deep-seated collaboration between the state and its citizens, positioning effective sanitation systems as a fundamental pillar for both public health and sustainable living across the country. The conference served as a critical platform to evaluate Ghana's progress toward the United Nations' Agenda 2030 goals, specifically those concerning sanitation and environmental sustainability. Dr. Debrah noted that improving the nation's sanitary conditions is not merely an aesthetic concern but a vital necessity for safeguarding the health of the population and ensuring long-term economic stability. By aligning local efforts with global sustainability targets, the administration aims to create a cleaner, more resilient environment for all Ghanaians. The urgency of the sanitation crisis was echoed by a diverse group of influential leaders, including the National Chief Imam and the Ga Mantse. Their presence underscored the fact that sanitation is a cross-cutting issue that transcends political and social boundaries. These leaders advocated for a sense of collective responsibility, urging every citizen to take ownership of their immediate environment. They specifically called upon the media to play a more proactive role by prioritizing sanitation issues in public discourse, thereby keeping the pressure on stakeholders to take decisive action. Moving forward, the Chief of Staff and other key stakeholders believe that a shift in public attitude, coupled with robust government policy, is the only way to protect the environment for future generations. The consensus from the Clean Conference is that while the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable if every Ghanaian contributes to the effort. The call to action remains clear: through shared responsibility and consistent advocacy, the nation can achieve its environmental goals and ensure a healthier future for all.

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Ghana Health Service Launches National PHEOC Strategic Plan to Bolster Public Health Emergency Response

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially launched five landmark strategic documents designed to significantly enhance the country’s preparedness and response to public health emergencies. This comprehensive initiative is anchored by the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) Strategic Plan 2026-2030 and the National PHEOC Handbook 2026. Alongside these primary frameworks, the GHS introduced revised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure a more streamlined and efficient approach to managing health crises across the nation. Developed through extensive collaboration with various stakeholders, these documents represent a major step toward building a more resilient and coordinated health emergency management system. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea emphasized the critical necessity of a unified and integrated response to health threats. He noted that the development of these strategic frameworks was heavily informed by lessons learned from past disease outbreaks, which highlighted the need for improved coordination between different sectors of the healthcare system. The new documents are intended to provide a clear roadmap for the GHS and its partners to act decisively and in unison when future health emergencies arise, ensuring that resources are deployed effectively to protect the public. The implementation of these strategies will focus on several core pillars, including governance, information and communication technology (ICT), logistics, and workforce capacity building. By prioritizing these areas, the GHS aims to enable effective emergency responses at all levels of health operations, from national centers to local districts. The long-term goal of the PHEOC Strategic Plan is to establish a sustainable infrastructure that can handle diverse public health challenges, thereby safeguarding the health and well-being of all Ghanaians through proactive planning and modern emergency management techniques.

Ghana Secures €2 Million for Local Vaccine and Pharmaceutical Innovation
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Ghana Secures €2 Million for Local Vaccine and Pharmaceutical Innovation

Ghanaian research institutions and pharmaceutical companies have secured €2 million in grants to accelerate the development of vaccines and essential medicines for local and regional markets. The initiative, known as the PharmaVax Ghana programme, was officially launched in Accra on August 19. It represents a strategic partnership between the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the European Union, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), alongside Ghana’s National Vaccine Institute. The primary objective is to bridge the gap between laboratory research and commercial production, ensuring that medical breakthroughs reach the people who need them most. Out of numerous applicants, eight specific projects were selected for funding, focusing on critical health challenges such as malaria and chronic diseases. Notable innovations under this scheme include the development of a fast-dissolving malaria tablet specifically designed for children and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to advance research into monoclonal antibodies. Beyond the initial €2 million grant, local partners have committed an additional €425,000, bringing the total investment closer to €2.5 million. These projects will receive not only financial backing but also technical support, networking opportunities, and structured knowledge exchange to facilitate their path to market. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh highlighted the transformative potential of the programme during the launch, emphasizing that collaboration between researchers and manufacturers is the cornerstone of a sustainable healthcare ecosystem. This initiative aligns with the mandate of the National Vaccine Institute, established in 2023 to coordinate the country's vaccine and sera research efforts. By fostering a robust local manufacturing pipeline, Ghana aims to strengthen its pharmaceutical industry and significantly reduce its heavy reliance on imported health products, which currently dominate the domestic market. The PharmaVax Ghana programme marks a pivotal step toward achieving pharmaceutical self-sufficiency in West Africa. As these eight projects move from the research phase toward commercialization, they are expected to stimulate economic growth and enhance public health outcomes across the sub-region. By positioning Ghana as a hub for medical innovation, the investment ensures that the country is better prepared to manage future health crises while providing affordable, locally-produced treatments for its citizens.

Forestry Commission Deputy CEO Elikem Kotoko Shares Personal Battle with Mental Health Following $497,000 Loss
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Forestry Commission Deputy CEO Elikem Kotoko Shares Personal Battle with Mental Health Following $497,000 Loss

Elikem Kotoko, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, has made a candid disclosure regarding his mental health journey, revealing that he contemplated suicide twice following a catastrophic financial loss nearly a decade ago. Speaking at a recent Youth Forum, Kotoko shared how the twin disasters of June 3, 2015—the floods and fire in Accra—wiped out his business investments valued at approximately $497,000. This revelation sheds light on the profound personal and psychological toll that major national disasters can take on individual entrepreneurs beyond the immediate physical destruction. The 2015 floods remain one of the most tragic events in Ghana's recent history, but Kotoko's account provides a rare look at the long-term emotional fallout of such a disaster. He explained that the sudden destruction of his business interests was not just a financial setback but a soul-crushing experience that led him to the brink of self-harm. By sharing that he nearly took his life on two separate occasions, Kotoko highlighted the intense pressure and despair that often accompany significant economic failure in a competitive business environment. By utilizing the Youth Forum as a platform for this testimony, Kotoko aimed to break the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health and suicide in Ghana. His story emphasizes that even those in high-ranking leadership positions are not immune to psychological crises. The Deputy CEO used his own experience as a teaching moment for the younger generation, encouraging resilience and urging those facing similar struggles to seek help rather than succumb to hopelessness. His journey from the depths of despair to his current role in national administration serves as a powerful narrative of recovery and professional resurgence. This disclosure adds significant weight to the ongoing national conversation about mental health awareness and the necessity of robust support systems for trauma victims. As more public figures share their lived experiences with mental health challenges, advocates hope it will foster a culture where seeking psychological assistance is normalized. Kotoko's openness provides a critical reminder of the importance of mental health infrastructure in supporting Ghanaians through both personal and national tragedies.

Pope Leo and UN Alarm as Attacks on Healthcare Workers Worsen DRC Ebola Crisis
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Pope Leo and UN Alarm as Attacks on Healthcare Workers Worsen DRC Ebola Crisis

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently grappling with its most severe Ebola epidemic to date, prompting urgent calls for international intervention. With the death toll reaching 2,606 out of 5,458 confirmed cases, Pope Leo has appealed to the global community to support local efforts in mitigating the crisis. This 17th outbreak in the nation’s history has now eclipsed the previous record set between 2018 and 2020, signaling a humanitarian emergency that requires immediate and coordinated action to prevent further loss of life. The response effort is being severely undermined by a surge in violence targeting those on the front lines. According to United Nations Ebola coordinator Julien Harneis, more than 260 healthcare workers have been attacked in the last six months alone, resulting in eight fatalities. These attacks have targeted ambulances and healthcare facilities, driven by fear and deep-seated mistrust within local communities. The Red Cross has also reported multiple incidents against its volunteers, complicating the logistics of reaching affected areas and providing life-saving care. Beyond physical violence, misinformation and regional conflict are exacerbating the spread of the virus. False narratives surrounding the outbreak have led to resistance against medical intervention, while ongoing humanitarian needs and financial disruptions have made it difficult to pay healthcare workers on the ground. The human cost to the medical community is staggering: approximately 160 healthcare workers have contracted Ebola themselves, with 43 of them succumbing to the disease. These factors combined have created a perfect storm, hindering the ability of health agencies to contain the virus effectively. As the international community weighs its response, the situation in the DRC serves as a stark reminder of the intersection between public health and regional stability. Pope Leo, speaking during a Sunday prayer in Saint Peter’s Square, emphasized that local efforts must be bolstered by international cooperation to address the scale of the epidemic. Without a resolution to the security challenges and a concerted effort to combat misinformation, the DRC faces an uphill battle in ending what has become a historic and devastating public health crisis.

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BasicNeeds Ghana Empowers Vulnerable Groups in Bolgatanga to Access Essential Social Protection Programs

BasicNeeds Ghana has launched a strategic educational initiative in the Bolgatanga Municipality aimed at bridging the information gap between vulnerable populations and government-led social protection programs. The session focused on equipping marginalized groups—including pregnant women, nursing mothers, and survivors of gender-based violence—with the knowledge necessary to access the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and the Disability Fund. Funded by Expertise France, this initiative is part of a comprehensive three-year project currently in its second year, designed to address health disparities and improve the socio-economic well-being of the nation’s poorest citizens. During the interface meeting, stakeholders from the Ghana Health Service and the Department of Social Welfare engaged directly with potential beneficiaries to demystify the application processes and eligibility criteria for state support. Mr. Bernard Azuure, representing BasicNeeds Ghana, emphasized that many qualified individuals remain outside the safety net simply due to a lack of awareness or difficulty navigating institutional bureaucracy. By facilitating direct dialogue, the project seeks to ensure that those most in need can successfully enroll in programs that provide financial stipends and healthcare coverage, thereby reducing the burden of extreme poverty and gender-related inequalities. Local officials highlighted the tangible impact of these social interventions, noting that approximately 1,128 households within the municipality are already benefiting from the LEAP program. However, the meeting also underscored the need for continuous advocacy and a rigorous reassessment of beneficiaries to ensure that support reaches the intended targets effectively. This regional effort in the Upper East is part of a broader national strategy to promote health equity and social inclusion for adolescents and women. As the project enters its final stages, the focus remains on building sustainable links between vulnerable communities and the institutional frameworks meant to protect them.

Zoomlion Ghana Launches Region-Wide Disinfection Campaign to Prevent Post-Flood Disease Outbreaks in Accra
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Zoomlion Ghana Launches Region-Wide Disinfection Campaign to Prevent Post-Flood Disease Outbreaks in Accra

Zoomlion Ghana Limited, in collaboration with various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), has launched an intensive disinfection and disinfestation exercise across the Greater Accra Region to mitigate the health risks following recent floods. Commencing on August 21, the large-scale campaign is designed as a corporate social responsibility project to safeguard public health in the wake of environmental contamination. The initiative targets high-risk public areas where floodwaters have left behind debris and stagnant pools, creating potential breeding grounds for pathogens and disease-carrying insects. The exercise, which is fully funded by Zoomlion, focuses on critical communal spaces such as markets, schools, health facilities, public latrines, and waste disposal sites. By deploying specialized teams to these locations, the company aims to eradicate harmful microorganisms and vectors like mosquitoes and flies that thrive in post-flood conditions. Ricky Anokye Frimpong, Zoomlion's Greater Accra Regional Manager, noted that the disinfection efforts have already reached five assemblies. A notable part of the operation involves discussions with local assemblies to improve the La Bawleshie dumpsite, ensuring it is better managed for community use. As the campaign continues through the weekend toward its scheduled conclusion on August 24, 2025, Zoomlion is calling for a collaborative effort from the public. Management has emphasized that while the disinfection exercise provides a vital layer of protection, residents must uphold high sanitation standards to prevent the resurgence of disease. By maintaining clean environments and eliminating standing water, community members can help sustain the impact of the disinfection and prevent mosquito breeding. This proactive measure highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in managing urban health challenges following climate-related events.