Ghana Stakeholders Push for National Ban on Partially Hydrogenated Oils to Curb Cardiovascular Disease

Stakeholders in Ghana’s health sector have formally called for the implementation of a ban on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) to safeguard the nation’s cardiovascular health. At a high-level forum held in Accra, the National TFA Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group was tasked with drafting the necessary concept notes and legal documents to enforce this ban. This initiative is a critical component of the National Trans Fat Elimination Strategy (2025–2030), which aims to remove industrially produced trans fatty acids (TFAs) from the Ghanaian food supply, aligning with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) REPLACE Action Framework.

The forum, themed "From Strategy to Action: Accelerate the Implementation of Ghana’s National TFA Strategy to Protect Heart Health," was organized by the Institute of Leadership and Development (INSLA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. Participants emphasized that eliminating PHOs—the primary source of artificial trans fats—requires immediate and coordinated action across multiple sectors. Central to this effort is a partnership with the Ghana Standards Authority to establish and enforce strict food standards that limit the presence of these harmful fats in commercially produced foods.

Dr. Hafez Adam Taher of the Ministry of Health underscored the urgency of the situation, noting that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for approximately 43% of all deaths in Ghana, according to WHO data. He called for a broad consensus among stakeholders to ensure the 2025–2030 strategy is effectively integrated into the national health agenda. Mr. Benjamin Anabila, Executive Director of INSLA, further highlighted the strategy’s importance in mitigating the rise of NCDs linked to unhealthy dietary practices, stressing that the transition from policy to tangible action is vital for public safety.

Beyond legislative bans, the stakeholders recommended a comprehensive approach that includes building laboratory capacity to accurately test and monitor TFA levels in food products. There is also a significant focus on public education and awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the health hazards associated with PHO consumption. To ensure a smooth transition, the working group plans to engage directly with food industry players to reformulate products, ensuring that healthier alternatives replace industrially produced trans fats without compromising food quality or availability.