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.

Dr David Wilfred Ochan (seated middle), the United Nations Population Fund Country Representative in Ghana, with Prof. Yaw Asante Awuku (3rd from right), Founding Head of Physician Assistant Studies, School of Allied Health Sciences in the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Patience Afulani (2nd from right), University of California, San Francisco, and other officials after the event. Picture: CALEB VANDERPUYE
health|

UNFPA Calls for Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan to Bolster Ghana's Healthcare Resilience

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has issued a call for Ghana to develop and implement a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan to safeguard the nation against future health crises. Speaking at the 15th Medical Knowledge Fiesta in Accra, Dr. David Wilfred Ochan, the UNFPA Country Representative, emphasized that the lessons learned from previous outbreaks, such as COVID-19 and Ebola, underscore the urgent need for a more structured and proactive response mechanism. Dr. Ochan highlighted that a robust framework is essential to ensure that the healthcare system can withstand sudden shocks while maintaining essential services for the population. The proposed strategy centers on three critical pillars: planning, practice, and partnerships. Dr. Ochan advocated for the establishment of clear leadership structures that can be activated immediately during an emergency, as well as the pre-positioning of vital medical supplies to avoid delays in treatment. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of regular simulations and the practice of emergency protocols. By conducting these exercises, health officials and frontline workers can identify gaps in their response strategies and refine their actions before a real-world disaster occurs, ensuring a more efficient and coordinated effort when time is of the essence. Echoing these sentiments, Prof. Yaw Asante Awuku pointed out that emergency preparedness is not the sole responsibility of a single entity but rather a collaborative effort. He noted that the government, healthcare professionals, and local communities must work in tandem to build a resilient health infrastructure. This collective approach is vital for facilitating knowledge sharing and enhancing the overall delivery of healthcare services during periods of crisis. The Medical Knowledge Fiesta served as a platform for these stakeholders to engage in dialogue and reaffirm their commitment to being adequately prepared before disasters strike, rather than merely reacting once they are underway.

A young man with an emotional expression sits on a green mat in a wooded outdoor area, likely a prayer camp. In the background, other individuals are seen resting on the ground among trees and various personal items like plastic basins and cloths.
health|

Hafiz Abdallah's Eight-Year Ordeal Highlights Ghana's Urgent Need for Mental Health Reform in Prayer Camps

Hafiz Abdallah's story is a harrowing look at the intersection of mental health and traditional spirituality in Ghana. Having entered the Nyinbonya prayer camp at age eight, Hafiz is now sixteen and has yet to receive a formal clinical diagnosis for his behavioral issues. His mother, struggling to cope with his erratic behavior following the death of his twin brother, turned to spiritual intervention after exhausting her financial resources on herbal remedies. This case is not an isolated one; across Ghana, numerous children are growing up in similar facilities, often subjected to harsh conditions such as chaining and forced fasting, as their families interpret mental health struggles through a purely spiritual lens rather than a medical one. The reliance on prayer camps stems from a complex mix of cultural beliefs, social stigma, and a severe lack of accessible clinical services. Many families view mental illness as a spiritual affliction, leading them to prioritize religious healers over mental health professionals. Experts note that this preference is often reinforced by a lack of awareness regarding available medical treatments and the high cost of clinical care. In the absence of a robust community-based support system, prayer camps become the default sanctuary for the desperate, even when the treatment involves human rights violations that contradict the humane care mandated by Ghana’s Mental Health Act. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach that bridges the gap between the medical community and faith-based institutions. Clinical experts are calling for the integration of mental health care with traditional and religious practices, emphasizing that spiritual leaders must be trained to recognize mental health needs and refer cases to medical facilities. Furthermore, there is an urgent need for stronger government regulation and enforcement of existing laws to protect vulnerable children like Hafiz. By fostering collaboration between doctors and spiritual healers, and improving public education on mental health, Ghana can move toward a system where medical science and cultural values coexist to provide humane, effective care for all citizens.

The official logo of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is shown as a circular seal. The emblem features a central crest with a palm tree, cocoa pods, and the Ga motto, all enclosed within a green border stating the assembly's name and founding date.
health|

Accra Metropolitan Assembly Advocates for Science-Led Policies to Combat Environmental Health Risks

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a call for the integration of scientific evidence into public policy to address the escalating environmental health challenges facing the national capital. Marking World Environmental Health Day on September 26, 2025, under the theme "Environmental Health: Standing with Science to Protect Communities," the assembly emphasized that data-driven interventions are critical to saving lives. The urgency of this shift is underscored by alarming statistics indicating that air pollution alone contributes to approximately 33,000 premature deaths annually across Ghana, alongside broader risks from poor sanitation and unsafe food handling. In response to these threats, the AMA’s Metro Public Health Department has intensified its field operations and monitoring capabilities. The assembly has already installed 13 air quality sensors across various locations in Accra to provide real-time data for better urban planning and health warnings. Furthermore, educational outreach programs have reached nearly 30,000 premises and schools, focusing on hygiene and proper waste disposal. To ensure food safety, the department has screened over 9,000 food handlers, reporting significant levels of compliance while continuing to monitor for public health violations. Florence Kuukyi, the Director of the Metro Public Health Department, stressed that the success of these initiatives depends on the effective translation of scientific research into actionable community practices. She highlighted that as urbanization intensifies, Accra faces a complex cocktail of health risks, including heat-related illnesses and environmental pollution. Director Kuukyi called for a stronger synergy between scientific institutions, local government authorities, and community leaders to ensure that findings from researchers are implemented on the ground to safeguard public welfare. Looking ahead, the AMA is urging residents to take personal responsibility for their immediate environments to complement government efforts. The assembly maintains that while policy and technology—such as the new sensor network—provide the framework for a healthier city, sustainable improvement requires a collective change in behavior regarding waste management and sanitation. By aligning local actions with scientific standards, the AMA aims to create a resilient urban environment capable of mitigating the severe health impacts of climate change and rapid urban growth.

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
health|

GTBank Ghana Donates Essential Paediatric Oncology Equipment to Greater Accra Regional Hospital

GTBank Ghana has bolstered the healthcare delivery capacity of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital through a significant donation of specialized medical equipment to its Paediatric Oncology Unit. This contribution is specifically designed to enhance the quality of care and treatment provided to children diagnosed with cancer, a demographic that requires highly sensitive and resource-intensive medical attention. The initiative reflects a growing trend of corporate institutions intervening to support Ghana’s public health infrastructure, particularly in specialized fields like oncology. The donated equipment includes high-precision infusion pumps, chemotherapy kits, and specialized recliner chairs tailored for pediatric use. Infusion pumps are critical in oncology for the precise delivery of medication dosages, while the chemotherapy kits provide the necessary tools for safe treatment administration. Furthermore, the inclusion of recliner chairs addresses the need for patient comfort, as children often spend several hours stationary while receiving intravenous therapies. These items are expected to streamline clinical workflows and improve the therapeutic environment for the young patients. During the presentation ceremony, representatives from GTBank emphasized the institution's commitment to community health and social investment. They acknowledged that effective healthcare requires more than just medical expertise; it necessitates the availability of modern, functional equipment. By targeting the paediatric oncology sector, the bank aimed to provide support where the emotional and financial toll on families is often most severe. This donation serves as a cornerstone of the bank's corporate social responsibility strategy, focusing on sustainable impacts within the Ghanaian health sector. Hospital officials, receiving the items, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, highlighting that such support is crucial for the facility’s operational efficiency. They noted that the Greater Accra Regional Hospital serves a large and diverse population, and the new resources will help alleviate some of the pressures on the oncology unit. This partnership underscores the importance of public-private collaborations in addressing the gaps within the national health system, ultimately ensuring that children suffering from cancer have a better chance at recovery and a more dignified treatment experience.

health|

Nigerian Federal Government Pilot Program Faces Lenacapavir Shortage Amid High Demand for HIV-Prevention Injectable

The Federal Government of Nigeria’s pilot program for the HIV-prevention drug Lenacapavir is facing significant challenges as supplies have been depleted across several states. The shortage follows an unexpected surge in demand for the twice-yearly injectable, which has become highly sought after by sex workers and other eligible citizens. Reports indicate that stock-outs are particularly severe in Benue, Kwara, Gombe, and Cross River, occurring shortly after the medication was first made available under the government’s new health initiative. This rapid depletion highlights both the success of the initial outreach and the current strain on the medical supply chain. Lenacapavir represents a significant advancement in HIV prevention, offering a long-acting alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The preference for a twice-yearly injection is driven by its convenience and the reduced burden of daily pill-taking, which is often a barrier for those at high risk of infection. However, the scramble for the jab in the pilot states suggests that the initial allocation of doses was insufficient to meet the public's appetite for this modern preventive measure. Health officials in the affected regions are now grappling with how to manage expectations and secure additional supplies. The current situation in states like Gombe and Cross River underscores the necessity of robust logistics in the rollout of new medical technologies. While the pilot program was intended to test the feasibility of the drug's use in Nigeria, the immediate stock-out provides a clear signal that a much larger scale of distribution will be required to effectively serve the target populations. Moving forward, the Federal Government and health stakeholders must address these supply gaps to maintain momentum in the fight against HIV. The success of future prevention strategies will depend on ensuring that breakthrough treatments like Lenacapavir are not only available in theory but are consistently accessible to the Nigerians who need them most. The lessons learned from this initial 'scramble' will be vital for the eventual nationwide integration of long-acting injectables into the national health framework.

Dr Abigail Kyei, health consultant, delivering her speech at the event
health|

Ghana Health Service Advocates for Enhanced Domestic Funding at 2026 National Family Planning Week Launch

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially launched the 2026 National Family Planning Week, calling for a significant boost in domestic investment to address the country’s reproductive health requirements. Held in alignment with World Contraception Day, the initiative aims to bridge the gap in contraceptive access and ensure that every Ghanaian has the agency to make informed reproductive choices. GHS officials emphasized that while progress has been made in recent years, the long-term sustainability of family planning services depends heavily on national ownership and dedicated internal financing rather than a primary reliance on external donor support. This shift in strategy is seen as essential for maintaining the momentum of health gains achieved under the current administration. This year's celebration is themed "A Choice for All: Agency, Intention, Access," highlighting a multi-stakeholder approach to improving service delivery across the nation. A central feature of the launch was the discussion of innovative digital solutions, specifically the My Family Planning app. This tool is designed to enhance resource distribution and provide accurate, accessible information directly to the public. By integrating such technology, the GHS aims to modernize reproductive health delivery and reach younger populations who increasingly rely on digital platforms for health-related information. Beyond technology, the campaign is placing a renewed focus on equity, specifically targeting underserved communities and marginalized demographic groups who often face the highest barriers to care. Keynote speakers at the launch noted that meeting the "unmet needs" of women and couples requires a tailored approach that addresses cultural, economic, and geographic challenges. By prioritizing these vulnerable segments, the GHS aims to ensure that reproductive rights are protected across all regions, contributing to the broader goal of universal health coverage. As the week-long series of events unfolds, the GHS and its partners are advocating for a fundamental shift in how reproductive health is prioritized within the national budget. The call for enhanced domestic investment is intended to insulate the health sector from fluctuating international aid and ensure a steady supply of contraceptives and services. Moving forward, the government and private sector stakeholders are expected to collaborate on financial frameworks that treat family planning not just as a health service, but as a critical pillar of national development and socio-economic stability.

Gov't committed to integrating traditional medicine into healthcare – Deputy Health Minister
health|

Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Reaffirms Government Commitment to Integrate Traditional Medicine into Ghana’s Healthcare System

The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has signaled a significant shift in Ghana's healthcare strategy, reaffirming the government’s commitment to incorporating scientifically validated traditional medicine into the nation’s mainstream medical framework. Speaking during a visit to the Center of Awareness (COA) Research and Manufacturing Company, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah highlighted that traditional medicine is poised to play a pivotal role in the administration's Free Primary Healthcare programme. This initiative aims to broaden access to medical services by utilizing diverse treatment modalities that have proven effective and safe through rigorous testing. The government’s approach is heavily influenced by successful global models, particularly that of China, where traditional practices are seamlessly integrated with modern medical science. By adopting a similar hybrid model, the Ministry of Health intends to leverage traditional remedies to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the integration process would not be arbitrary; rather, it will focus exclusively on traditional products and practices that have undergone comprehensive scientific research and validation to ensure they meet national safety and efficacy standards. Welcoming the government's stance, the CEO of COA Manufacturing Company, Mr. Samuel Ato Duncan, expressed readiness to align the company’s efforts with national healthcare objectives. He underscored the critical importance of standardization and continuous research in the traditional medicine sector. According to Mr. Duncan, government support is essential for creating a structured environment where traditional medicine can be professionalized and its benefits maximized for the general public. He noted that such collaboration would enhance the credibility of local herbal products, making them more acceptable within the formal clinical environment. This move towards integration marks a transformative step in Ghana's health policy, acknowledging the cultural and practical significance of traditional medicine while maintaining a strict adherence to scientific rigor. As the Ministry of Health works toward full implementation, the focus will remain on building robust research frameworks and establishing clear regulatory guidelines. By bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern science, the government hopes to create a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system that effectively serves the needs of all Ghanaians.

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.
health|

CML Advocates Ghana Urge Government to Expedite Duty Waivers for Life-Saving Donated Cancer Medicines

The Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Advocates Ghana (CMLAG) has made a passionate plea to the government to fast-track the issuance of duty waivers for donated medications essential for managing the disease. This appeal comes amid growing concerns that bureaucratic delays in the clearing process are leaving many patients without life-saving treatment for extended periods. The advocates are calling on both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance to streamline the administrative hurdles that currently prevent donated drugs from reaching health facilities in a timely manner. Dr. Amma Benneh-Akwasi Kuma, a specialist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that previous delays have had a direct impact on patient outcomes. These medications, which are provided free of charge by The Max Foundation, are financially out of reach for the average Ghanaian; a single month’s supply is estimated to cost approximately GH"34,000. While a legal framework for duty exemptions is already in place to facilitate such donations, advocates argue that the lack of efficient implementation continues to jeopardize the health of those living with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia. Beyond the immediate need for administrative reform, CMLAG is also championing a broader movement for cancer awareness and support in Ghana. The group is urging the general public to offer more robust support to cancer patients and is encouraging citizens to undergo regular health screenings for early detection. By addressing the logistical barriers to medication access and fostering a more supportive health ecosystem, the advocates hope to significantly improve the quality of life and survival rates for CML patients across the country.

health|

Ghanaian Health Research Reveals 70% Resistance Rate in Candida Infections to Common Antifungals

Ghana’s healthcare system is facing a significant challenge as Candida infections, particularly Candida albicans, show an alarming rise in resistance to conventional antifungal treatments. Research from the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho indicates that 70% of Candida isolates are now resistant to fluconazole, a common antifungal drug. This growing resistance represents a major threat to public health, especially for immunocompromised patients who rely on these medications for survival. The UHAS study points to a broader systemic issue where fungal infections are often overshadowed by the focus on bacterial resistance. Challenges such as limited access to fungal diagnostics and a lack of specialized medical mycology awareness hinder the effective management of these infections. Currently, many healthcare facilities in Ghana do not perform routine antifungal susceptibility testing, which often leads to the use of treatments that are increasingly ineffective against resistant strains. To address this emerging threat, experts are calling for urgent improvements in laboratory capacity and the implementation of routine antifungal testing. Strengthening national surveillance to monitor resistance trends is also essential for informing treatment guidelines. By prioritizing diagnostic access and medical education on fungal pathogens, Ghana can better manage the risk of antifungal resistance and improve patient care outcomes across the country.

Dr David Wilfred Ochan (seated middle), the United Nations Population Fund Country Representative in Ghana, with Prof. Yaw Asante Awuku (3rd from right), Founding Head of Physician Assistant Studies, School of Allied Health Sciences in the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Patience Afulani (2nd from right), University of California, San Francisco, and other officials after the event. Picture: CALEB VANDERPUYE
health|

UNFPA Representative Urges Ghana to Establish Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan

Dr. David Wilfred Ochan, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative, has emphasized the critical need for Ghana to develop and implement a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan. Speaking at the 15th Medical Knowledge Fiesta in Accra, Dr. Ochan underscored that the nation’s ability to respond effectively to future health crises, such as pandemics or localized outbreaks, depends on proactive planning rather than reactive measures. Drawing on lessons from the global COVID-19 pandemic and the regional Ebola crisis, the call to action highlights the necessity of being prepared long before a disaster occurs. The strategy proposed by the UNFPA centers on three essential pillars: planning, practice, and partnerships. Dr. Ochan detailed that a robust emergency framework must include clearly defined leadership structures to ensure a streamlined chain of command during a crisis. Furthermore, the pre-positioning of essential medical supplies was identified as a critical factor in ensuring that healthcare facilities are not caught off guard. To maintain a high state of readiness, the UNFPA Representative advocated for the implementation of regular simulations and drills to test emergency protocols, ensuring that health workers are intimately familiar with procedures before an actual emergency strikes. Supporting this vision, Prof. Yaw Asante Awuku highlighted that emergency preparedness is not the sole burden of a single entity but a collective responsibility. He noted that building a resilient health system requires active collaboration between the government, healthcare professionals, and local communities. The Medical Knowledge Fiesta served as a vital platform for this exchange, aiming to facilitate knowledge sharing and enhance healthcare delivery across the country. By integrating these collaborative efforts, stakeholders believe Ghana can build a more secure health infrastructure capable of protecting the population at a moment's notice.

A young man with an emotional expression sits on a green mat in a wooded outdoor area, likely a prayer camp. In the background, other individuals are seen resting on the ground among trees and various personal items like plastic basins and cloths.
health|

Ghana’s Mental Health Crisis: The Case of Hafiz Abdallah and Children Growing Up in Prayer Camps

The story of Hafiz Abdallah, a 16-year-old boy who has spent half his life at the Nyinbonya prayer camp, has brought renewed attention to the systemic failures in Ghana’s mental health care system. Hafiz was first taken to the camp at age eight after his mother struggled to manage his increasingly erratic behavior following the death of his twin brother. Now, eight years later, he remains without a formal clinical diagnosis, illustrating a common phenomenon where children with mental health conditions grow up in spiritual centers rather than receiving medical treatment. For many families, these camps are seen as a last resort when financial resources for traditional remedies are exhausted and professional psychiatric services remain inaccessible or misunderstood. Cultural beliefs in Ghana frequently lead families to interpret mental illness as a spiritual affliction, prompting them to seek intervention from religious leaders rather than clinicians. In Hafiz’s case, his mother turned to the prayer camp after facing significant difficulties managing his outbursts, which sometimes resulted in him being chained to prevent harm. Experts note that the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health, combined with a lack of localized clinical facilities, leaves many parents with few options. This often results in vulnerable children being subjected to methods that clinical professionals find deeply concerning, including forced fasting and prolonged physical restraint. While Ghana possesses a Mental Health Act intended to protect the rights of the mentally ill and mandate humane treatment, enforcement of these legal protections remains critically weak. Medical experts and child welfare advocates emphasize that behavior seen as 'abnormal' requires a clinical response to identify underlying conditions such as autism, ADHD, or trauma-related disorders. They argue that the current reliance on prayer camps without medical oversight denies children their right to proper healthcare and development, leaving them in a state of 'diagnostic limbo' for years on end. To address this crisis, there is a growing call for a collaborative approach that integrates mental health services with traditional and religious practices. Clinical experts suggest that instead of sidelining spiritual leaders, the state should provide them with training to recognize mental health symptoms and refer cases to medical professionals. Strengthening the regulation of prayer camps and improving community-based mental health education are essential steps to ensure that children like Hafiz are not left to grow up in confinement, but are instead given the clinical support and humane care necessary for their recovery and well-being.

The official logo of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is shown as a circular seal. The emblem features a central crest with a palm tree, cocoa pods, and the Ga motto, all enclosed within a green border stating the assembly's name and founding date.
health|

Accra Metropolitan Assembly Urges Science-Led Interventions to Tackle Mounting Environmental Health Risks

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a clarion call for the integration of scientific evidence into public health policies to better protect residents from escalating environmental hazards. Marking World Environmental Health Day on September 26, 2025, under the theme "Environmental Health: Standing with Science to Protect Communities," the Assembly emphasized that evidence-based strategies are essential to addressing the complex challenges of urbanization, sanitation, and pollution currently facing the capital. The urgency of this call is underscored by alarming health data that highlights the fatal consequences of environmental neglect. The AMA noted that air pollution alone contributes to approximately 33,000 premature deaths annually across Ghana. Citing wider World Bank data, the Assembly pointed out that environmental degradation and pollution are linked to millions of deaths globally. Beyond air quality, the city faces significant public health risks from poor sanitation, improper waste disposal, and unsafe food handling, all of which are further exacerbated by rising temperatures and rapid urban expansion. In response to these threats, the AMA’s Metro Public Health Department has intensified its field operations and technical monitoring efforts. To date, the Assembly has installed 13 air quality sensors across Accra to provide real-time data for more accurate policy formulation. Furthermore, health officials have conducted educational outreach at nearly 30,000 premises and screened over 9,000 food handlers to ensure strict compliance with hygiene standards. These initiatives are designed to bridge the gap between high-level scientific research and everyday community practices. Florence Kuukyi, the Director of the Metro Public Health Department, stressed that the success of these interventions depends on translating scientific findings into actionable measures that residents can adopt. She advocated for stronger collaboration between scientific institutions, local authorities, and the general public to foster a culture of environmental stewardship. As Accra continues to grow, the AMA maintains that collective action and adherence to scientific guidelines remain the most viable paths toward ensuring a healthier and more resilient city for all residents.