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.

Asantehene Launches $100 Million Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence in Ashanti Region
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Asantehene Launches $100 Million Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence in Ashanti Region

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially launched the construction of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence (OOTII CCCoE) in Kwaso, located within the Ejisu Municipality of the Ashanti Region. This landmark $100 million facility represents a significant milestone in Ghana's healthcare sector, as it is designed to be a premier hub for cancer treatment, care, and advanced medical research. The project aims to drastically improve access to specialized oncology services, addressing a critical gap in the nation's current medical infrastructure. Strategically positioned to serve both local patients and the broader West African sub-region, the $100 million investment will provide state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment equipment. By centralizing high-end oncology services, the centre seeks to offer international standards of care within Ghana, thereby reducing the need for patients to seek expensive medical treatment abroad. The facility's focus on research is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to develop treatment protocols specifically tailored to the genetic and environmental factors prevalent in African populations. The development of the OOTII CCCoE at Kwaso is expected to have a transformative impact on public health by promoting early detection and providing comprehensive management of various cancer types. Beyond its clinical functions, the centre is poised to become a vital institution for medical education, training a new generation of oncologists and researchers. This capacity-building aspect is essential for the long-term sustainability of cancer care in Ghana and will enhance the expertise of the local healthcare workforce. As construction work proceeds, the initiative stands as a testament to the commitment of the Manhyia Palace toward social development and healthcare excellence. Once fully operational, the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence is expected to alleviate the burden on existing tertiary hospitals, such as the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, by providing a dedicated environment for specialized care. This project not only honors the Asantehene’s legacy but also offers a new beacon of hope for thousands of cancer patients across the West African region.

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Democratic Republic of Congo Initiates Ebola Vaccination for Frontline Health Workers Amid Rapid Outbreak

Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have officially commenced a targeted vaccination campaign to protect frontline workers from the Ebola virus. The initiative began on Saturday in Bunia, the provincial capital of Ituri, as officials respond to an escalating health crisis and a rising death toll. This rollout is considered a critical step in the nation's immediate efforts to curb a surge in infections and provide a safety net for those directly managing the crisis on the ground. The vaccination effort specifically targets healthcare professionals who are at the highest risk of exposure while treating infected patients. By prioritizing those on the front lines, the DRC health ministry aims to ensure that the medical infrastructure remains functional and that the virus does not spread further within clinical settings. The province of Ituri is currently the epicenter of what medical experts describe as the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history, making the timely administration of this new vaccine a matter of extreme urgency for local and regional stability. As the death toll continues to rise, the rollout in Bunia serves as a vital defensive measure in a complex public health landscape. The deployment of this vaccine highlights the evolving strategies being used to manage viral hemorrhagic fevers in the DRC, focusing on containment at the source. Moving forward, the success of this campaign in Ituri will be essential for stabilizing the region and preventing the further transmission of the disease to neighboring provinces and countries. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely as they work to expand the reach of the protection program.

Harriet Nuamah Agyemang (2nd from right), Country Director of SEND Ghana, exchanging pleasantries with Dr Hafiz Adam Taher (3rd from right), the Director of Technical Coordination at the Ministry of Health, after the launch of the Mass Media Campaign on Front-of-Pack Warning Labelling. With them are other dignitaries. Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
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Ghana Launches Mass Media Campaign for Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to Combat Rising NCDs

In a decisive move to address the escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana, a new mass media campaign has been launched in Accra to advocate for a Front-of-Pack Warning Labelling (FOPWL) system. The initiative comes as World Health Organisation (WHO) data reveals a sobering health landscape: approximately 2.4 million Ghanaians are currently living with diabetes, with 7.5% of the adult population affected by Type 2 diabetes. Currently, NCDs account for approximately 45% of all deaths in the country, prompting urgent calls for systemic changes in how food products are marketed and consumed. Spearheaded by SEND Ghana with the support of various health organizations, the campaign focuses on the implementation of clear, accessible labels on the front of packaged foods. These labels are designed to provide immediate transparency, alerting consumers to high levels of sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats that are often obscured by complex nutritional tables or misleading marketing claims. By requiring these warning signs, the initiative aims to empower Ghanaians to make informed dietary choices at the point of purchase, effectively countering the 'killer foods' that contribute significantly to the national disease burden. Health officials and advocates involved in the launch emphasized a critical shift in strategy, prioritizing preventative measures over the high costs and logistical challenges of long-term medical treatment. The campaign is not only a push for regulatory transparency but also an educational drive to dismantle misleading food marketing practices that often target vulnerable populations. Officials stressed that while clinical care is necessary, the most sustainable way to reduce NCD mortality is through a radical transformation of the national food environment and individual eating habits. As the campaign gains momentum, organizers are calling on the public to actively engage with food information and demand greater transparency from manufacturers. The success of the FOPWL system will depend on both consumer vigilance and the government's willingness to enforce stricter labeling standards. This initiative represents a broader vision for public health in Ghana, where a combination of policy intervention and public awareness serves as the primary defense against the growing epidemic of lifestyle-related illnesses.

A nurse in blue scrubs attends to a Ghana Armed Forces officer in camouflage uniform during a blood donation drive. Another donor in a black shirt lies on an adjacent bed in a clean, white-curtained medical facility.
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GAF Critical Care and Emergency Hospital Conducts Blood Donation Drive to Boost Life-Saving Reserves

The Ghana Armed Forces Critical Care and Emergency Hospital (GAFCCEH) successfully conducted a major blood donation exercise on September 18, 2026, aimed at shoring up the facility's reserves for emergency medical interventions. Held at the hospital's dedicated Blood Bank and Transfusion Services Centre, the initiative sought to address the persistent need for blood products required to treat patients in life-threatening conditions. By mobilizing both military personnel and the general public, the hospital aimed to ensure that its specialized emergency services are never hampered by a shortage of vital blood supplies. Stressing the urgency of the situation, Colonel Timothy Nyaaba-Nsobila explained that the high-intensity nature of critical care services at the facility results in an unceasing demand for blood. This sentiment was echoed by John Ani-Amponsah, the Chief Medical Biochemist Scientist at GAFCCEH, who highlighted that patients with severe trauma, surgical needs, or complex medical conditions rely heavily on a well-stocked blood bank. The hospital leadership emphasized that having an adequate supply of various blood groups is not merely a logistical goal but a fundamental component of their ability to save lives during medical crises. The drive was designed as a holistic health event, incorporating comprehensive health screenings for all prospective donors to ensure their fitness and well-being before the extraction process. This approach served a dual purpose: securing high-quality blood for the hospital while providing valuable health insights to the participants. As the exercise concluded, GAFCCEH officials called on the broader Ghanaian community to embrace a culture of voluntary blood donation, noting that regular contributions are essential to maintaining national health security and supporting the critical work of emergency medical facilities across the country.

Zoonotic diseases
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Ghana Urged to Adopt "One Health" Model to Combat Zoonotic Disease Outbreaks

Ghana is facing a critical call to adopt a "One Health" approach to better manage zoonotic diseases—illnesses that jump from animals to humans. Experts warn that the current fragmented response system, which often operates in silos across different sectors, leads to dangerous delays and inefficiencies in outbreak management. As zoonotic infections remain common in Ghana and the threat of future pandemics looms, integrating the efforts of veterinary, medical, and environmental professionals has become an urgent national health priority. The One Health model advocates for a unified framework that promotes collaboration across disciplines, emphasizing that the health of humans is inextricably linked to the health of animals and the shared environment. Key pillars of this strategy include establishing joint surveillance programs, sharing laboratory resources, and fostering robust community engagement. By involving local communities in early warning systems, the country can identify potential outbreaks at their source before they escalate into national crises, saving both lives and economic resources. Despite the existence of theoretical frameworks for this integrated approach, the transition to a functional system requires more than just policy documents. Consistent political will and dedicated financial support are essential to bridge the gap between planning and action. With climate change further accelerating disease transmission patterns and altering wildlife habitats, there is an urgent need for the government to invest in this multidisciplinary infrastructure to protect public health in an increasingly volatile environment. Ultimately, the success of the One Health initiative depends on a collective commitment from both policy makers and citizens. Ensuring that environmental protections and veterinary services are as prioritized as clinical medicine will create a more resilient health architecture for the nation. As Ghana looks toward future-proofing its healthcare system under the current administration, the "One Health" strategy offers the most viable path toward preventing and managing the next major biological threat effectively.

Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Charges Military Nurses to Uphold Excellence at 2026 Nightingales’ Celebration
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Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Charges Military Nurses to Uphold Excellence at 2026 Nightingales’ Celebration

The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has called on Ghanaian military nurses and midwives to maintain the highest standards of professional excellence and compassion. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Military Nightingales’ Week Celebration, the Deputy Minister emphasized the unique and critical role military medical personnel play in the nation's healthcare delivery system. The week-long event served as a platform for professional development and a tribute to the dedicated service of both active-duty and retired nursing staff within the Ghana Armed Forces. During her address, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah underscored the necessity of empathy in patient care, urging practitioners to "go forth, continue to care, excel and serve." She noted that the technical skills of nursing must be balanced with a deep sense of humanity, particularly in the disciplined environment of the military. The celebration highlighted the contributions of various healthcare professionals who have significantly impacted the sector, reinforcing the government's recognition of their hard work and sacrifice. A key focus of the Minister’s speech was the importance of institutional memory and mentorship. She encouraged the military nursing fraternity to actively engage retired nurses, utilizing their wealth of experience to guide and mentor the next generation of practitioners. By bridging the gap between seasoned veterans and new recruits, the Ministry aims to ensure that the traditions of discipline and high-quality care associated with military medicine are preserved and enhanced. Concluding her remarks, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah reaffirmed the Ministry of Health's commitment to the welfare of military health workers. She assured the personnel that the government remains dedicated to supporting their professional growth through ongoing training and improved resources. This assurance of support is expected to bolster morale as the military medical corps continues to provide essential health services to both the armed forces and the general public across Ghana.

Dr Francis Addai (left), Family Physician at FOCOS Orthopaedic Hospital, Dr Efua Commeh (middle), Municipal Director for the Madina La-Nkwantanan Municipal Directorate, and Edinam Aku Numadzi (right), a dietician at the FOCOS Hospital, during a panel discussion on the World Patient Safety launch
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World Patient Safety Day Commemoration in Accra Highlights Strategies for Managing Non-Communicable Diseases

World Patient Safety Day was recently commemorated in Pantang, Accra, as healthcare stakeholders gathered to address the critical intersection of patient safety and the management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The event served as a platform to advocate for enhanced healthcare protocols and more robust patient engagement strategies within Ghana's medical landscape. Amidst growing concerns over the prevalence of chronic conditions, experts emphasized that patient safety must remain a cornerstone of clinical practice to ensure better health outcomes and reduce avoidable harm. During the event, Dr. Arthur Sackey Fio from Focos Hospital highlighted the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. He urged for comprehensive strategies that involve every tier of the healthcare workforce, from administrative staff to specialist physicians. Central to his message was the importance of effective communication and safe medication practices, particularly for patients managing long-term conditions where the risk of medication errors is heightened. By fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration, the healthcare sector can significantly mitigate the risks associated with the clinical management of NCDs. The urgency of the discussion was underscored by recent health data, including a 2023 survey that revealed alarmingly high rates of hypertension among Ghanaian adults. This statistic highlights a broader public health challenge, as NCDs continue to exert a heavy burden on the national healthcare system. Speakers at the commemoration pointed out that lifestyle modifications and preventive healthcare measures are essential tools in reducing NCD risks. They called for increased public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the importance of regular screenings and early intervention, which are vital components of a patient-centered safety framework. As the commemoration concluded, the call to action was clear: improving patient safety requires an active partnership between healthcare providers and the patients themselves. Empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment journeys is seen as a crucial step toward achieving higher safety standards. Moving forward, stakeholders expressed hope that the insights shared during the World Patient Safety Day activities would translate into concrete policy changes and improved clinical guidelines, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s healthcare delivery system for the benefit of all citizens.

Doctors and other paramedics at work
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Operation Smile Ghana Provides Life-Changing Surgeries for 50 Children at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital

Operation Smile Ghana has successfully completed a week-long medical mission at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH), providing free corrective surgeries to 50 children born with cleft lip and cleft palate. This initiative followed a rigorous screening process where 110 patients were evaluated for the procedure. The mission is part of an ambitious nationwide campaign by the organization, which aims to perform a total of 420 surgeries across the country this year to address the backlog of untreated cleft conditions and restore the smiles and confidence of affected children. Since establishing its presence in Ghana in 2011, Operation Smile has been a pivotal force in enhancing access to specialized cleft care. Beyond providing immediate surgical interventions, the organization is deeply committed to dispelling the deep-seated social stigma often attached to cleft conditions. Medical officials emphasize that cleft lip and palate are entirely treatable medical conditions and should not be a source of shame. For many of the families who benefited from this mission, the surgeries represent more than just a physical correction; they offer a chance for their children to lead normal lives without the burden of social exclusion or verbal abuse in their communities. A significant component of this year's initiative is the focus on sustainability through local capacity building. Operation Smile Ghana is actively training Ghanaian medical professionals—including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses—to ensure that specialized cleft care remains available long after specific missions conclude. The Country Medical Director revealed that the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital is being equipped to launch its own independent, year-round cleft-care program by the end of 2025. This development is expected to significantly reduce the travel burden for families in the Central Region and surrounding areas, providing a permanent local resource for high-quality, specialized pediatric surgical care.

Why aren’t African churches building hospitals? — Leila Jewel Djansi
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Filmmaker Leila Djansi Critiques African Churches for Prioritizing Luxury Buildings Over Healthcare Investment

Renowned Ghanaian-American filmmaker Leila Jewel Djansi has sparked a public conversation regarding the financial priorities of wealthy African churches, criticizing the trend of investing in opulent cathedrals while the continent's healthcare infrastructure remains underdeveloped. In a pointed social media address, Djansi highlighted the irony of religious organizations that emphasize spiritual warfare against 'foreign gods' yet see their leaders and wealthy members travel to countries like India to seek advanced medical treatment. Her critique centers on the disconnect between the rhetoric of faith-based healing and the practical reality of medical necessity that many high-profile figures face when confronted with serious illness. Djansi specifically challenged churches to rethink how they utilize tithes and donations, suggesting that these funds would be better served by establishing hospitals, schools, and specialized training facilities. She drew a sharp contrast between modern mega-churches and the historical contributions of Catholic and Adventist organizations, which have a long-standing record of building and maintaining healthcare institutions that serve the general public. By referencing the case of the late TB Joshua as an example of the reliance on foreign medical intervention, Djansi argued that the current model of church spending focuses too heavily on transient projects and aesthetic luxury rather than lasting community benefits. The filmmaker’s call to action emphasizes a shift toward sustainable, long-term solutions for Africa’s social challenges. She urged religious leaders to move beyond the construction of grand architectural monuments and instead focus on creating the 'tangible' blessings of modern medicine and education for their congregations. While acknowledging the role of faith, Djansi insisted that prayer should be accompanied by actionable contributions to society. She believes that if the immense resources gathered by African churches were channeled into healthcare, the continent would be less dependent on foreign nations for the survival of its citizens and leaders alike.

Jehovah's Witnesses keep whole blood ban but allow personal choice on components
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Jehovah’s Witnesses Revise Policy to Allow Personal Choice on Blood Components while Maintaining Whole-Blood Ban

The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses has announced a major shift in its medical guidance, officially allowing its nine million members worldwide to make personal decisions regarding the use of blood components. While the long-standing prohibition on whole-blood transfusions remains in effect due to religious beliefs, this new directive permits individuals to accept or donate specific components—including red cells, white cells, plasma, and platelets—based on their personal conscience. This significant update, announced in September 2026, emphasizes that while life and blood are considered sacred, medical choices regarding blood-derived products should be a matter of individual faith. Under the revised policy, the organization acknowledges that each member must take personal responsibility for medical treatments involving blood derivatives. This update empowers members to seek medical care that aligns with their values, and the Governing Body has stated that congregations will support these individual decisions. This marks a departure from previous, more rigid interpretations, although the fundamental opposition to the donation of blood for the purpose of whole-blood transfusions is still strictly maintained. Geoffrey W. Jackson, a member of the Governing Body, indicated that these decisions are now left to the conscience of the individual believer. The recent change follows a series of incremental updates to the organization's stance on medical procedures. Earlier revisions had already permitted members to store their own blood for personal medical use only. By distinguishing between whole blood and its primary fractions, the organization allows members to access specialized medical treatments, such as those involving plasma or platelets, which are frequently used in modern surgery and trauma care. This evolution in doctrine reflects an attempt to balance biblical adherence with the realities of contemporary medicine. This policy shift is expected to have significant implications for healthcare providers and Jehovah's Witness patients globally, particularly in the management of complex surgeries and emergency treatments. By categorizing the use of blood components as a matter of conscience, the organization simplifies the ethical landscape for doctors who previously faced challenges when treating Witness patients. For many members, this change provides a clear religious path to receiving life-saving treatments that were once viewed as being in direct conflict with their faith.

Operation Smile and Corporate Partners Expand Health Access as Mafi Kope Residents Appeal for Help with Mysterious Illness
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Operation Smile and Corporate Partners Expand Health Access as Mafi Kope Residents Appeal for Help with Mysterious Illness

Ghana’s healthcare landscape is currently marked by a mix of specialized surgical interventions, community-level screenings, and urgent calls for medical investigations into unexplained ailments. In a major boost to pediatric care, Operation Smile Ghana has successfully provided free cleft lip and palate surgeries to 50 children at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. This initiative, part of a broader target to conduct 420 surgeries this year, highlights a significant effort to bridge the gap in specialized medical services while addressing the social stigma often faced by children with these treatable conditions. The week-long program followed the screening of 110 patients and underscores the organization’s commitment to restoring the confidence of affected youth. The Operation Smile mission, which has operated in Ghana since 2011, is increasingly focusing on long-term sustainability by training local medical professionals. According to the Country Medical Director, the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital is being equipped to launch its own independent cleft-care program by the end of 2025, a move that will significantly improve access for families in the central and western regions. This focus on local capacity building is mirrored in other sectors of the health industry, such as the recent collaboration between Unicom Chemist Limited and the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL). For the second consecutive year, Unicom Chemist donated essential supplies, including anti-malarial drugs, cervical collars, and glucometers, to support free health screenings for residents of Adabraka, emphasizing the critical role of corporate social responsibility in promoting preventive health. However, as urban and institutional care sees progress, rural communities like Mafi Kope in the Oti Region are grappling with alarming health crises that demand immediate attention. Residents have issued an urgent appeal to health authorities regarding a mysterious illness that has left both children and adults struggling with sores, hearing loss, and impaired mobility. The condition has significantly disrupted the education of local children, many of whom are now unable to walk to school. While community members report multiple visits to health facilities without receiving a definitive diagnosis, Municipal Health Disease Control Officer Paul Angwaawie has indicated that a comprehensive study is required to determine if the symptoms stem from nutritional deficiencies or other recurrent environmental factors. These developments underscore the ongoing challenges and successes within Ghana’s diagnostic and public health infrastructure. From the life-altering surgeries in Cape Coast to the unexplained medical cases in Mafi Kope—and even historical reminders of severe health setbacks like that of popular radio presenter Linsford Kwabena Asare (Otwinoko), who lost his sight following a mysterious illness—the need for robust screening and rapid response is clear. Moving forward, strengthening the synergy between non-governmental organizations, corporate donors, and state health facilities remains essential to ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of location, can access both routine care and specialized life-saving interventions.

Kwabena Mintah Akand­oh, the Minister of Health, speaking at the Conference in Bolgatanga
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Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Urges Efficiency as GH¢1.5 Billion is Allocated for Free Primary Health Care

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has called for the prudent management of resources dedicated to the Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) program, warning that the initiative's success depends on the efficiency of its implementers. Speaking at the 33rd Annual General Conference of the District Directors of Health Services in Bolgatanga, the Minister revealed that the government has allocated GH¢1.5 billion from domestic resources to fund the initiative. He cautioned health directors that mismanagement could jeopardize the policy, emphasizing that this investment is a critical step toward ensuring accessible healthcare for all Ghanaians. To support the rollout of the FPHC, the Ministry has commenced the distribution of over 25,500 pieces of medical equipment, alongside essential logistics such as motorbikes and tricycles designed to enhance service delivery in remote areas. Minister Akandoh noted that district directors play a pivotal role in the actualization of healthcare policies on the ground. He stressed that the FPHC program is not merely about clinical treatment but prioritizes prevention and health promotion as key pillars for improving national health outcomes. Complementing the national policy drive, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has intensified its public education efforts, specifically within the Western North Region. The authority recently conducted refresher training for District Managers and Public Relations Officers (PROs) across eight districts to ensure they are equipped to communicate the nuances of the FPHC and the new One-Time Attendance Code (OTAC) system. Acting Regional Director Frank Duku emphasized that clear, accurate communication is essential for public trust and the effective utilization of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Regional leadership within the NHIA has highlighted the necessity of aligning operations with public relations to streamline service delivery. Dr. Isaac Damptey, the Regional Operations Manager, noted that bridging the gap between technical operations and public outreach will help resolve bottlenecks in the field. By utilizing diverse communication platforms, the NHIA aims to ensure that residents in the Western North Region and beyond are fully aware of their benefits under the expanded health coverage frameworks. As the government pushes forward with these multi-faceted health reforms, officials have echoed the need for transparency and innovative resource management. The integration of high-level policy funding with grassroots communication strategies suggests a comprehensive approach to achieving universal health coverage. The success of these initiatives will ultimately be measured by the quality of service provided at the district level and the ability of health officials to maintain accountability in the face of increased domestic expenditure.