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.

WHO Launches PROTECT Framework in Accra to Combat Global Drowning Crisis
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WHO Launches PROTECT Framework in Accra to Combat Global Drowning Crisis

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially introduced the PROTECT Technical Package for Drowning Prevention in Accra, Ghana. This global policy framework is designed to assist nations in curbing the alarming rate of drowning deaths, which claim over 300,000 lives annually worldwide. With more than 90% of these fatalities occurring in low- and middle-income countries, the initiative represents a critical effort to address a frequently overlooked public health emergency that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Dr. Fiona Braka, the WHO Country Representative for Ghana, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that nearly half of all drowning victims are under the age of 30. The PROTECT package is built upon seven strategic pillars that provide practical, evidence-based guidance to strengthen legislation and multi-sectoral systems. These pillars focus on enhancing infrastructure, improving rescue capacities, securing transport safety, and expanding education and community awareness. By integrating health, education, and disaster management sectors, the package aims to create a comprehensive safety net against water-related tragedies. Supporting the initiative, Ghana’s Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, highlighted the profound impact of drowning on local communities and national development. He underscored the increasing risks posed by climate-related floods and announced the government's commitment to institutionalizing water rescue training and bolstering emergency response capabilities. The Ministry of the Interior plans to utilize the PROTECT framework to refine national policies and ensure that water safety measures are embedded into the country's broader development agenda. The implementation of the package in Ghana is further bolstered by a partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies. The organization is collaborating with local universities and NGOs to enhance swimming education and lifeguard services, ensuring that life-saving skills are accessible to the public. As stakeholders move toward active implementation, the focus remains on transforming the PROTECT guidelines into tangible actions that protect children and safeguard the lives of those living in high-risk aquatic environments.

The funding cuts are the most serious disruption in the HIV response since the world came together to fight this disease, UNAIDS chief Winnie Byanyima told AFP. By Fabrice COFFRINI (AFP/File)
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Ghana AIDS Commission to Deploy Nationwide Condom Vending Machines Amid Alarming 20% Drop in Global HIV Funding

The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has announced a strategic nationwide rollout of condom vending machines, scheduled for completion by the final quarter of 2026. This initiative aims to significantly enhance access to prevention tools and combat the spread of HIV/AIDS by placing machines in high-traffic public areas, including lorry stations, shopping malls, and mosques. By allowing for discreet and private transactions, the GAC hopes to overcome social stigmas that often hinder individuals from seeking protection. Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, Director-General of the GAC, emphasized that the machines will feature community-specific designs to address previous challenges with vandalism and theft, ensuring the sustainability of the program. This domestic push for improved prevention comes at a volatile time for global health, as international experts warn that progress against the HIV epidemic is in "real danger." Reports from UNAIDS and discussions at the 26th International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro reveal that global funding for HIV programs plummeted by approximately 20% last year. At $7.3 billion, funding has reached its lowest level in two decades, largely due to shifting political priorities in major donor nations like the United States. This financial shortfall is particularly concerning for sub-Saharan Africa, where diminished international commitment threatens to derail the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. To mitigate these global trends, the Ghanaian government has moved to secure its own supply chains, recently procuring additional condom stocks to address reported domestic shortages. While scientific advancements have made HIV a manageable condition, UNAIDS chief Winnie Byanyima and other health officials warn that funding cuts disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including children who still face significant gaps in access to life-saving treatments. As international donor support wavers, Ghana's focus on community-tailored distribution and increased domestic resource management represents a critical shift toward self-reliance in the ongoing fight against the epidemic.

Africa CDC Calls for Local Vaccine Manufacturing as DRC Ebola Cases Surpass 3,200
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Africa CDC Calls for Local Vaccine Manufacturing as DRC Ebola Cases Surpass 3,200

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently grappling with a severe surge in Ebola infections, with confirmed cases reaching 3,200 and fatalities rising to at least 1,405. This 17th outbreak, which was officially declared on May 15, is particularly concerning due to the prevalence of the Bundibugyo strain of the virus—a variant for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Health officials report that infections spiked by approximately 1,000 cases in a mere 10-day period, with nearly 90% of these cases concentrated in the northeastern province of Ituri. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the actual toll could be higher, as humanitarian challenges and regional instability hamper accurate data collection and access to affected communities. The response effort in the DRC faces significant internal hurdles, including strikes by healthcare workers over unpaid wages, which have disrupted hospital operations at a critical juncture. Despite these challenges, experimental vaccine trials are being fast-tracked to address the Bundibugyo strain. Simultaneously, the Director-General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Dr. Jean Kaseya, has utilized the platform of the African Union Summit to call for a paradigm shift in how the continent handles such crises. Dr. Kaseya emphasized that the future of African health security lies in evidence-based responses and a drastic reduction in the continent's reliance on external medical supplies. Central to the Africa CDC's strategy is the promotion of local vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Dr. Kaseya praised efforts to bolster regional production and highlighted the importance of proactive communication in debunking misinformation. This follows Ghana’s recent dismissal of false rumors regarding an Ebola outbreak within its borders; Ghanaian authorities confirmed that surveillance systems are fully functional and no cases have been detected. The Director-General argued that building community trust and strengthening public health infrastructure are essential to combat the "infodemic" of misinformation that often undermines official health interventions. Looking ahead, Dr. Kaseya expressed a firm ambition for Africa to achieve a level of health autonomy that would allow it to manage outbreaks independently by December 2026. This vision requires sustained investment in regional manufacturing and a shift away from fear-based reactions toward science-driven policy. As clinical trials for new treatments continue, the immediate focus remains on containing the spread in the DRC through improved detection and testing, while laying the groundwork for a self-sufficient African health architecture capable of withstanding future biological threats.

CONFIRMED: Awuche, said to be Ghana’s ‘tallest man’ dies at age 33
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Sulemana ‘Awuche’ Abdul-Samed, Recognized as Ghana’s Tallest Man, Dies at 33

Sulemana Abdul-Samed, affectionately known as "Awuche" and widely recognized as Ghana’s tallest man, has passed away at the age of 33. He died on July 27, 2026, at the Tamale Teaching Hospital in the Northern Region after a prolonged battle with health complications stemming from gigantism. Standing at an extraordinary height of approximately 7 feet 4 inches, Awuche was a well-known figure across the country whose physical stature and gentle demeanor captured the hearts of many Ghanaians, making him a household name beyond his local community. His death follows a challenging health journey that had become a matter of national concern over the past several years. In recent months, his condition had significantly deteriorated, with the 33-year-old facing severe mobility issues and recurring medical problems. These complications are often associated with gigantism, a condition characterized by excessive growth due to an overproduction of growth hormones. Awuche had undergone several rounds of treatment and frequent hospital visits as his health worsened, requiring specialized care to manage the physical strain his height placed on his internal organs and skeletal structure. Throughout his illness, Awuche received significant support from both the public and prominent philanthropists. Notably, businessman Ibrahim Mahama took responsibility for his medical expenses and provided critical intervention earlier this year to help him avoid a potential leg amputation. This support, coupled with various public appeals for financial assistance, underscored the deep sympathy many felt for his plight. Despite these medical interventions and the dedicated efforts of the clinical team at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, his condition eventually succumbed to the mounting complications of his long-term illness. Since the news of his passing was confirmed, tributes have flooded social media and national news platforms, with many celebrating his resilience, humility, and the dignified way he navigated his unique life challenges. Awuche was frequently praised for his kind spirit and the patience he showed to the many people who sought him out due to his record-breaking height. His passing marks the end of a story that brought national attention to the challenges of rare medical conditions in Ghana, leaving behind a legacy of a man who remained humble and hopeful despite his physical burdens.

Rebecca Foundation Supports Pediatric Cancer Care with Donations to Sunshine House and Princess Marie Louise Hospital
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Rebecca Foundation Supports Pediatric Cancer Care with Donations to Sunshine House and Princess Marie Louise Hospital

The Rebecca Foundation, spearheaded by former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has provided significant support to pediatric health institutions in Accra through the donation of essential food and hygiene supplies. The foundation’s Lead Strategist, Sheela Sakyi Oppong, led the delegation to present various items to the Ghana Parents Childhood Cancer Association’s Sunshine House and the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital. This initiative is part of the foundation's broader commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes, particularly for those facing the daunting challenges of childhood cancer and severe nutritional deficiencies. The donations, which included large quantities of rice, cooking oil, and detergents, were aimed at easing the operational burdens of the beneficiary institutions. At the Sunshine House—a facility located near the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital that provides accommodation for children and their guardians during cancer treatment—the supplies will directly benefit 22 children currently in residence. The Assistant Warden of the facility expressed profound gratitude, noting that consistent support from the foundation has been a lifeline for families who often struggle with the hidden costs of long-term medical care, such as food and lodging. At the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital, the donation was received by Dr. Margaret Neizer, who emphasized the critical nature of such contributions for the hospital’s Nutritional Rehabilitation Centre. Dr. Neizer pointed out that the facility relies heavily on the benevolence of organizations like the Rebecca Foundation to provide meals for children undergoing treatment. She noted that proper nutrition is an indispensable component of medical recovery, and the provision of high-quality food items ensures that the hospital can maintain its standards of care for vulnerable patients. This outreach highlights the vital partnership between private charitable foundations and Ghana’s public health infrastructure. As childhood cancer treatment and nutritional rehabilitation are often resource-intensive, the contributions from the Rebecca Foundation provide a necessary buffer against the financial constraints faced by both hospitals and patients' families. The foundation's continued focus on health advocacy and direct intervention remains a significant factor in the landscape of social welfare and healthcare delivery in Ghana.

Some dignitaries and participants during the 5th annual general meeting of the Society of Medical Laboratory Managers, Ghana. Picture : ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
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Medical Laboratory Managers Urge Government to Expedite Salary Scale Placement and Institutional Reforms

The Society of Medical Laboratory Managers-Ghana (SMLM-G) has issued an urgent appeal to the government to expedite the placement of medical laboratory specialists on the public sector salary scale. During their Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on July 23 in Accra, the Society emphasized that equitable remuneration is a fundamental requirement for enhancing the quality of healthcare across the country. The call comes at a pivotal time as the health sector prepares for increased service demands under the current administration's healthcare initiatives. Beyond salary concerns, the SMLM-G outlined several critical policy requests aimed at strengthening the diagnostic sector of the healthcare system. Key among these is the formal inclusion of laboratory managers in hospital management teams to ensure technical expertise is represented at the decision-making level. The Society also advocated for the establishment of a dedicated Medical Laboratory Council and the immediate recruitment of unemployed professionals to address existing workforce gaps in public health facilities. The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, participating in the event, acknowledged the impending surge in demand for laboratory services, driven largely by the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Programme. He noted that the expansion of primary care necessitates a corresponding increase in workforce development and more robust financing for laboratory infrastructure. This admission aligns with the SMLM-G's position that the success of national health programs depends heavily on a well-motivated and adequately resourced laboratory workforce. As the government of President John Mahama continues to implement its health agenda, the resolution of these labor and administrative issues remains a priority for medical professionals. The SMLM-G has made it clear that professional recognition and fair compensation are not just industrial demands but essential components of a resilient healthcare delivery system. The group expects the Ministry of Health and relevant agencies to act swiftly on these recommendations to ensure the highest standards of diagnostic care for all Ghanaians.

Dr Ama Antwiwaa Adu Appiah ( middle), Medical officer at the Paga Hospital, presenting the items to Zita Abdulaih (left), Nurse Manager at the Paga Hospital. Looking on is Raphael Pariyewe (right) , Organiser of the Paga Youth Movement
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Dr. Ama Antwiwaa Adu-Appiah Donates GH¢20,000 Reward to Equip Paga Hospital with Vital Medical Supplies

In a remarkable act of selflessness, Dr. Ama Antwiwaa Adu-Appiah has donated a GH¢20,000 cash reward back to the Paga Hospital to procure vital medical equipment. The funds, which were originally presented to her by the Paga Youth Movement as an incentive for accepting a posting to the facility, have been utilized to address critical resource gaps. This gesture comes at a time when the health sector in Ghana, under President John Mahama’s administration, is focused on improving healthcare accessibility and equipment standards in rural and underserved communities. The donation has enabled the procurement of essential medical tools, including nebulisers, blood pressure monitors, and a fetal Doppler machine. These additions are expected to significantly enhance the diagnostic and treatment capabilities of the hospital, particularly in maternal health and emergency respiratory care. Dr. Adu-Appiah expressed her deep gratitude to the Paga Youth Movement for the recognition but emphasized that her primary commitment remains the well-being of her patients. She credited the collaborative environment at the hospital and the unwavering support of her colleagues as key factors in her decision to reinvest the reward into the facility's infrastructure. Local stakeholders have hailed the doctor’s decision as a rare example of dedication to public service. The Paga Youth Movement, which initiated the reward to encourage medical professionals to serve in the district, noted that such actions inspire confidence in the local health system. By turning a personal incentive into a communal resource, Dr. Adu-Appiah has set a precedent for how individual professional recognition can be leveraged for broader social impact within the Upper East Region. To ensure the longevity of this investment, the Nurse Manager at Paga Hospital has confirmed that a strict maintenance schedule will be implemented for the newly acquired equipment. This sustainability plan is crucial for maintaining the improved standard of care now available at the facility. As Paga continues to navigate the challenges of rural healthcare delivery, the integration of these new technologies serves as a beacon of progress and a testament to the transformative power of dedicated medical personnel working in tandem with their local communities.

KGL partners Ghana Medical Trust Fund to build modern diagnostic centre at Ridge Hospital
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Ghana Medical Trust Fund Partners with KGL Group for Ridge Hospital Diagnostic Center Amidst Strategic Briefing to Otumfuo

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) has intensified its mission to expand specialized healthcare access through a major private-sector partnership and high-level strategic engagements. At the forefront of these efforts is a new collaboration with the KGL Group and KGL Foundation to establish a state-of-the-art diagnostic center at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge). This initiative represents a significant private-sector investment aimed at enhancing domestic medical imaging capabilities and addressing the long-standing demand for modern diagnostic equipment in Ghana's public health system. The new diagnostic center at Ridge Hospital is designed to serve as a premier hub for advanced imaging services. It will be equipped with modern medical technologies, including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines, CT scanners, mammography units, X-ray machines, and fluoroscopy equipment. Following a comprehensive site inspection led by GMTF Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku and KGL Group CEO Alex Apau Dadey, the project has officially entered its implementation phase. Once operational, the center is expected to drastically reduce patient wait times and improve clinical outcomes for thousands of Ghanaians seeking specialized care. Parallel to these infrastructure developments, the GMTF is strengthening its institutional and traditional partnerships to ensure the sustainability of its reforms. A high-powered delegation, led by the Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, recently visited the Manhyia Palace to brief His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on the fund's progress and vision. During the engagement, the leadership highlighted ongoing efforts to alleviate the financial burden on citizens suffering from chronic diseases. The Minister emphasized that the Trust Fund's core mandate is to ensure that specialized treatment becomes more accessible to the vulnerable, reducing the life-altering costs often associated with complex medical conditions. These combined efforts reflect a dual-track strategy by the GMTF: leveraging private-sector capital for physical infrastructure while engaging traditional leadership to build public trust and national support. The partnership with the KGL Group serves as a blueprint for future collaborations between the state and corporate entities in the health sector. As the Ridge Hospital project progresses, the Ministry of Health and the GMTF remain focused on creating a resilient healthcare framework where financial status is no longer a barrier to receiving high-quality, specialized medical attention.

Participants in the 2026 annual research project exhibition and stakeholder engagement
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UENR Researchers Warn of Public Health Risks Linked to Unregulated Antibiotic Use in Fish Farming

Researchers from the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) have issued a stern warning regarding the widespread and unregulated use of antibiotics in Ghana's fish farming sector. A study conducted in the Sunyani Municipality has revealed that many fish farmers are applying these medications without professional guidance, a practice that poses a significant threat to public health and contributes to the growing global crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The findings highlight an urgent need for intervention to prevent the contamination of water bodies and ensure the safety of fish products destined for human consumption. Dr. Seyramsarah Blossom Setufe, the Head of the Department of Fisheries and Water Resources at UENR, detailed the specific dangers associated with this trend. According to Dr. Setufe, the lack of professional oversight often leads to the accumulation of antibiotic residues within the fish themselves. When these residues are ingested by consumers, they can render life-saving prescribed antibiotics less effective in humans, complicating the treatment of common infections. Furthermore, the runoff from these farms can seep into local water systems, further spreading resistance-building agents throughout the environment. To combat these risks, the research team is calling for the implementation of stricter regulations and more robust monitoring of the aquaculture industry. They strongly advise fish farmers to consult with veterinary institutions and fisheries experts before administering any medicinal treatments. Beyond chemical interventions, the researchers are advocating for a shift toward organic disease management practices and improved biosecurity measures. By emphasizing education and responsible farming, the goal is to protect the long-term viability of the fish farming industry while safeguarding the health of the Ghanaian public and the integrity of the natural environment.

Samuel Cudjoe Hanu — Acting Head of Research, MHA
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Mental Health Authority Urges Men to Break Silence and Seek Help Amid Rising Suicide Rates in Ghana

The Mental Health Authority (MHA) has issued a passionate plea to men across Ghana to confront the stigma surrounding mental health and speak openly about their psychological struggles. During a mental health outreach program organized by Mental Health 4 Men (M4M Ghana), Samuel Cudjoe Hanu, the acting Head of Research at the MHA, revealed the staggering scale of the crisis, noting that over 2.3 million people in Ghana are currently living with various mental health conditions. With alarming statistics indicating a significant rise in depression and suicide rates among men, the initiative underscores the urgent need for a shift in national attitudes toward emotional well-being. Central to the campaign is the challenge against long-standing cultural and societal norms that equate masculinity with emotional stoicism. Mr. Hanu emphasized that the pressure on men to appear "strong" often forces them to suffer in silence, exacerbating conditions like stress and depression until they reach a breaking point. He stressed that mental health challenges are medical conditions that are treatable with professional intervention. By encouraging men to share their experiences and recognize early warning signs, the MHA and M4M Ghana hope to dismantle the barriers of shame that prevent many from accessing life-saving care. To facilitate this transition from silence to support, the Mental Health Authority is promoting the use of a toll-free helpline for individuals in distress, offering immediate access to professional guidance. The outreach program also focuses on building supportive community networks where men can discuss their challenges without fear of judgment. As Ghana continues to grapple with the rising prevalence of mental illness, health officials maintain that early help-seeking and robust community support are vital components in reducing the rate of suicide and ensuring a healthier, more resilient male population.

Nana Samuel A. Tobbin — President of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Ghana
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PMAG President Nana Samuel A. Tobbin Urges Heightened Pharmaceutical Standards Amid Flooding to Protect Public Health

The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Ghana (PMAG) has issued a critical call to its member companies to maintain rigorous quality standards to prevent the contamination of pharmaceutical products. This directive comes in response to recent flooding incidents across the country that have raised significant concerns regarding the integrity and safety of the national medicine supply. PMAG President Nana Samuel A. Tobbin emphasized that pharmaceutical security is a fundamental pillar of public health, warning that any compromise in manufacturing or storage standards during environmental crises could have dire consequences for Ghanaian patients. Highlighting the current vulnerability of the health sector, PMAG noted that Ghana remains heavily dependent on external sources, importing over 70 percent of its essential medicines. This high level of import reliance makes the safety and quality of locally manufactured products even more paramount to national health security. The association is advocating for increased investment in research and advanced technology to move production beyond basic generics. By enhancing local manufacturing capabilities and implementing strict self-regulation, PMAG aims to reduce the nation's reliance on foreign imports and ensure that all medications produced within the country are safe, effective, and resilient to environmental hazards. Looking toward the future of the industry, the association is already planning for "PMAG Day 2026," scheduled for July 28, 2026, under the theme "Advancing Ghana's pharmaceutical sovereignty through innovation." This upcoming event is intended to serve as a strategic platform for stakeholders to assess methods for strengthening the local sector and fostering the specialized skills necessary to position Ghana as a preeminent pharmaceutical hub within the West African sub-region. The initiative underscores a long-term commitment to achieving self-sufficiency and driving industrial growth within the healthcare space. Beyond immediate public health safety, the expansion of the local pharmaceutical industry is expected to yield significant economic dividends. PMAG, which currently represents over 30 companies and employs more than 5,000 people, remains focused on creating a robust industrial value chain. This strategy is designed to not only generate sustainable jobs but also improve the overall affordability of healthcare by providing Ghanaians with easier access to locally produced, high-quality treatments. Through continuous advocacy and stakeholder collaboration, the association continues to champion the production of medications that meet international safety benchmarks.

Autism Awareness Care and Training Centre Calls on Government to Establish Community-Based Support Units
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Autism Awareness Care and Training Centre Calls on Government to Establish Community-Based Support Units

The Autism Awareness Care and Training Centre (AACT) has issued a passionate appeal to the Ghanaian government to decentralize autism services by establishing dedicated units within local communities. Speaking at the Centre’s annual arts and crafts exhibition, Mr. Abeiku Grant, a veteran advocate with 19 years of experience, emphasized that the current scarcity of specialized facilities places an immense physical and financial burden on families. He argued that bringing support services closer to home is essential for ensuring that individuals on the autism spectrum receive consistent care without the added stress of long-distance travel, which is particularly prevalent for those living in rural areas. The call for community-based intervention highlights a significant gap in Ghana's healthcare and social support infrastructure. Mr. Grant pointed out that many families are forced to travel great distances to access the few available centers, which often leads to inconsistent therapy or the complete withdrawal from support systems due to exhaustion and cost. Beyond clinical care, he stressed the importance of social exposure, noting that autistic children thrive when they are integrated into their communities rather than isolated. By establishing local units, the government could provide a platform for early diagnosis, continuous training, and much-needed respite for caregivers who often manage the complexities of autism with limited institutional assistance. Echoing these sentiments, the Centre’s Coordinator, Mr. Joseph Larmie, urged the public and policymakers to shift their perception of autism from a limitation to a different form of potential. He referenced historically successful figures as evidence that individuals on the spectrum can make profound contributions to society when provided with the right tools and an inclusive environment. The exhibition itself served as a tangible testament to this potential, showcasing the creative talents and crafts of the 22 learners currently enrolled at the Centre. Mr. Larmie advocated for targeted government interventions that go beyond awareness, calling for concrete resources that empower families and foster a society where every child can flourish regardless of their neurological profile. Having operated for 28 years, the Autism Awareness Care and Training Centre continues to lead the charge in advocacy and skills development through its workshops and training programs. However, as the demand for services grows, the advocates maintain that non-governmental organizations cannot bridge the gap alone. As President John Mahama’s administration continues to shape its healthcare agenda, the establishment of state-supported community units remains a critical priority for advocates. Such a move would represent a landmark step toward a more equitable healthcare system, ensuring that the rights and dignity of individuals with autism are upheld in every corner of the country.