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.

Gov't committed to integrating traditional medicine into healthcare – Deputy Health Minister
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Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Pledges Integration of Traditional Medicine into National Healthcare System

The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has reaffirmed the government's strategic commitment to incorporating scientifically validated traditional medicine into Ghana's mainstream healthcare framework. Speaking during a high-level visit to the Center of Awareness (COA) Research and Manufacturing Company, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the administration, led by President John Mahama, views the integration of indigenous medical knowledge as a vital step toward enhancing national healthcare delivery. This policy shift aims to provide Ghanaians with a broader range of safe, effective treatment options that complement conventional medical practices. Central to this initiative is the government's Free Primary Healthcare programme, which seeks to leverage traditional medicine to combat the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. Ayensu-Danquah noted that Ghana is looking toward successful international models, such as the healthcare system in China, where traditional and modern medical practices are seamlessly combined to improve patient outcomes. By formalizing the role of traditional practitioners and products, the Ministry of Health intends to create a more inclusive and accessible system for all citizens. Supporting this vision, the CEO of COA Manufacturing Company, Mr. Samuel Ato Duncan, expressed readiness to align the sector with national health objectives. He underscored the critical importance of standardization and rigorous research in ensuring that traditional remedies meet the necessary safety profiles for mainstream use. Mr. Duncan welcomed the government's support, stating that scientific evidence remains the most crucial factor in gaining the trust of both the medical community and the general public, thereby maximizing the health benefits of indigenous treatments. As the government moves forward with these integration efforts, the focus will remain on bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern scientific methodology. This collaborative approach is expected to not only strengthen the domestic health sector but also potentially position Ghana as a regional leader in the research and manufacturing of standardized traditional medicines. The successful implementation of this policy will depend on continued investment in research and the establishment of clear regulatory pathways for traditional medical products.

World Vision Ghana and Ahafo Assemblies Partner to Reach 90% Universal WASH Coverage
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World Vision Ghana and Ahafo Assemblies Partner to Reach 90% Universal WASH Coverage

World Vision Ghana has formalized a significant partnership with the Asunafo North Municipal and Asutifi North District Assemblies in the Ahafo Region to accelerate progress toward universal water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) coverage. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the organizations have committed to a collaborative framework aimed at providing safely managed water and sanitation facilities to rural communities. The primary objective is to ensure that at least 90% of the population in these districts gains access to high-quality WASH services by the project’s conclusion, addressing a critical gap in rural health infrastructure and setting a high benchmark for regional development. To achieve these ambitious targets, the initiative will leverage the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) strategy, which focuses on behavioral change and community ownership to improve hygiene standards and eliminate open defecation. A standout feature of the agreement is the introduction of a Professional Management Model and Water Facility Insurance. These mechanisms are designed to move beyond traditional aid by providing a sustainable business and maintenance framework, ensuring that water systems do not fall into disrepair—a frequent challenge for rural infrastructure projects across the country. Under the terms of the agreement, World Vision Ghana will contribute essential technical expertise and funding resources to facilitate the construction and upgrading of facilities. The local government assemblies will play a pivotal role in community mobilization and the enforcement of sanitation bylaws, ensuring that the infrastructure is integrated into local governance structures. This dual-layered approach aims to enhance local accountability and capacity, ensuring that the benefits of the project are preserved for future generations. Leaders from the Asunafo North and Asutifi North districts have pledged their full support, emphasizing that reliable access to clean water is a fundamental pillar of public health and economic productivity. This partnership serves as a model for how non-governmental organizations and local government units can align their resources to meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 6. By integrating insurance and professionalized management into the project design, the partners are addressing the sustainability gap that often plagues rural development. As the initiative rolls out, it is expected to significantly reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases and improve the overall quality of life for residents in the Ahafo Region, potentially providing a blueprint for similar health-focused collaborations across Ghana.

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UHAS Researchers Warn of Rising Candida Resistance as 70% of Cases Resist Common Antifungals

Ghanaian health experts are warning of a significant public health threat as Candida albicans, the primary cause of yeast infections, shows alarming levels of resistance to standard treatments. Recent research from the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho reveals that approximately 70 percent of Candida isolates in the country are now resistant to fluconazole, one of the most commonly prescribed antifungal medications. This shift represents a critical challenge for the nation's healthcare system, as infections that were once easily managed are becoming increasingly difficult to treat. The study, conducted by researchers in the department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, highlights a disparity in how antimicrobial resistance is addressed. While bacterial resistance to antibiotics has long been a focus of national health policy, fungal infections—and specifically the emergence of antifungal resistance—have historically received significantly less attention. This neglect has created a gap in clinical knowledge and patient care, as medical practitioners often prescribe treatments without the necessary diagnostic data to confirm efficacy. Compounding the issue is the limited infrastructure for fungal diagnostics across Ghana’s healthcare facilities. Many laboratories lack the specialized equipment and trained personnel required for comprehensive medical mycology. Without routine antifungal susceptibility testing, clinicians are frequently forced to rely on empirical treatment, which can inadvertently accelerate the development of drug-resistant strains. Experts point out that the lack of widespread awareness regarding the nuances of fungal pathogens further hinders the effective management of these infections in both primary and tertiary care settings. To combat this emerging threat, researchers and public health advocates are calling for an immediate scale-up of laboratory capacity and the integration of routine antifungal testing into standard clinical protocols. Strengthening national surveillance systems to monitor resistance patterns is essential for informing treatment guidelines and preserving the effectiveness of remaining antifungal drugs. As Ghana navigates this silent crisis, the UHAS findings serve as a clarion call for the health ministry and relevant stakeholders to prioritize medical mycology as a vital component of the broader fight against antimicrobial resistance.

AMA calls for science-led action to protect Accra communities
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Accra Metropolitan Assembly Advocates for Science-Driven Solutions to Combat Air Pollution and Environmental Health Risks

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a call for the integration of scientific evidence into public health strategies to combat the growing environmental threats facing the capital. Commemorating World Environmental Health Day on September 26, 2026, the AMA highlighted the critical theme of "Environmental Health: Standing with Science to Protect Communities." This push for a more empirical approach to governance comes amid alarming data showing that air pollution alone is responsible for approximately 33,000 premature deaths annually across Ghana, underscoring the urgent need for data-driven interventions to safeguard the lives of millions of residents in the Greater Accra area. To address these challenges, the AMA has already deployed technological and educational resources aimed at identifying and neutralizing health risks. Central to this strategy is the installation of 13 air quality sensors throughout the city, providing the assembly with real-time data to monitor pollution levels and identify high-risk hotspots. Beyond air quality, the assembly has prioritized food safety and hygiene education, reaching thousands of food handlers and school children through targeted awareness programs. These initiatives are designed to instill best practices in sanitation and food preparation, which are vital in reducing the incidence of waterborne and food-related illnesses in dense urban centers. Moving forward, the AMA emphasizes that scientific monitoring must be matched by responsible civic behavior to be truly effective. Residents are urged to adopt rigorous personal hygiene standards and adhere to proper waste disposal protocols to support the assembly's environmental health goals. By combining advanced scientific tools with community-wide cooperation, the AMA aims to create a more resilient public health infrastructure. The ultimate objective is to mitigate the long-term impact of pollution and poor sanitation, ensuring that Accra becomes a safer, healthier environment for all its citizens.

Surgeon Dr. Kwadwo Adae Addresses Risks and Realities of 'Mummy Makeovers' and Breast Enhancements
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Surgeon Dr. Kwadwo Adae Addresses Risks and Realities of 'Mummy Makeovers' and Breast Enhancements

Dr. Kwadwo Adae, a specialist surgeon at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), has provided expert insight into the physical transformations women experience due to aging and motherhood, as well as the surgical options available to address them. Speaking in an interview on the program "Raw with Roselyn," Dr. Adae detailed how various life stages and lifestyle factors significantly impact the body's appearance. He emphasized that understanding the physiological changes that occur over time is essential for any individual considering elective surgical interventions. According to Dr. Adae, breasts undergo natural and often dramatic changes over time, frequently becoming heavier and losing essential fat content. This process leads to what is medically known as ptosis, or sagging. The surgeon explained that these changes are primarily driven by the natural aging process, the biological effects of childbirth, and significant weight fluctuations. By explaining the science behind these transformations, Dr. Adae aimed to help patients understand why their bodies change and what can realistically be achieved through cosmetic surgery. The discussion highlighted popular procedures such as breast lifts and augmentations, which are often central components of what is commonly referred to as a "mummy makeover." Dr. Adae clarified that while these procedures can help restore a more youthful or pre-pregnancy appearance, they must be approached with a clear understanding of the risks involved. A breast lift focuses on repositioning sagging tissue, while implants are used to restore or increase volume, and both require careful surgical planning and realistic patient expectations. Ultimately, Dr. Adae’s insights serve as an important guide for those navigating the complex landscape of cosmetic surgery in Ghana. He underscored the necessity of consulting with qualified medical professionals to ensure safety and to understand the long-term implications of these procedures. As the popularity of aesthetic enhancements grows, expert medical perspectives remain vital in helping the public distinguish between surgical possibilities and the natural evolution of the human body.

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UTAS Students Launch 'SafeSiso' AI Chatbot to Address Adolescent Reproductive Health Challenges

Two innovative students from the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) have launched SafeSiso, an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot designed to provide confidential sexual and reproductive health information to adolescents. Developed by Ms. Munayya Musah Seidu and Mr. Abdul Aziz Alhassan, the platform specifically targets young people aged 10 to 19, with a particular focus on girls who often face significant stigma and cultural barriers when seeking health advice. The initiative, launched in Navrongo, arrives at a critical juncture for national health; Ghana recorded 53,415 adolescent pregnancies between January and July 2026 alone, underscoring an urgent need for accessible and reliable health education. SafeSiso emerged as a cornerstone solution during the UNFPA Ghana 'AI for Her Future Hackathon,' receiving vital backing from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Government of Canada. The chatbot functions as a private virtual assistant, allowing users to engage in anonymous, judgment-free conversations about sensitive topics such as menstruation, pregnancy, and interpersonal relationships. Beyond merely providing information, the AI is programmed to bridge the gap between digital inquiry and physical care by connecting users to verified health professionals and medical services when the situation requires professional intervention. During the official launch, Ms. Theresa Fosuaa Yeboah of the UNFPA highlighted the chatbot's potential to dismantle traditional barriers and misinformation that frequently prevent adolescents from accessing essential services. By utilizing WhatsApp—a platform already deeply integrated into the daily lives of Ghanaian youth—the initiative aims to meet young people where they are, bypassing the fear of social repercussions often associated with visiting health facilities for reproductive advice. Ms. Munayya Musah Seidu emphasized that the tool's primary mission is to empower young women with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. While the initial rollout is concentrated in the Upper East Region, there are strategic plans to expand SafeSiso’s reach to schools and communities across the country. This expansion is viewed as a vital step in reducing the incidence of teenage pregnancy and ensuring that the next generation of Ghanaians is equipped with accurate, science-based health information. By leveraging artificial intelligence to bypass cultural taboos, SafeSiso represents a modern approach to public health that prioritizes privacy, accuracy, and adolescent well-being.

Agnes Owusu-Afram (right), Divisional Head, Corporate Communication and Experience, GTBank Ghana, presenting the items to Dr Charlyne Kilba (4th from left), Head, Department of Child Health, Greater Accra Regional Hospital. With them are officials of the bank and the hospital
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GTBank Ghana Boosts Childhood Cancer Treatment at Greater Accra Regional Hospital with Critical Equipment Donation

GTBank Ghana has bolstered the capacity of the Paediatric Oncology Unit at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital through a significant donation of specialized medical equipment. The initiative is aimed at improving the quality of care and the overall experience for children undergoing cancer treatment. By providing essential tools, the bank seeks to alleviate some of the clinical challenges faced by the facility in managing paediatric oncology cases. The donation includes a range of vital medical supplies and furniture specifically chosen to aid in the administration of life-saving treatments. Among the items handed over were chemotherapy kits, infusion pumps, and recliner chairs. The infusion pumps are particularly critical for ensuring the precise delivery of medication, while the chemotherapy kits provide the necessary consumables for treatment cycles. Additionally, the recliner chairs are intended to provide much-needed comfort for young patients during long hours of treatment, which can often be physically and emotionally taxing. During the presentation, representatives from GTBank emphasized the financial institution's deep-rooted commitment to community health and corporate social responsibility. The bank acknowledged that effective healthcare delivery requires not just skilled personnel, but also the right resources to ensure successful outcomes. Hospital officials, receiving the items, expressed profound gratitude for the gesture. They noted that such private-sector interventions are crucial in a landscape where the cost of cancer care is high and the demand for specialized paediatric resources continues to grow. This contribution is expected to have an immediate impact on the operational efficiency of the oncology unit, allowing for better management of patient flow and improved treatment precision. As the Greater Accra Regional Hospital continues to serve as a major hub for healthcare in the capital, partnerships with corporate entities like GTBank highlight the importance of multi-sectoral support in strengthening Ghana's health infrastructure. This donation marks a step forward in ensuring that children battling cancer receive care in an environment that prioritizes both medical excellence and patient dignity.

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Nigeria’s HIV-Prevention Strategy Faces Supply Challenges as Lenacapavir Injectables Run Out Across Multiple States

A critical shortage of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking twice-yearly injectable drug for HIV prevention, has hit several Nigerian states shortly after the commencement of a federal pilot program. The stock-out has sparked a scramble among key populations, particularly sex workers and other high-risk individuals who rely on the medication to mitigate the risk of infection. This sudden depletion of supplies highlights the high demand for long-acting antiretroviral options in Nigeria's ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, signaling a shift in how vulnerable populations prefer to manage their health. The shortage has been reported most acutely in Benue, Kwara, Gombe, and Cross River states. These regions, which were part of the initial phase of the Federal Government's rollout, saw their inventories exhausted almost immediately after distribution began. Health workers and advocacy groups have noted that the convenience of a biannual injection, as opposed to the daily regimen required by traditional oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), has driven an unprecedented level of interest and uptake among eligible Nigerians. Lenacapavir’s introduction was seen as a major milestone in Nigeria’s public health policy, offering a more discreet and manageable alternative for those at high risk of exposure. However, the rapid exhaustion of stock suggests that initial procurement volumes may have underestimated the public’s readiness to adopt the new technology. For sex workers in particular, the injectable form provides a level of privacy and consistency that is often difficult to maintain with daily pills, making the current lack of availability a significant setback for localized prevention efforts during this pilot phase. As the Federal Government and health agencies assess the situation, the focus shifts to scaling up procurement and improving the supply chain to prevent future disruptions. Ensuring a steady supply of Lenacapavir is essential not only for the success of the pilot program but also for sustaining the gains made in reducing HIV transmission rates across the country. The current scramble serves as a clear indicator of the public's appetite for innovative health solutions, placing the onus on authorities to bridge the gap between demand and delivery to protect those most at risk.

Dr Abigail Kyei, health consultant, delivering her speech at the event
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Ghana Health Service Launches 2026 National Family Planning Week to Drive Domestic Investment and Reproductive Health Access

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially launched the 2026 National Family Planning Week, calling for a significant increase in domestic investment to address the country’s growing contraceptive needs. Under the theme “A Choice for All: Agency, Intention, Access,” the initiative is strategically aligned with World Contraception Day to highlight the critical role of family planning in national development. The GHS emphasizes that while progress has been made in reproductive health, substantial gaps remain, particularly regarding unmet needs among women and couples across the country. By focusing on these gaps, the service aims to ensure that reproductive rights are not just theoretical but practically accessible to all citizens regardless of their location. Central to this year’s campaign is the urgent call for national ownership and sustainable financing. Keynote speakers during the launch highlighted that relying on international support alone is insufficient for long-term health security. By prioritizing domestic funding, Ghana aims to stabilize the supply of reproductive health commodities and ensure that services are consistently available at the primary healthcare level. This shift toward self-reliance is seen as a necessary step to protect the gains achieved in maternal and child health over the past decade. It also reflects a broader governmental strategy to integrate family planning into the national health insurance framework more effectively. Innovation is also at the forefront of the GHS strategy, with the introduction and promotion of digital tools such as the My Family Planning app. This application is designed to revolutionize how information is delivered and how resources are distributed, making it easier for citizens to access accurate data and services from their mobile devices. Officials noted that leveraging technology will be particularly beneficial in reaching Ghana’s youth and tech-savvy populations, who often face barriers when seeking traditional reproductive health services. This digital approach complements physical service delivery, providing a discreet and efficient way for individuals to manage their reproductive health. The 2026 National Family Planning Week also places a heavy emphasis on equity, specifically targeting underserved communities and marginalized demographic groups. By focusing on areas where access to healthcare is historically limited, the GHS and its partners aim to bridge the gap in service delivery. The week-long celebration involves a diverse range of stakeholders, from community leaders to international health partners, all working toward a unified goal of ensuring that every Ghanaian has the agency and the means to make informed choices about their reproductive future. This collaborative effort is expected to foster a more resilient health system capable of meeting future demands.

Gov't committed to integrating traditional medicine into healthcare – Deputy Health Minister
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Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Affirms Government Commitment to Integrating Traditional Medicine into National Healthcare

The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has signaled the government's firm intention to merge scientifically validated traditional medicine with Ghana’s formal healthcare system. Speaking during a high-profile visit to the Center of Awareness (COA) Research and Manufacturing Company, the Deputy Minister highlighted the sector’s untapped potential in strengthening the nation's healthcare delivery. This move aligns with President John Mahama’s administration’s broader strategy to expand access to medical services through the Free Primary Healthcare programme, ensuring that local health solutions are part of the national development agenda. The integration efforts are specifically targeted at addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across the country. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah pointed to international success stories, citing China as a primary example of how traditional medicine can be effectively institutionalized alongside Western medical practices. By leveraging local botanical resources and indigenous knowledge that have undergone rigorous scientific scrutiny, the Ministry of Health aims to provide more comprehensive and culturally relevant treatment options for Ghanaians while reducing the strain on conventional resources. In response to the government's policy direction, Mr. Samuel Ato Duncan, CEO of the COA Manufacturing Company, expressed strong support for the initiative. He emphasized that for traditional medicine to truly align with national healthcare objectives, there must be a concerted effort toward standardization and deep-rooted research. Mr. Duncan noted that private-sector participation in research and development is crucial for ensuring that traditional products meet the highest safety and efficacy standards required for mainstream clinical use, suggesting that government backing is essential for the industry to reach its full potential. The government’s commitment marks a significant shift toward a more inclusive healthcare model that recognizes the historical and practical importance of herbal and traditional treatments. As the Ministry of Health moves forward with these integration plans, the focus will remain on ensuring that all traditional remedies introduced into the Free Primary Healthcare framework are backed by robust empirical data. This initiative is expected to not only improve health outcomes but also stimulate the local pharmaceutical and herbal research industry, potentially positioning Ghana as a regional leader in the scientific advancement of traditional medicine.

CMLAG and The Max Foundation officials, health professionals, patients and other participants after the World CML Day celebration at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
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CML Advocates Ghana Urge Government to Fast-Track Duty Waivers for Life-Saving Cancer Medicines

The Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Advocates Ghana (CMLAG) has issued an urgent appeal to the Ghanaian government to streamline the process for granting duty waivers on donated medications. The group warns that bureaucratic delays in clearing essential treatments from the nation's ports are putting the lives of cancer patients at significant risk. These medications, which are vital for managing Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML), are provided free of charge by international partners but often remain stuck in administrative cycles involving the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance. Dr. Amma Benneh-Akwasi Kuma, a specialist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, highlighted the severe consequences of these delays, noting that past administrative bottlenecks have forced patients to go without life-saving treatment for extended periods. The financial burden of CML is immense; a single month’s supply of the necessary medication is valued at approximately GH¢34,000, a cost that is prohibitive for the vast majority of Ghanaian families. Consequently, the donations provided by organizations like The Max Foundation serve as a critical lifeline for those battling the disease. While advocates acknowledge that a legal framework for duty exemptions already exists, they emphasize that the implementation of these waivers is hindered by sluggish bureaucratic procedures. CMLAG is calling for a more efficient, fast-tracked system that prioritizes the clearance of donated health supplies to ensure a continuous supply of medicine. Beyond the administrative challenges, the group also urged the general public to offer greater support for cancer patients and encouraged citizens to prioritize regular health check-ups to facilitate early detection and management of the condition.

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UHAS Research Reveals Alarming 70% Resistance to Common Antifungal Treatments in Ghana

Ghana is grappling with a significant public health challenge as common fungal infections show increasing resistance to standard treatments. Recent research conducted at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho reveals that approximately 70% of Candida albicans isolates are now resistant to fluconazole, one of the most frequently prescribed antifungal medications in the country. This alarming trend underscores a growing gap in Ghana's infectious disease management, where fungal pathogens are becoming increasingly difficult to treat with conventional pharmacy-level interventions. The study highlights a systemic neglect of fungal infections in favor of more high-profile bacterial resistance issues. While the global and national conversation often centers on antibiotic-resistant superbugs, medical researchers are pointing to a critical lack of awareness regarding medical mycology. This knowledge gap is exacerbated by limited access to specialized fungal diagnostics, making it difficult for healthcare providers to accurately identify resistant strains and tailor treatments accordingly. Without the capacity to perform routine antifungal susceptibility testing, clinicians are often forced to prescribe treatments without definitive data, a practice that can further drive the cycle of resistance. Addressing this emerging threat requires a multifaceted approach to strengthen Ghana's laboratory infrastructure. Experts are advocating for enhanced surveillance systems to track the spread of resistant Candida species and a significant expansion of laboratory capacity across the country's healthcare facilities. By incorporating routine susceptibility testing into standard clinical practice, the medical community can ensure that patients receive effective medications rather than contributing to the proliferation of resistant strains through ineffective, empirical prescribing. Ultimately, the rise of antifungal resistance represents a critical frontier for Ghana’s healthcare system that demands immediate attention. Beyond clinical upgrades, there is a pressing need for increased education and specialized training for medical professionals in the field of mycology. As Candida infections continue to pose a threat to vulnerable populations, particularly those with compromised immune systems, the integration of fungal health into national public health strategies will be essential for safeguarding patient outcomes and maintaining the efficacy of the nation's remaining pharmaceutical arsenal.