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.

University of Ghana Food Scientist Issues Microwaving Safety Warnings as Research Identifies Key Factors Behind Mosquito Attraction
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University of Ghana Food Scientist Issues Microwaving Safety Warnings as Research Identifies Key Factors Behind Mosquito Attraction

Recent health and science updates emphasize the importance of understanding daily environmental and biological factors to maintain personal well-being. From the kitchen to the outdoors, experts are shedding light on how common practices and physical traits impact health outcomes in Ghana. Dr. Joycelyn Quansah, a prominent food scientist at the University of Ghana, has provided critical guidance on food safety and preservation, while emerging scientific insights explain the persistent nuisance of mosquito bites, revealing why some individuals are more susceptible than others. These findings highlight the intersection of biological science and household safety in everyday life. Addressing food preparation, Dr. Quansah highlighted that while microwaving is a generally safe and efficient method for heating food, it requires careful execution to avoid significant health risks. She warned that microwave energy often heats food unevenly, leaving it hot on the surface while remaining cold internally. These "cold spots" are dangerous because they can allow harmful microorganisms to survive the heating process, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses. To mitigate this, she advised ensuring that food is heated thoroughly and stirred where possible. Furthermore, she cautioned against the use of aluminium foil for certain foods, noting that potential chemical transfers could occur, which may have health implications. Beyond modern appliance use, Dr. Quansah advocated for the continued use of traditional food preservation techniques as a vital means to reduce waste, particularly in settings where refrigeration may be limited. Methods such as drying, smoking, and fermentation remain highly effective strategies for keeping food safe and nutritious over longer periods. These traditional practices not only help in waste reduction but also preserve the cultural heritage of Ghanaian food science while addressing practical challenges in national food security and storage. Turning to outdoor health concerns, science is providing clearer answers as to why mosquitoes seem to target specific individuals while ignoring others. Research identifies three primary biological markers that attract these insects: body heat, body odor, and carbon dioxide emissions. Individuals with higher body temperatures or those who exhale more carbon dioxide—such as those who are physically active or have higher metabolic rates—are significantly more noticeable to mosquitoes. Additionally, specific chemical compositions in an individual's body odor can serve as a potent draw, making some people natural "mosquito magnets." Understanding these diverse health factors—from the proper way to reheat a meal to the biological reasons behind insect attraction—allows Ghanaians to take proactive steps in their daily lives. Whether by adopting more rigorous food handling practices or being mindful of the physical factors that attract disease-carrying insects, these scientific insights provide a foundation for improved public health. As experts like Dr. Quansah continue to share their knowledge, the integration of traditional wisdom with modern scientific evidence remains key to navigating everyday health challenges in Ghana.

Ghana Medical Trust Fund and Atlantic Lifesciences Explore Local Production of Cancer and Heart Medicines
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Ghana Medical Trust Fund and Atlantic Lifesciences Explore Local Production of Cancer and Heart Medicines

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) has initiated strategic discussions with Atlantic Lifesciences Limited and the PharmaNova Group to establish local manufacturing for essential medicines targeting chronic conditions, such as cancer and heart disease. This initiative is designed to significantly reduce Ghana's dependence on expensive imported pharmaceuticals, which often place a heavy financial burden on patients and the national health system. During a recent visit to Atlantic Lifesciences’ facilities, GMTF Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku emphasized that exploring such collaborations is vital for securing a sustainable and affordable supply of life-saving drugs for the Ghanaian populace. The potential partnership aligns with Ghana’s broader national goals of bolstering local pharmaceutical production and improving overall healthcare resilience. By focusing on critical medications for chronic illnesses, the initiative seeks to fill existing gaps in the healthcare system where cost and availability frequently hinder patient outcomes. Dhanankay Tripathi, CEO of Atlantic Lifesciences, highlighted the necessity of these targeted solutions, noting that local production can more effectively address specific domestic healthcare deficits while ensuring that medications are tailored to the needs of the population. The involvement of the PharmaNova Group further strengthens the technical and production capacity required to manufacture complex drug formulations locally. Ultimately, the GMTF aims to expand access to affordable, life-saving medications for patients managing long-term health challenges. As chronic diseases often require prolonged and costly treatment cycles, the shift toward domestic manufacturing represents a proactive step in making healthcare more accessible and protecting families from catastrophic health expenditures. Moving forward, the success of this collaboration could serve as a blueprint for expanding local production into other therapeutic areas, strengthening Ghana's position as a burgeoning hub for pharmaceutical excellence in the West African sub-region.

Global Mercy Ship to Provide Over 2,600 Free Surgeries During 10-Month Mission in Ghana
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Global Mercy Ship to Provide Over 2,600 Free Surgeries During 10-Month Mission in Ghana

Ghana is set to receive a significant boost to its healthcare delivery system with the return of the "Global Mercy," a state-of-the-art hospital ship operated by the international charity Mercy Ships. During an anticipated 10-month stay, the vessel will provide specialized medical interventions at no cost to thousands of Ghanaians. This initiative, supported by the administration of President John Mahama, aims to address the surgical backlog and provide critical care to underserved populations across the country. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has detailed the ambitious scope of the mission, stating that the Global Mercy expects to perform between 1,950 and 2,600 free surgeries. In addition to these complex procedures, the medical team will provide between 1,610 and 2,145 specialized dental treatments. These services are designed to alleviate the burden on local hospitals and offer life-changing operations to patients who might otherwise lack the financial means or access to such specialized care. Beyond immediate clinical outcomes, the mission emphasizes long-term capacity building for Ghana's medical workforce. Mercy Ships CEO Michelle White underscored that the program includes comprehensive education and training modules for local health professionals. By collaborating closely with the Ministry of Health, the organization seeks to enhance the technical skills of Ghanaian doctors, nurses, and technicians, ensuring that the impact of the ship's visit extends well beyond its departure. This collaboration represents a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening Ghana’s overall healthcare infrastructure. As the Global Mercy prepares for its arrival, the government and Mercy Ships are finalizing logistical arrangements to ensure the most vulnerable citizens are identified and prioritized for treatment. This mission marks a continued commitment to improving public health outcomes and fostering international cooperation in the medical sector.

55-Year-Old Linda Ampofo Welcomes Triplets After 25-Year Journey in Ashanti Region
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55-Year-Old Linda Ampofo Welcomes Triplets After 25-Year Journey in Ashanti Region

In a remarkable event that has captured the hearts of many in the Ashanti Region, 55-year-old Linda Ampofo has given birth to triplets following twenty-five years of marriage without children. This rare occurrence, which medical professionals describe as an exceptional case due to the mother’s age, culminated in a successful delivery on January 13, 2026. Mrs. Ampofo and her husband, who reside in Brofoyedru, had faced decades of emotional and physical challenges, including multiple miscarriages and the growing societal pressure often associated with infertility. Throughout this period, the couple remained steadfast in their faith, supported heavily by their local religious community. As a devoted member of The Church of Pentecost, Mrs. Ampofo’s story has been characterized as a miracle by both her family and church leadership. The local pastor noted that her perseverance served as a beacon of hope for other couples within the congregation who are facing similar fertility struggles. The church provided significant spiritual and emotional guidance during the most difficult years of their journey, encouraging the couple to maintain hope despite the biological odds. Following the successful birth and period of recovery, a naming ceremony was held on July 6, 2026, to officially welcome the infants into the community. This celebration not only honored the three new lives but also served as a powerful testimony to the congregation, emphasizing the strength of faith and the importance of communal support during times of personal hardship. Medical experts have pointed out that while such births are rare at the age of 55, they highlight the intersection of biological resilience and the importance of prenatal monitoring. The story of Linda Ampofo has since transcended her local community, becoming a point of inspiration across the country. It underscores a broader social narrative in Ghana regarding the importance of empathy for couples dealing with childlessness and serves as a reminder of the possibilities that can emerge even after decades of waiting.

Dr Fred Adomako-Boateng — Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services
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Health Ministry and Stakeholders Intensify Efforts to Combat Maternal Mortality and Breast Cancer in Ashanti Region

Ghana's health sector is witnessing a renewed push to address critical gaps in women’s healthcare, specifically targeting maternal mortality and breast cancer outcomes. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, the Deputy Minister of Health, has called for a multisectoral approach to tackle the country’s maternal mortality rate, which she described as the nation's worst-performing health index. Speaking in Kumasi during a visit for the Maternal Mortality Action and Response Programme (MMARP), Dr. Ayensu-Danquah revealed that approximately 945 institutional deaths were reported in 2025. She emphasized that reducing these figures requires more than just the efforts of the Health Ministry; it demands a national roadmap that addresses gaps in primary care and the early recognition of high-risk pregnancies. Complementing these government efforts, Breast Care International, in collaboration with Jhpiego, has launched a targeted project in the Ashanti Region to improve breast cancer detection and treatment navigation. Moving beyond mere screening, this initiative focuses on the critical period after a lesion is detected. The program aims to guide women through the complexities of the healthcare system, ensuring they receive necessary follow-up care and treatment. By engaging community leaders and providing education on self-examinations, the project seeks to eliminate the misconceptions that often lead to late-stage presentations and avoidable deaths. The challenges within the referral system remain a significant hurdle for healthcare delivery in the region. Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services, noted that a substantial number of deaths recorded at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) involve patients referred from other facilities. This highlights a systemic need to improve capacity at the primary and district levels to manage emergencies effectively before they escalate. The dual focus on maternal health and cancer navigation underscores a broader strategy to ensure that women do not just enter the health system, but are successfully supported through to recovery. As the government and its partners work toward these goals, the focus remains on closing the gap between diagnosis and treatment. The MMARP's National Roadmap for Reducing Maternal Mortality and the community-based navigation projects for cancer represent a two-pronged attack on the barriers preventing women from accessing quality care. Moving forward, stakeholders believe that enhanced stakeholder collaboration and improved institutional referrals will be the cornerstones of reducing preventable deaths among women across Ghana.

George Opare Addo (inset), Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, addressing the forum. Picture: ERNEST KODZI
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Minister Opare-Addo and YEA CEO Malik Basintale Warn of Drug Abuse and Digital Privacy Risks at National Youth Forum

The National Youth Forum held in Accra has served as a critical platform for government officials to address escalating social and health threats facing young Ghanaians. The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare-Addo, used the occasion to declare drug abuse a burgeoning national crisis, citing its devastating impact on families and the broader social fabric. Alongside these health concerns, Malik Basintale, Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), raised alarms regarding digital safety, specifically advising the youth to refrain from recording intimate moments that could lead to irreparable reputational damage through social media leaks and unauthorized circulation. Minister Opare-Addo highlighted the emergence of dangerous new substances, specifically mentioning a drug known as "Colus," which has increasingly found its way into schools and local communities. He emphasized that the government, under the administration of President John Mahama, is committed to leading advocacy efforts but stressed that the battle against addiction requires a collective approach involving families, educational institutions, and the youth themselves. By encouraging active participation in policymaking and direct feedback on government initiatives, the Minister hopes to create a more resilient support system for those vulnerable to substance abuse. Adding to the discourse on youth welfare, Malik Basintale addressed the contemporary challenge of digital footprints and the risks associated with the age of social media. He cautioned attendees against the habit of documenting private, intimate encounters, noting that while previous generations maintained their privacy through discretion, modern digital tools have made young people far more susceptible to blackmail and public shaming. Basintale urged the youth to exercise extreme caution in an era where digital content can be shared instantly and without consent, emphasizing that private lives should remain strictly private to protect future career prospects and personal dignity. Beyond social and health warnings, the forum touched on the economic drivers of youth development. The Youth Employment Agency announced plans to roll out new employment programs specifically tailored for graduates to mitigate the frustrations that often lead to social vices and substance dependency. By providing viable economic alternatives, the government aims to bridge the gap between education and employment. The session concluded with a unified call for young Ghanaians to remain vigilant and proactive in securing their health, digital privacy, and economic well-being as the nation moves forward.

Dr Pennante Bruce-Vanderpuije
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Ghana Reports Significant Decline in Mining Fatalities Amid Rising Health Concerns Over Pesticide and Microplastic Exposure

Ghana's occupational and environmental health landscape is undergoing a critical shift, marked by a significant 57% reduction in mining-related fatalities alongside growing warnings regarding toxic exposure in other sectors. In 2025, the mining industry recorded three deaths, a sharp drop from the seven fatalities reported in 2024. While the Ghana Chamber of Mines credits this improvement to enhanced training and emergency preparedness, leadership remains cautious. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Chamber, emphasized that "three deaths are still too many," noting that the industry still navigated 34 serious accidents and 210 first aid cases throughout the year. The sector is now doubling down on safety competitions and student training at the University of Mines and Technology to move closer to a goal of zero fatalities. While industrial safety shows signs of progress, health experts are sounding alarms over the hidden dangers of pesticide exposure in the agricultural sector. Mr. John Arko Mensah, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Public Health, has warned that improper pesticide application is directly linked to chronic respiratory illnesses and cancer. With air pollution contributing to approximately 28,000 deaths annually in Ghana, the lack of protective gear among farmers has become a public health priority. Farmers have reported suffering from various health complications and are calling for government-led education and the provision of essential safety equipment to mitigate these risks. The health hazards extend further to the nation's food supply, where a six-year study by the CSIR-Water Research Institute (CSIR-WRI) has identified alarming levels of microplastics in local fish. Dr. Pennante Naa Ayikailey Bruce-Vanderpuije reported that Ghanaian children are exposed to roughly 209 microplastic particles per year, while consumers of wild freshwater fish face exposure to nearly 4,800 particles. This pollution, driven by agricultural runoff, urban sewage, and plastic waste, has pushed microplastic concentrations in some coastal communities well beyond international safety limits, particularly within the gills and guts of the fish. These findings collectively underscore the urgent need for comprehensive policy intervention and infrastructure development across Ghana. From legislating plastic waste management to supporting farmers with protective equipment and maintaining rigorous mining safety standards, the path forward requires a multi-sectoral approach. Experts stress that while immediate behavioral changes—such as adopting better spraying practices and protecting aquatic environments—are vital, sustainable improvements in the nation's public health will depend on coordinated government initiatives to manage environmental pollution and industrial hazards effectively.

West African Health Systems Face Critical Sanitation Gaps as DRC Ebola Outbreak Scales Exponentially
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West African Health Systems Face Critical Sanitation Gaps as DRC Ebola Outbreak Scales Exponentially

Health systems across West and Central Africa are facing severe strain as a new assessment by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF reveals critical infrastructure gaps in Ghana and Nigeria, even as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) battles an "exponential" Ebola outbreak. In Ghana, only 16% of health facilities currently meet basic sanitation standards, a figure that trails significantly behind the global average of 40%. Simultaneously, the Ebola crisis in the DRC has claimed over 2,500 lives, with United Nations officials warning that the epidemic is moving faster than response efforts can manage due to weak infrastructure and regional insecurity. The WHO and UNICEF assessment highlights a systemic failure to provide the basic services necessary for safe and dignified medical care. While 65% of Ghanaian facilities have access to basic water, sanitation and hygiene remain major hurdles, with only 54% meeting hygiene standards. The situation is even more critical in Nigeria, where a staggering 19 out of every 20 health facilities fall short of basic medical waste management standards. In other regional nations such as Burkina Faso and Mali, sanitation coverage is as low as 7%. These deficiencies in waste management and hygiene pose severe risks to both patients and healthcare workers, potentially turning clinics into centers for disease transmission. In the DRC, the current Ebola outbreak has become the largest in the country's history, spreading rapidly across six provinces. UN Senior Ebola Coordinator Julien Harneis reports that the virus is growing "faster and wider," with half of the total deaths recorded in just the last 20 days. Containment efforts have been severely hindered by ongoing conflict and over 260 recorded attacks on health workers in the past six months. Furthermore, the response is complicated by the Bundibugyo virus strain; while there is no approved treatment yet, the WHO plans to deliver 70,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine to provide some measure of protection while clinical trials continue. The convergence of these health crises underscores the urgent need for enhanced international support and systemic domestic investment. Mr. Harneis has emphasized that without a significant influx of funding and specialized staffing, the Ebola epidemic risks spreading to neighboring countries. Likewise, the data from Ghana and Nigeria serves as a call to action for the government, led by President John Mahama, to prioritize health infrastructure. Addressing these sanitation and waste management gaps is essential for West Africa to meet global service standards and ensure the long-term safety and resilience of its healthcare systems.

Prof Samuel Kaba Akoriyea (Seated middle), Director-General, Ghana Health Service, with Dr Caroline Reindorf Amissah (seated 2nd from right), Deputy Director-General, Ghana Health Service; Dr Hafiz Adam Taher (seated right), Director, Technical Coordination, of the Ministry of Health; Dr Sally-Ann Ohene (seated 2nd from left), Health Emergencies Team Lead, World Health Organisation, and other guests after the meeting. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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Ghana Health Authorities Tackle GH¢400m Legal Claims While Strengthening National Emergency Preparedness

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Ministry of Health are moving to fortify the nation’s healthcare framework by addressing a surge in medical-legal claims and enhancing emergency response systems. Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, have both emphasized that Ghana must prioritize collaboration and internal accountability to ensure a resilient health sector. This dual focus comes at a critical time as the country seeks to learn from past health crises while professionalizing its clinical delivery to avoid costly legal disputes. A significant challenge facing the GHS is a staggering GH¢400 million in medical-legal claims accumulated between 2023 and 2025. During this three-year period, 173 cases were reported involving allegations of medical negligence and treatment errors. Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah has highlighted that a growing awareness of patient rights has led to increased legal inquiries. To mitigate these risks, the GHS is implementing legal training for its officers and advocating for public education on early healthcare-seeking behaviors to prevent the complications that often lead to these disputes. Simultaneously, health leaders are intensifying efforts to bolster Ghana’s defenses against public health threats. Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea recently advocated for deeper coordination between state institutions and stakeholders during a visit to the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC). He noted that past experiences, such as managing meningitis outbreaks and post-flood cholera prevention, prove that clear responsibilities are essential for effective responses. Supporting this mission, Dr. Sally-Ann Ohene of the World Health Organization (WHO) called for a more robust incident management system to ensure the PHEOC can operate at maximum efficiency during future crises. On the regional stage, Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening disease surveillance and laboratory systems during a meeting of the Regional Technical Advisory Committee in Accra. He emphasized that regional cooperation across Africa is vital, especially following the lessons of the COVID-19 and Ebola pandemics. By focusing on the local production of essential medicines and vaccines, the Ministry aims to reduce external dependencies and secure the health of the Ghanaian people. These combined efforts represent a comprehensive strategy to improve both the quality of care and the nation’s readiness for any impending health emergencies.

Zoomlion and Local Authorities Launch Massive Post-Flood Disinfection Across Greater Accra and Western Regions
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Zoomlion and Local Authorities Launch Massive Post-Flood Disinfection Across Greater Accra and Western Regions

Zoomlion Ghana Limited has launched a comprehensive disinfection and fumigation campaign across the Greater Accra and Western Regions to mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks following recent heavy flooding. The initiative, which covers dozens of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), is designed to neutralize pathogens and disease-causing microorganisms that thrive in the aftermath of flood events. By targeting public spaces, markets, and sanitary facilities, the exercise seeks to protect residents from potential epidemics such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria. This self-funded Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) effort aims to support local sanitation infrastructure during a period of heightened environmental vulnerability. In the Greater Accra Region, the campaign spans 29 MMDAs and follows significant flooding that occurred on June 29. Richard Donkor, the Municipal Environmental Health Officer for Ayawaso North, has urged the public to take post-flood disinfection seriously, warning that floodwaters are often contaminated with waste from septic tanks, public toilets, and dumping sites. Donkor emphasized that flood runoff is far more hazardous than ordinary wastewater, often carrying harmful pathogens directly into residential areas. While acknowledging that some disinfection efforts began later than ideal, he noted that the partnership between local authorities, the Presidency, and Zoomlion is a critical safeguard for community health. Simultaneously, Zoomlion has extended its reach to the Western Region, initiating a regional fumigation exercise across all 14 MMDAs. Starting in the Sekondi-Takoradi and Effia-Kwesimintsim areas, the program specifically targets stagnant water and high-traffic public spaces to prevent mosquito breeding and bacterial spread. Patrick Akorful, the Western Regional Manager for Zoomlion, highlighted the urgency of these interventions and called for full public cooperation to ensure the effectiveness of the free service. Residents and local officials have expressed relief and gratitude for the intervention, citing it as an essential layer of protection for public health safety following the rains. As the disinfection teams continue their work through various communities, health experts stress that these exercises must be paired with sustained collective responsibility. Beyond the immediate fumigation efforts, maintaining consistent sanitation practices and properly managing household waste remain essential for long-term prevention. The ongoing collaboration between the private sector and local government reflects a strategic approach to managing the health implications of climate-related events, ensuring that the impact of seasonal flooding does not escalate into a public health crisis.

Ghana and China Strengthen Ties to Drive AI Innovation and Local Manufacturing in West African Healthcare
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Ghana and China Strengthen Ties to Drive AI Innovation and Local Manufacturing in West African Healthcare

The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Health, has called for deepened cooperation with China and the wider West African sub-region to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced medical technologies into the national healthcare framework. Speaking at the opening of the 2026 China-West Africa Medical and Health Industry Expo and AI Deployment Summit in Accra, Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah underscored the government's commitment to leveraging digital innovation to improve patient outcomes and system efficiency. The three-day event, organized by the Health Community of West Africa Association (HCOWAA), serves as a strategic platform for over 300 stakeholders, including investors, researchers, and technology manufacturers, to explore sustainable healthcare solutions and regional development. Central to the government's agenda is the deployment of technologies that are not only cutting-edge but also clinically validated and affordable for the Ghanaian context. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah emphasized that while AI holds immense potential for diagnostics and healthcare management—particularly in underserved regions—it must be tailored to support, rather than replace, the human connection essential to medical practice. The Ministry’s priorities include enhancing primary healthcare and early disease detection, specifically targeting the high prevalence of non-communicable diseases like hypertension and diabetes. By collaborating with Chinese partners, Ghana aims to ensure that these technological advancements are secure and compatible with existing infrastructure. Beyond the adoption of new tools, the summit highlights a broader vision to transition West Africa from a consumer of medical technology to a proactive producer. The government is advocating for local manufacturing and capacity building to bolster regional health security and reduce reliance on imports. By fostering partnerships between Ghanaian healthcare institutions and Chinese technology firms, the initiative seeks to establish Ghana as a leading healthcare and innovation hub within the West African sub-region. This shift is expected to create significant investment opportunities while ensuring that the region remains resilient against future health challenges through self-reliance in medical supplies and digital health infrastructure. The expo, themed 'Deepening AI Deployment, Empowering Health in West Africa, Reshaping the Development Landscape,' represents a significant step toward a modernized, tech-driven health sector. As participants engage in knowledge sharing and project cooperation, the focus remains on ensuring that innovation does not create barriers to access but rather bridges the gap in quality care. The successful implementation of these AI-driven strategies and bilateral partnerships is poised to redefine the healthcare landscape in West Africa, making high-quality medical services more accessible and efficient for all citizens.

FDA records GH¢70m surplus, warns of laboratory equipment challenges
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Ghana FDA Reports GH 70 Million Surplus as Authorities Intensify Food Safety Enforcement Nationwide

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has announced a significant financial surplus of GH 70 million for the 2025 fiscal year, representing a 51% increase over the previous year’s GH 46 million. This financial milestone comes amid a period of heightened regulatory activity and enforcement across the country, as both national and local health officials move to protect consumers from expired and hazardous products. During the FDA’s 2025 Annual Stakeholders’ Meeting, officials highlighted a surge in product applications and market surveillance efforts designed to ensure public health safety under the current administration. In terms of operations, the FDA processed 24,446 product applications in 2025, approving 20,205. Notably, 62% of these registrations were for local products, reflecting a strategic push to support Ghanaian businesses and boost local industry. The authority’s total revenue reached GH 420 million—comprised of internally generated funds, donor support, and government subsidies—while total assets rose to GH 358 million. FDA CEO Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni credited these results to ongoing reforms, including digitalization and infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing response times and public health safety. Despite the financial growth, the FDA faces significant hurdles, including a GH 95 million revenue shortfall attributed to currency fluctuations. Deputy Director of Finance Samuel Adom-Siaw and other officials raised concerns regarding aging laboratory equipment, which poses maintenance challenges and could impact testing efficiency. Furthermore, the authority continues to battle the influx of illicit products. To counter these threats, the FDA has intensified its market surveillance, retrieving hundreds of thousands of non-compliant items and reaching over 12 million people through robust public education campaigns. Enforcement efforts have also scaled up at the district level to address immediate health risks. In the Tatale Sanguli District, the Environmental and Sanitation Unit, led by Nasigri Abukari, recently confiscated and destroyed a large quantity of expired beverages and food products from local shops. Similarly, health officers in Ho have issued an urgent warning to residents of Avakpeta following the illegal dumping of cartons of spoiled poultry. Environmental health official Lawrence Senya cautioned that while the chicken appeared frozen initially, it is unfit for consumption. These regional actions underscore a zero-tolerance policy toward traders who compromise safety standards. Moving forward, the Ministry of Health and the FDA are emphasizing the need for increased public confidence and stakeholder collaboration. Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, Desmond Boateng, stressed that regulation is a collective responsibility, urging citizens to report suspicious food practices. As the FDA seeks to upgrade its facilities and replace outdated equipment, the focus remains on maintaining a balance between supporting local industry growth and enforcing strict compliance to safeguard the health of all Ghanaians.