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.

Xi Jinping calls for decisive progress on Healthy China initiative
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Xi Jinping calls for decisive progress on Healthy China initiative

Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged for the comprehensive implementation of the Healthy China Initiative, calling for decisive progress during a national health meeting held in Beijing. Addressing key stakeholders, President Xi emphasized the importance of a health development path unique to China, positioning public health as a cornerstone of the nation’s broader development strategy. He stressed that the health of the population is fundamental to the country's modernization efforts and social stability. The initiative is set to play a pivotal role during the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan, which will span from 2026 to 2030. Xi highlighted the necessity of enhancing healthcare systems to meet the evolving needs of the Chinese population. Central to this strategy is the integration of preventive measures into all levels of government policy, shifting the focus from reactive treatment to proactive health management. This approach aims to reduce the burden on the national healthcare system while improving the overall quality of life for citizens. President Xi also called for the optimization of medical institutions and the significant advancement of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). By modernizing medical infrastructure and promoting the unique benefits of TCM, China seeks to create a more resilient and versatile health sector. Additionally, the President stressed the urgent need to train a new generation of qualified medical professionals, ensuring that the healthcare workforce is capable of meeting modern challenges and delivering high-quality care across both urban and rural areas. Beyond domestic goals, Xi underscored the importance of global cooperation on health issues, advocating for shared responsibility in tackling international health crises. This vision for a Healthy China includes contributing to global health governance and sharing resources to improve international well-being. As the nation moves toward the 2026-2030 planning period, the emphasis on a comprehensive health-in-all-policies approach signals a significant shift in how China intends to manage its public health challenges on both a local and global scale.

Ghana Health Service distributes 80,000 protective shoes to health workers
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Ghana Health Service distributes 80,000 protective shoes to health workers

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has commenced the distribution of 80,000 pairs of specialized protective footwear to health professionals across the country. This initiative specifically targets medical staff enrolled in the Free Primary Healthcare programme, providing them with essential equipment to enhance safety during service delivery. The consignment was made possible through a collaborative donation from Sanford, World Shoe Ltd., and Samaritan’s Feet Ghana, marking a significant step in improving the working conditions of frontline health workers. The footwear is engineered from lightweight EVA foam and features advanced antimicrobial properties designed to mitigate the risk of infections among staff. In addition to their medical utility, the shoes are biodegradable, aligning with environmental sustainability goals within the health sector. Karoliina Slack, representing Sanford, noted that the donation serves as a gesture of appreciation for the immense sacrifices and dedication shown by Ghanaian health workers in their daily duties. Beyond immediate health benefits, the initiative emphasizes the importance of local industrial capacity. Manny Ohonme highlighted that by prioritizing locally manufactured products, the partnership aims to stimulate the domestic economy and create jobs while meeting critical healthcare needs. Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea of the GHS underscored the service's commitment to ensuring that every pair reaches its intended beneficiary effectively, ensuring that the logistical chain supports the frontline workers who need the protection most. Looking forward, the donor organizations and the GHS intend to deepen their collaboration to further strengthen Ghana's healthcare infrastructure. This distribution is viewed as part of broader interventions aimed at equipping the health workforce with the necessary tools to sustain the Free Primary Healthcare programme. By integrating local manufacturing with public health needs, the GHS seeks to build a more resilient and self-sufficient health system for the long term.

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Abena Osei-Asare directs UGMC to resolve procurement infractions

The Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Abena Osei-Asare, has ordered the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) to rectify several procurement irregularities identified in the 2025 Auditor-General's report. Speaking during a committee session on October 13, 2026, the Chairperson emphasized the critical need for the medical facility to align its administrative processes with national standards to ensure transparency and financial accountability. The directive follows the discovery of multiple infractions within the UGMC's procurement department as detailed by the Auditor-General. Osei-Asare specifically urged the management of the medical centre to fully implement and utilize the Ghana Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS). She argued that transitioning to this digital platform would significantly enhance compliance with public procurement laws, streamline operations, and reduce the likelihood of further administrative errors that have historically plagued the facility. In addition to the financial concerns, the PAC Chairperson expressed alarm regarding reports of declining service standards at the hospital. She emphasized that maintaining high-quality patient care is essential for building and sustaining public confidence in the institution. The committee’s intervention aims to ensure that the UGMC restores its reputation as a premier medical center by addressing both its internal governance issues and the overall quality of its healthcare delivery for the benefit of the Ghanaian public.

Asogli chiefs endorse Ghana Medical Trust Fund for chronic care
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Asogli chiefs endorse Ghana Medical Trust Fund for chronic care

Leaders of the Asogli State in Ho have formally declared their support for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), commonly known as "Mahama Cares," following a meeting with the fund’s administration. The endorsement was delivered during a sensitization tour intended to educate the public on the fund’s mission to provide financial assistance for patients suffering from chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The fund is designed to complement the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) by covering high-cost specialized treatments that are currently outside standard insurance coverage. During the engagement, GMTF Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku highlighted President John Mahama’s commitment to easing the financial burdens on Ghanaians facing life-threatening health conditions. She explained that the fund focuses on providing relief for those who cannot afford the steep costs associated with long-term medical care. Darko-Opoku reported that the GMTF is making significant progress in operationalizing its systems and enhancing healthcare infrastructure for critical services, which includes support for the training of health professionals to improve specialized care delivery. Representing the Asogli State, Togbe Kasa III praised the initiative's potential to improve access to healthcare but emphasized the necessity of absolute transparency. The chiefs cautioned that for the fund to be truly effective, its resources must be managed with accountability to ensure they benefit the public rather than being lost to mismanagement. They stressed that the success of "Mahama Cares" depends on the resources being used strictly for their intended purpose: providing essential medical care to the vulnerable. The GMTF’s current outreach efforts are aimed at encouraging early disease detection and treatment while ensuring that communities have accurate information about how to access support. By addressing the gaps left by the NHIS, the initiative seeks to create a more comprehensive safety net for citizens. Healthcare leaders have noted that the successful implementation of the fund could mark a significant shift in how Ghana manages the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, provided the administrative safeguards requested by traditional authorities are strictly upheld.

Health Facilities Regulatory Agency warns public to verify licenses
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Health Facilities Regulatory Agency warns public to verify licenses

The Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) has issued a directive to the Ghanaian public to verify the licensing status of health facilities before seeking medical treatment. This warning aims to mitigate the risks associated with the patronage of facilities operating with expired licenses or providing unapproved medical services. According to the agency, ensuring that a facility is duly authorized is a critical step in safeguarding patient health and safety.\n\nProf. Vida Nyagre Yakong, the Deputy Registrar of HeFRA, emphasized that all health facilities are legally mandated to display their valid HeFRA licenses and stickers in prominent, visible locations. This requirement allows patients to confirm the regulatory status of a facility immediately upon entry. Prof. Yakong noted that a visible license serves as a guarantee that the facility has met the necessary standards and is authorized to provide specific medical services to the public.\n\nIn addition to checking for displayed documentation, patients are encouraged to exercise their right to inquire about a facility’s regulatory standing. HeFRA clarified that individuals have the right to ask for proof of licensing and to confirm whether the services they are receiving are within the scope of the facility’s approved operations. This proactive approach by the public is seen as a vital layer of protection against substandard healthcare practices and the proliferation of unlicensed clinics across the country.\n\nThe agency’s call for public vigilance comes as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure compliance within the healthcare sector. By making licensing status a priority for patients, HeFRA seeks to hold facility operators accountable to national health standards. The agency remains the primary body responsible for monitoring and regulating health facilities in Ghana, striving to ensure that all citizens have access to safe and quality medical care.

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare commissions CHPS compound at Kokoago
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Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare commissions CHPS compound at Kokoago

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Member of Parliament for Techiman North, has officially inaugurated an ultra-modern Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound in Kokoago. The facility is designed to bridge the healthcare gap for residents who previously faced significant challenges in accessing basic medical services. By bringing healthcare closer to the doorstep of the people, the project aims to reduce maternal mortality rates and ensure timely medical intervention for the community and its surrounding areas. The newly commissioned health center is equipped with modern infrastructure to meet the primary healthcare needs of the Kokoago community. A critical addition to the facility is a mechanized water system, which ensures a consistent and hygienic water supply for both medical procedures and general sanitation. This infrastructure is expected to alleviate the burden on residents, particularly pregnant women and the elderly, who previously had to travel long distances to receive care in other parts of the district. During the commissioning ceremony, which was attended by local officials and traditional leaders, the Member of Parliament emphasized her commitment to improving health outcomes in the constituency. Community leaders expressed their gratitude for the project, noting that the absence of a nearby health facility had long been a source of distress. They highlighted that the proximity of the new CHPS compound would prove life-saving during medical emergencies, especially for expectant mothers who often struggled to reach larger hospitals in time. The opening of the Kokoago CHPS compound represents a broader effort to enhance primary healthcare delivery in the Techiman North District. Beyond immediate medical services, the project is viewed as a vital foundation for public health education and preventative care. Local authorities have urged the residents to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance to serve the community for many years to come.

GEXIM Bank donates GH₵200,000 equipment to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital
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GEXIM Bank donates GH₵200,000 equipment to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital

The Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM) has donated medical equipment valued at approximately GH 200,000 to the Department of Child Health at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). The donation, presented on October 13, 2025, forms a key part of the bank’s 10th anniversary celebrations and its corporate social responsibility mandate. The facility serves as a critical referral center for pediatric cases across Ghana and the wider West African sub-region, making the enhancement of its clinical tools a priority for the bank. The medical equipment delivered includes essential patient monitors and defibrillators, which are vital for the management of children with serious health conditions. Dr. Abena Nyarkoa Asomaning, GEXIM’s Head of Sustainability and Strategic Impact, stated during the presentation that the bank is committed to national development beyond its primary role of financing export businesses. She noted that supporting the healthcare sector is a fundamental pillar of the bank’s community impact strategy. In addition to the physical donation, GEXIM officials used the occasion to advocate for improved infrastructure within the department. Emma Nancy Mullen, Deputy Head of Legal at GEXIM, highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive refurbishment of the facility, particularly the areas dedicated to treating childhood cancer. She appealed to other financial institutions and corporate entities to collaborate in upgrading the hospital’s infrastructure to better handle the high volume of complex medical cases referred to the department. Lawrencia Akweley Turkson, a Principal Nursing Officer at the Department of Child Health, received the equipment on behalf of the hospital. She expressed profound gratitude to GEXIM, noting that the new monitors and defibrillators would significantly ease the operational pressure on staff and improve patient care outcomes. She also reinforced the call for further corporate support, emphasizing that the department requires sustained investment to maintain high standards of pediatric healthcare.

A portrait of Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, the Chief Executive of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), speaking at an event with his hands clasped. Several water bottles and a tablet are on the table before him, and the NHIS logo is watermarked in the bottom right corner.
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NHIA urges Parliament to amend Act 852 to support Free Primary Healthcare

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has called on Parliament to amend the National Health Insurance Act, 2012 (Act 852) to provide a firm legal foundation for the Free Primary Healthcare initiative. This legislative push aims to integrate population-based payment systems and strengthen the authority's ability to manage health financing effectively. The Free Primary Healthcare policy, launched by President John Mahama on April 15, 2026, is designed to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for essential medical services at various points of care, including community pharmacies and mobile health kiosks. A central component of the requested reforms is the establishment of an Anti-Fraud and Illegal Payments Directorate. According to Dr. Kwesi Djokoto, the NHIA’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations, this new body is necessary to combat unauthorized out-of-pocket charges frequently imposed on patients by some healthcare providers under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). By creating a dedicated directorate, the NHIA intends to enhance its capacity to detect irregularities in billing and claims submissions, ensuring the scheme remains sustainable and that providers are held accountable for misconduct. During a recent engagement with Parliament’s Health Committee, Dr. Djokoto emphasized that while the NHIA has made significant strides in digital infrastructure—including electronic claims processing—technology alone is insufficient. He argued that these digital tools must be backed by a robust legal framework that includes stiffer sanctions for fraudulent activities. The proposed amendments to Act 852 would empower the authority to better police the system and reduce claims fraud, which continues to pose a risk to the efficiency of the national health insurance fund. The NHIA’s appeal highlights a strategic shift toward digitisation and more rigorous oversight to safeguard public health funds. If approved, the legal updates will facilitate the rollout of more efficient payment models and ensure that the Free Primary Healthcare initiative achieves its goal of universal access. By addressing both the financial logistics of the scheme and the legal loopholes exploited by some providers, the NHIA aims to secure the long-term viability of healthcare delivery for all Ghanaians.

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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh urges shift in global health policy at Berlin summit

Ghana’s Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has called for a fundamental shift in the design of international health frameworks, urging global stakeholders to develop policies ‘with countries, rather than for them.’ Speaking at the World Health Summit in Berlin, the Minister emphasized that true global health security can only be achieved through genuine collaboration, solidarity, and national ownership of healthcare priorities. He argued that the era of imposing external decisions on sovereign nations must end to ensure more effective health outcomes. Akandoh noted that the prevailing model of international decision-making often fails to account for the unique contexts and local needs of individual nations, leading to gaps in implementation and impact. By advocating for a move toward solidarity, the Minister suggested that the global community could foster a more resilient health ecosystem. This approach, he argued, ensures that every nation feels a sense of responsibility and partnership in addressing shared health challenges rather than merely acting as a recipient of directives. The Minister’s address directly aligned with President John Mahama’s ‘Accra Reset’ agenda, which focuses on repositioning Ghana as a leader in self-sustaining development and local empowerment. Akandoh highlighted Ghana’s own domestic initiatives as practical examples of this vision, specifically referencing the government’s commitment to Free Primary Healthcare and the MahamaCares program. These initiatives are intended to strengthen the national healthcare system from the ground up, ensuring services are accessible and equitable for all citizens. In his concluding remarks, Akandoh reiterated that the success of global health initiatives is intrinsically linked to the strength of local systems. He called on international partners to support these domestic efforts through technical cooperation and resource sharing that empowers local authorities rather than dictating terms. The Minister's participation in the Berlin summit underscores Ghana's active role in shaping international health discourse under the current administration’s vision for more inclusive and effective global health governance.

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Graphic Online advocates for mental health transparency in marriage

The critical connection between mental health and marital stability has come to the forefront of national health discussions, highlighting how emotional well-being serves as the foundation for successful relationships. Experts suggest that many recurring issues within marriages are not merely the result of surface-level disagreements but are often symptoms of unresolved emotional disconnections and underlying mental health challenges. As the world observes Mental Health Day, there is a growing call for individuals to treat their psychological health with the same importance as their physical health when preparing for domestic life. A central component of this advocacy is the recommendation for couples to seek professional counseling long before they commit to marriage. This proactive approach is designed to help partners navigate their emotional histories and identify potential triggers that could disrupt their future union. Transparency is emphasized as a vital necessity; individuals are encouraged to be open about their mental health histories and any ongoing challenges they face. By removing the stigma associated with these discussions, couples can build a relationship based on honesty and mutual support rather than hidden struggles. Beyond individual responsibility, the quality of guidance provided to couples is also being addressed. There is an urgent appeal for better training for marriage counselors across the country to ensure they are well-versed in mental health issues and modern psychological practices. The shift toward more comprehensive, evidence-based education is seen as essential for providing couples with the tools they need to sustain a thriving marriage. Various entities, including religious organizations and community groups, are being urged to play a more active role in promoting mental health awareness as part of their marital support programs. Ultimately, a healthy marriage is described as a continuous investment that requires intentional self-improvement and a mutual commitment to emotional wellness. By prioritizing mental health and utilizing professional resources, couples can create more resilient households. The broader goal is to foster a society where the emotional health of the family unit is supported by both personal transparency and robust institutional resources, leading to more stable and fulfilling relationship outcomes.

Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Ranking Member on the Health Committee of Parliament, is pictured speaking at a podium. He is wearing a traditional blue and white striped fugu and eyeglasses while addressing an audience at a health-related summit on the margins of an African Union event.
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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh targets 20% annual cut in maternal deaths

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced that Ghana aims to achieve a 20% annual reduction in maternal mortality rates. Speaking at the World Health Summit in Berlin, the Minister introduced the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health Emergency Response (PRIMER) as the primary vehicle for achieving this target. The initiative represents a strategic shift toward proactive emergency management for pregnant women and new mothers across the country. The PRIMER program, which was officially launched on September 16, 2026, is designed to strengthen emergency response systems and ensure that medical care is provided in a timely manner. According to the Minister, the government’s focus is on preventing avoidable deaths during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. By bolstering the capacity of health facilities to handle complications, the initiative seeks to provide a safety net for women who previously faced barriers to emergency care. During his address in Berlin, Mr. Akandoh emphasized that financial investment alone is insufficient to solve the maternal health crisis. He argued that achieving a significant and sustained reduction in deaths requires strong political leadership and a culture of accountability within the healthcare sector. He noted that robust health systems must be backed by a commitment from all levels of government to ensure that resources are utilized effectively and that standards of care are maintained. The 20% annual reduction goal is part of a broader national commitment to improve maternal health services and align with international health standards. The Minister’s presentation at the global summit highlights Ghana's attempt to position itself as a leader in healthcare innovation within the sub-region. As the initiative rolls out, the Ministry of Health is expected to implement rigorous monitoring mechanisms to track progress toward the 20% target and address gaps in rural and underserved communities.

Femi Asante discusses personal impact of husband’s stroke
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Femi Asante discusses personal impact of husband’s stroke

Lawyer and entrepreneur Femi Asante has opened up about the profound lifestyle changes she experienced following the sudden illness of her husband, Nana Asante Bediatuo. Speaking in a recent interview, Asante detailed the emotional and logistical shifts required to navigate her husband’s recovery after he suffered a stroke while in the United States. The medical emergency necessitated an immediate and total restructuring of her personal and professional life. The health incident unfolded shortly after Asante had arrived in London, compelling her to travel immediately to New York to be by her husband's side. Nana Asante Bediatuo, who served as the Executive Secretary to former President Nana Akufo-Addo, was receiving care in New York when the situation arose. This sudden transition from her planned activities in the United Kingdom to the medical environment in the U.S. marked the beginning of a significant shift in her daily priorities and commitments. During her appearance on "The Peswa" podcast, Asante explained how the emergency forced her to redefine her daily routine and personal goals. She shared that the experience was life-altering, as she had to balance her own professional responsibilities as a lawyer and business owner with the new demands of her husband's health needs. The discussion highlighted the resilience required to manage significant family health developments while maintaining her career. While the specifics of the recovery process remain a private matter for the family, Asante’s public reflections offer insight into the challenges faced by families managing serious health conditions. Her account emphasizes the importance of flexibility and the often-sudden nature of life-altering health events. The story serves as a testament to the impact such medical emergencies have on the lives of both the individuals involved and their primary support systems.