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.

LCB Worldwide Partners with Ghana Health Service for Massive Post-Flood Fumigation Exercise in Accra
health|

LCB Worldwide Partners with Ghana Health Service for Massive Post-Flood Fumigation Exercise in Accra

Crisis management firm LCB Worldwide Ghana Limited has joined forces with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to execute a comprehensive fumigation operation across the Korle Klottey Municipality in Accra. Launched on July 11, 2026, the initiative is designed to disinfect critical public spaces, including major markets and transport terminals, to mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks following recent heavy rainfall and flooding. This large-scale exercise serves as a vital component of the national effort to safeguard public health during a period of heightened environmental vulnerability. The fumigation drive aligns with the broader National General Cleaning Exercise recently announced by President John Dramani Mahama. By targeting high-traffic areas where sanitation risks are most acute, LCB Worldwide and GHS aim to provide a proactive defense against the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases such as cholera and malaria. Representatives from LCB Worldwide emphasized that the initiative is part of the company's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to supporting the government’s environmental sanitation priorities and ensuring the safety of Ghanaian citizens. Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, lauded the intervention, stating that the nation "doesn't need cholera before we act." This sentiment underscores a strategic shift toward preventative health measures rather than waiting for a crisis to unfold. Supporting this view, the Municipal Chief Executive for Korle Klottey, Alfred Allotey-Gaisie, highlighted that while fumigation is a critical step, the long-term success of these efforts depends heavily on sustained community involvement and a collective responsibility toward maintaining cleanliness in the city’s markets and public hubs. LCB Worldwide has a documented history of stepping in during national health emergencies, having previously played a significant role in disinfection efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. This latest collaboration with the GHS reinforces the importance of public-private partnerships in building resilient health systems. As the rainy season continues, officials hope that this rigorous disinfection program, combined with increased public awareness and community-led sanitation efforts, will effectively curb the threat of seasonal epidemics and improve the overall quality of life in the capital.

Dr Sebastian N. Sandaare (3rd from left), Vice-Chair of Parliament’s Health Committee; William Moore (5th from left), Chief Executive Officer, Eleanor Crook Foundation, with other stakeholders after the meeting
health|

Ghana and Sierra Leone Strengthen Public Health Frameworks Through Nutrition Advocacy and Digital Surveillance

West African nations are taking significant steps to bolster public health, with Ghana and Sierra Leone launching initiatives to address malnutrition and enhance disease surveillance. In Ghana, a strategic partnership between the government and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is tackling the critical issue of child malnutrition, while Sierra Leone has introduced a mandatory digital health declaration system for all international travelers. These moves reflect a growing regional commitment to both long-term human development and immediate pandemic preparedness. The malnutrition crisis in Ghana remains a pressing concern, where 10% of children are severely stunted and nearly 10% are wasted. Recent deliberations between the Eleanor Crook Foundation, the WOMEC network, and Ghanaian parliamentarians have underscored the need for integrated strategies to protect women and children. Dr. Sebastian N. Sandaare, a prominent health advocate, emphasized that nutrition is a pillar of national development, directly impacting education and economic growth. William Moore of the Eleanor Crook Foundation identified malnutrition as a primary driver of child mortality, calling for the deployment of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods as a vital intervention to save lives. Concurrently, Sierra Leone is modernizing its border health protocols to prevent the cross-border spread of infectious diseases. As of June 18, 2023, the government has mandated that all travelers—including visitors, residents, and citizens—complete an online Health Declaration Form via a dedicated travel portal within 72 hours of their journey. The system generates a QR code that must be presented to authorities upon arrival or departure. This digital shift aims to streamline health screenings and ensure that accurate travel data is available for real-time disease surveillance and response, with designated personnel on-site to assist those navigating the new requirements. These developments in Ghana and Sierra Leone highlight a multi-pronged approach to public health in West Africa. By addressing the "silent emergency" of malnutrition and the logistical challenges of disease monitoring, both nations are working toward more resilient health systems. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued international collaboration, the availability of therapeutic resources, and the consistent application of digital tools to safeguard the well-being of the population and travelers alike.

Dr Hafiz Adams (left), Director, Technical Coordination, MOH; Dr (Med.) George Kojo Owusu (2nd from left), CEO of NAS; Dr Dominic Awariya (2nd from right), Ashanti Regional Coordinator, NAS, and Dr Lawrence Ofori Boadu (right), Director of the Institutional Care Division-GHS, and other dignitaries. Picture: ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
health|

Health Ministry to Procure 400 New Ambulances and Mandate CCTV Installations Nationwide

Ghana's health sector is set for a significant transformation as authorities move to address critical gaps in emergency response and workplace security. The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has sounded an alarm over its ageing fleet, prompting plans for the procurement of 400 new ambulances and a specialized rapid response motorbike unit. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health has issued a mandatory directive for the installation of CCTV systems across all public health facilities to protect healthcare professionals from increasing incidents of violence. These twin initiatives represent a strategic effort to modernize Ghana’s medical infrastructure while ensuring the safety of those providing essential services. The National Ambulance Service is currently grappling with a fleet that has largely surpassed its optimal operational lifespan. According to Dr. Simon Akayiri Nyaaba, Deputy Director of PPRME at NAS, the majority of the 323 ambulances currently deployed across 319 sites were last updated in 2018, leading to frequent breakdowns and maintenance challenges. Dr. Nyaaba highlighted that delays in procuring spare parts have further hindered service efficiency. In response, NAS CEO Dr. George Kojo Owusu emphasized that the service is transitioning from a transport-oriented model to a comprehensive prehospital emergency care provider. The planned acquisition of 400 new vehicles and the introduction of a motorbike unit are expected to drastically improve response times and service reliability. Addressing the rising concerns regarding the safety of medical personnel, the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has mandated the immediate installation of CCTV cameras in all health facilities, ranging from Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds to major teaching hospitals. This directive aims to deter physical attacks and verbal abuse against staff, which have become a growing concern in the healthcare sector. The Minister assured that the implementation of these security systems would be supported by existing budget provisions, ensuring that financial challenges do not stall the rollout. This proactive measure is intended to create a more secure working environment, allowing medical staff to focus on patient care without fear of aggression. Together, these developments signal a pivotal shift in the management of Ghana's health services. By addressing the logistical bottlenecks of the ambulance fleet and the security vulnerabilities within hospital wards, the Ministry of Health and the NAS are working to build a more resilient and professional healthcare system. As the new ambulances are procured and surveillance systems are integrated, the focus remains on professional development and the continuous improvement of emergency systems to meet the needs of the Ghanaian population effectively.

Madam Zenabu Dagomba (2nd from left) with officials of SSNIT at the ceremony
health|

SSNIT and Offinso North District Assembly Expand Social Support and Health Initiatives for Vulnerable Groups

In a significant boost to social welfare and healthcare accessibility in Ghana, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and the Offinso North District Assembly have launched initiatives targeting the nation’s most vulnerable populations. These efforts, ranging from celebrating longevity to providing direct economic and medical aid, underscore a growing national commitment to social inclusion and the health of the elderly and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Central to these developments is the recognition of Madam Ima Zenabu Dagomba, Ghana’s oldest female pensioner, and the distribution of essential livelihood and medical resources to over 100 individuals in the Ashanti Region. The celebration of Madam Ima Zenabu Dagomba, who recently turned 100, highlights the long-term impact of the national pension scheme. Born on July 1, 1926, Madam Dagomba has been on the SSNIT pension payroll for 33 years, a milestone the Trust marked by visiting her home to emphasize the dignity that financial security provides in old age. Beyond the celebration, SSNIT’s Deputy Director-General used the occasion to advocate for the enrollment of informal sector workers, ensuring they too can benefit from future security. Notably, the Trust is introducing a telehealth service specifically designed to improve healthcare access for pensioners, bridging the gap between social security and medical well-being. Simultaneously, the Offinso North District Assembly has extended vital support to 122 PWDs through a program funded by the District Assemblies Common Fund. This initiative focuses on economic empowerment and social integration, providing beneficiaries with a mix of cash grants, vocational tools, and educational materials. District Chief Executive Hon. Ceaser Ofosu Acheampong revealed that 45 individuals received business equipment, 60 were given cash for business expansion, and 10 students received educational support. Crucially, the package included direct medical assistance, addressing the specific health barriers that often hinder the economic participation of persons with disabilities. These dual efforts reflect a broader strategy to reduce poverty and foster self-sufficiency through targeted interventions. By combining financial support with health-focused initiatives like telehealth and medical grants, Ghanaian authorities are moving toward a more holistic model of social protection. Moving forward, the Offinso North District Assembly has pledged regular monitoring of the beneficiaries to ensure the sustainability of their businesses, while SSNIT continues its community outreach to make social security services more relatable and accessible to the average Ghanaian worker. These steps collectively aim to ensure that no citizen, regardless of age or physical ability, is left behind in the country’s development agenda.

Doris Anum-Dorhuso, the 61-year-old with her daughter, Naa Dromo, the two medical specialists that saw her through the process - Dr Richard Asamoah (extreme right), Specialist Obsterician Gynaecologist and Stem Cell Practitioner, and Dr Davis Kofie Adedze (middle), Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mary-Lucy Hospital, Awoshie in Accra, at the press conference. On the extreme left is Christian Owusu-Boateng, Chief Administrator of the hospital
health|

Doris Anum-Dorhuso Delivers First Baby at 61 via Advanced IVF Amid Calls for Comprehensive Maternal Mental Health Support

In a landmark achievement for fertility medicine in Ghana, 61-year-old Doris Anum-Dorhuso has successfully given birth to her first child, a daughter named Naa Dromo. This historic event occurred at Mary-Lucy Hospital in Accra on July 2, 2026, following a specialized Stem Cell-Enhanced In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) procedure. Mrs. Anum-Dorhuso, who had previously been told she had no chance of conception due to her advanced age and a history of fibroid surgery, welcomed her baby just days before her 62nd birthday. The successful delivery marks a significant milestone in assisted reproductive technology within the country, showcasing the potential of modern science to overcome long-standing barriers to motherhood. Hospital officials have hailed the birth as a breakthrough that offers renewed hope to women struggling with infertility across the region. The use of stem cell enhancement in the IVF process represents an evolving frontier in local medical practice, addressing complex reproductive cases that were once deemed impossible. According to medical staff, the pregnancy proceeded without complications, demonstrating the potential of advanced reproductive treatments to expand the window of childbearing for Ghanaian women. This achievement underscores the growing capabilities of Ghana's health sector in delivering innovative solutions that align with global fertility standards. Alongside these physical medical advancements, health experts are emphasizing the critical psychological dimensions of the maternal journey. Counselling Psychologist Esther Kyewaa Opoku has highlighted the importance of recognizing that maternal mental health issues, particularly postpartum depression (PPD), can often begin during pregnancy rather than after childbirth. While the joy of a new birth like Mrs. Anum-Dorhuso's is celebrated, Opoku notes that significant hormonal shifts following conception influence a woman’s emotions, sleep patterns, and decision-making processes. She advocates for proactive mental health support, noting that the emotional well-being of the mother is as vital as the physical success of the pregnancy itself. The convergence of breakthrough fertility treatments and increased awareness of perinatal mental health highlights a more holistic approach to maternal care in Ghana. As technologies like Stem Cell-Enhanced IVF become more accessible, the medical community is urging a parallel focus on the psychological welfare of expectant and new mothers. For women whose journey to motherhood spans decades, the combination of advanced clinical intervention and robust mental health awareness ensures that the next generation of Ghanaian mothers is supported through every stage of their transformative experience.

Some of the residents displaying placards during the demonstration
health|

McCarthy Hill Residents Protest Waste Hazards as Environmental Experts Demand Urgent Reform of Ghana's Sanitation Sector

Residents of McCarthy Hill and the local landlords' association have intensified calls for the immediate removal of a former dumping site, citing severe public health risks and environmental degradation. During a recent demonstration, community members expressed frustration over slow remediation efforts and a persistent fly infestation that has compromised the quality of life in the area. Association spokesperson William Quartey emphasized that the stagnant waste poses ongoing risks to the community, particularly as the site is situated within a Ramsar-protected wetland. The residents are demanding that the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly and relevant environmental agencies provide a clear timeline for the full evacuation of refuse and the subsequent restoration of the land. The crisis at McCarthy Hill highlights a broader systemic failure in waste management across the country, which environmental experts argue is being exacerbated by the rise of informal waste collectors known as 'Aboboya.' Experts including Dr. Juliet Ohemeng Ntiamoah and Dr. Richard Fiadomor are advocating for a ban or stricter regulation of these tricycle operators. They contend that while these informal collectors are popular due to flexible pricing, they often lack the proper equipment for safe disposal, leading to unauthorized dumping in sensitive areas. Dr. Ntiamoah noted that these operators undermine the regulated waste management system and contribute to the very environmental hazards currently plaguing communities like McCarthy Hill. Addressing these challenges requires a two-pronged approach: immediate local intervention and long-term national policy reform. Residents in McCarthy Hill have requested urgent fumigation to control the fly infestation while the evacuation process is finalized. Concurrently, environmental experts are calling on the government to increase investment in formal waste management infrastructure and to enforce more rigorous oversight of licensed companies. The experts suggest that without a coordinated strategy to integrate or replace informal operators with a functional, well-funded system, Ghana will continue to face recurring issues of illegal dumping, flooding, and public health emergencies. Ultimately, the situation at McCarthy Hill serves as a microcosm of Ghana's sanitation struggles. The demand for the restoration of Ramsar-protected lands reflects a growing public consciousness regarding environmental preservation and its direct link to health outcomes. As the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly faces pressure to act, the national conversation continues to shift toward whether the 'Aboboya' model is sustainable or if a complete overhaul of the waste collection framework is necessary to protect the nation's environmental future.

Korle Bu seeks information from Mzbel following social media claims about sister's death
health|

Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Probes Mzbel’s Claims of Sister’s Death Over Alleged Bed Shortage

The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) has formally requested Ghanaian musician Mzbel to provide detailed information to facilitate an internal investigation into the death of her sister, Laila. The request follows a series of social media posts by the artist, in which she alleged that a lack of available beds at the facility—a persistent issue often referred to as 'no-bed syndrome'—contributed to her relative's passing. The hospital's management has expressed its intent to verify the details surrounding the patient's treatment and has reached out to the musician to assist in establishing the facts of the case. In an official statement released on July 7, 2026, the hospital management emphasized the seriousness with which it treats allegations concerning patient care and emergency services. While offering sincere condolences to the bereaved family, the administration highlighted its commitment to adhering to government directives regarding emergency patient care. These directives mandate that no patient in a critical condition should be turned away. The hospital has urged Mzbel to use its established complaint channels to provide the necessary information for a thorough and transparent review of the events leading to her sister's death. Mzbel has since responded to the hospital's statement, acknowledging the condolences while standing by her family's account of the incident. In a post shared on July 8, 2026, she expressed gratitude for the hospital's formal recognition of the tragedy but maintained that her concerns were rooted in the direct experience of her family during their time of crisis. Her response underscores a call for accountability and better management of emergency cases at the nation's premier teaching hospital to prevent future occurrences of such nature. This development has reignited public discourse regarding the healthcare system's capacity to handle emergencies and the impact of bed shortages on patient outcomes in Ghana. Korle Bu has assured the public that it will conduct a comprehensive investigation once it receives the specific details from the family. The outcome of this probe is expected to address the specific allegations raised and could lead to further scrutiny of emergency response protocols within the country's major healthcare institutions.

Some of the exhibits picked from one of the facilities visited
health|

Health Minister Declares Tapentadol Illegal as FDA Arrests Six in Crackdown on Illicit Substances

Ghana’s Ministry of Health and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) have intensified their joint efforts to combat the rise of illicit substance abuse across the country. In a major policy directive, the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has officially declared that pharmaceutical products containing tapentadol—widely known on the streets as "Red"—are unregistered and illegal for medical use in Ghana. This declaration coincides with a targeted enforcement operation by the FDA’s Tobacco and Substances of Abuse Directorate, which resulted in the arrest of six individuals for the sale of dangerous, unregistered substances in Nungua. The enforcement operation in Nungua targeted three entertainment venues following intelligence reports regarding the sale of prohibited products. During the raid, FDA officials seized quantities of nitrous oxide and Benylin cough syrup containing codeine, leading to the arrest of two suspects at each location. These individuals have since been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution. The FDA emphasized that these operations are part of its broader mandate to ensure product safety and protect the public from the devastating health consequences of substance misuse. Central to the government’s current health agenda is the total ban on tapentadol. Minister Akandoh clarified that no tapentadol products are currently included in Ghana’s Essential Medicines List, making their possession, distribution, or sale a criminal offense. The drug "Red," which is typically a potent mixture of tapentadol and cough syrup, has been identified as a significant public health risk. The Minister noted that the FDA has not registered any form of this opioid for clinical use, and its presence on the market poses a direct threat to the safety of Ghanaian citizens, particularly the youth. To ensure the effective removal of these substances from the market, the FDA is collaborating closely with the Pharmacy Council to conduct rigorous surveillance at retail pharmacies. This partnership aims to identify and seize unregistered medicines while educating retailers on the legal and health risks associated with opioid misuse. Authorities have established strict protocols for the safe disposal of seized products and warned that all offenders will face severe legal sanctions. Moving forward, the Ministry of Health and the FDA remain committed to sustained surveillance and public awareness campaigns to eradicate the illicit trade of dangerous narcotics.

Health Experts Issue Post-Flood Disease Warnings as Dr. Oduro Champions Salt Awareness
health|

Health Experts Issue Post-Flood Disease Warnings as Dr. Oduro Champions Salt Awareness

In the aftermath of the severe flooding that struck Accra on June 29, health and nutrition professionals have issued urgent warnings regarding the heightened risk of waterborne and foodborne diseases. Residents in affected areas are being cautioned that the disruption of sanitation systems has created ideal breeding grounds for pathogens, significantly increasing the likelihood of outbreaks such as cholera. Public health officials emphasize that immediate adherence to safety protocols is essential to preventing a surge in illness across the capital, as the contaminated environment poses a direct threat to community well-being. Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, Registered Dietitian Nana Ama Dwamena advised residents to be extremely selective about their food and water sources during this period. She specifically urged individuals to consume only hot, freshly cooked meals and to strictly avoid ready-to-eat items sold in open spaces, such as pre-cut fruits and salads. To minimize exposure to contaminated water, experts recommend drinking only treated or bottled water, noting that even sachet water can become unsafe if exposed to floodwaters. Regular handwashing and seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms like severe diarrhea and dehydration remain critical preventive measures to curb the spread of infection. Beyond the immediate environmental health threats, creative advocacy is also being used to tackle chronic lifestyle-related conditions in Ghana. Dr. Oduro, a Doctor of Pharmacy and renowned Hiplife musician, has launched a new health awareness campaign through his song "Gishiri," which means salt in Hausa. The initiative aims to educate the public on the dangers of excessive salt consumption, which is a leading contributor to high blood pressure and heart disease. Dr. Oduro, who rose to fame with hits like "Abiba," is utilizing his platform and the Dr. Oduro Foundation to bridge the gap between entertainment and healthcare education, supporting communities through both music and philanthropic initiatives. These concurrent health efforts—one reactive to environmental disasters and the other proactive against lifestyle diseases—highlight the multifaceted challenges facing Ghana's public health sector. While immediate vigilance is required to curb the threat of cholera in the wake of the June floods, long-term educational initiatives like those led by the Dr. Oduro Foundation are vital for improving the nation's overall health outcomes. Health authorities continue to urge the public to prioritize hygiene and moderate dietary habits to safeguard their well-being in both the short and long term.

Officials of Gold Fields Foundattion and World Vision Ghana inaugurating the water system for Damang community
health|

Ghana Healthcare Infrastructure Receives Boost with New Facilities and Water Systems in DBI, Tarkwa, and Cape Coast

Significant advancements in Ghana’s healthcare sector have been recorded across several districts, with local assemblies and international partners commissioning vital infrastructure to improve maternal and emergency medical services. In the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa (DBI) District, the Assembly has invested over GH¢300,000 to modernize healthcare delivery and expand water access. This initiative is mirrored in the Tarkwa Municipality, where the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation and World Vision have partnered to provide a solar-powered water system for the Damang community, specifically targeting healthcare and educational facilities to ensure sustainable clinical hygiene. The DBI District’s intervention addresses critical deficits, including the replacement of broken delivery beds—some of which were previously propped up by stones—with 10 modern medical beds. Furthermore, the Assembly completed a comprehensive renovation of a medical doctor’s bungalow at the Issa Polyclinic. This move allows Dr. Paschalina Langmagne, the district’s only medical doctor, to reside locally rather than face a grueling 80 km daily commute. Alongside these facility upgrades, 19 new water boreholes were commissioned to resolve longstanding water scarcity, which is essential for maintaining hygiene and sanitation standards in local clinics and surrounding communities. In the Western Region, the newly commissioned Damang water supply system represents a model for sustainable community development. Funded by the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation and implemented by World Vision Ghana, the project features a sophisticated network of drilled boreholes, a central reservoir, and a solar-powered pumping mechanism. This system ensures that households, schools, and healthcare centers in Damang have a reliable, clean water source. By fostering local ownership and management, the initiative seeks to improve long-term health outcomes and provide a blueprint for public-private collaboration in rural infrastructure development. While some districts celebrate new infrastructure, others are calling for urgent support to address legacy deficits. The Ewim Polyclinic in Cape Coast, a facility with a 50-year history, has issued an appeal for the construction of a surgical theatre. Currently, patients requiring surgical procedures must be referred to other hospitals due to a lack of specialized space and equipment. Acting Medical Superintendent Dr. Amos Kofi Pepprah highlighted the clinic's ongoing struggles despite recent support from Oxfam, which donated medical supplies and has invested nearly GH¢1.5 million in reproductive health services through the "Power to Choose" project. These combined efforts underscore the vital role of decentralized governance and NGO partnerships in strengthening Ghana's primary healthcare system. While the provision of modern beds and water systems marks a turning point for maternal care in districts like DBI, community leaders emphasize that infrastructure alone is not enough. Challenges such as poor road conditions and the need for dedicated emergency vehicles remain significant hurdles to effective healthcare delivery. Addressing these systemic issues will be the next critical step in ensuring that the newly commissioned facilities can provide timely, life-saving care to all citizens.

Tamale Cardiology Centre 85% complete – Ghana Medical Trust Fund targets August handover
health|

Health Minister Announces Scale-Back of Agenda 111 Projects and Addresses Delays at Weija Children's Hospital

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced a significant shift in the government’s flagship healthcare infrastructure initiative, Agenda 111. In a move aimed at ensuring the prudent use of public resources, the Cabinet has decided to prioritize the completion of only 35 hospital projects out of the original scope. This phased approach follows a comprehensive review intended to avoid unproductive spending and ensure that state resources are directed toward financially viable projects within a realistic timeline. To support this streamlined strategy, the government plans to strengthen its collaboration with the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) to maintain and enhance healthcare access across the country. Simultaneously, the Minister addressed mounting public concern regarding the 120-bed Children’s Specialist Hospital at Weija, which remains unopened despite being fully staffed. Speaking to Parliament, Mr. Akandoh attributed the delay to the contractor’s failure to complete critical works and officially hand over the facility to the Ministry. While the hospital is largely ready, essential installations—including specialized medical equipment—are still outstanding. The project has also been hampered by procurement irregularities and misprocurement issues flagged by the World Bank, which required resolution before the facility could move toward operationalization. Despite these setbacks, the Ministry of Health maintains that it is prepared to begin operations at the Weija facility within 24 hours of a formal handover. A final meeting with the contractor was scheduled for July 10 to resolve the remaining bottlenecks. This development follows several demonstrations by local residents who have called for the immediate opening of the hospital to alleviate the pressure on existing pediatric services in the Greater Accra Region. The Minister emphasized that the government is committed to making the facility operational as soon as the contractor fulfills their obligations. In contrast to the delays in Weija, progress is reportedly on track at the Tamale Teaching Hospital’s Modern Cardiology Centre. Project engineers and officials from the Ghana Medical Trust Fund have confirmed that the facility is 85% complete and slated for an August handover. Once operational, the Centre will serve as a vital referral hub for advanced cardiovascular care in Northern Ghana. This facility is expected to significantly reduce travel times for heart patients in northern regions and decrease cardiovascular-related mortality by providing specialized medical services closer to home. These combined updates reflect a broader government strategy to balance ambitious infrastructure goals with fiscal reality while addressing immediate healthcare gaps. While the scaling back of Agenda 111 marks a more conservative approach to national health projects, the focus on completing critical specialized centers in Weija and Tamale highlights an ongoing effort to improve equitable access to medical services. The Ministry's upcoming interactions with contractors and health partners like CHAG will be pivotal in determining the timeline for these essential health delivery improvements.

1,300 applicants tested HIV positive in security agency recruitment – Minister
health|

Security Recruitment Screenings Reveal 1,300 Reactive HIV Results as Ghana AIDS Commission Warns Against Discrimination

Ghana’s security agency recruitment process has sparked a national conversation on public health and employment ethics after Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, revealed that approximately 1,300 applicants tested positive for HIV during mandatory medical screenings. Announced during a session with Parliament’s Government Assurance Committee on July 7, 2026, the Minister noted that the screenings also identified other health issues, including Hepatitis B and various mental health conditions. While the figure of 1,300 is significant, the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) clarified that it represents about 1.3 percent of the 100,000 total applicants, a percentage that is consistent with Ghana’s national HIV prevalence rate of 1.49 percent. The GAC has been quick to manage public perception, emphasizing that these 1,300 results are considered "reactive" and are not yet confirmed diagnoses. According to the Commission, a single reactive test is a preliminary finding that requires a thorough, multi-stage testing protocol to confirm an individual's status. To protect the privacy and dignity of the applicants, the Ministry of the Interior intentionally withheld individual medical results from public lists, instead providing contact information for voluntary follow-ups. This approach aligns with advice from Dominic Nitiwul, Chairperson of the Government Assurance Committee, who urged the Ministry to ensure all affected individuals receive proper counseling and are guided toward treatment to prevent further transmission. In tandem with these medical findings, the GAC has raised serious concerns regarding potential employment discrimination. John Eliasu Mahama, the GAC Director of Policy Planning, emphasized that disqualifying applicants solely based on their HIV status may violate the Ghana AIDS Commission Act, 2016 (Act 938). He argued that advancements in medical science should be reflected in modern recruitment policies, asserting that HIV status should not be a reason for disqualification except in specific health-related cases. The Commission is currently initiating internal processes to review compliance with the law, advocating for the protection of individuals' rights and privacy throughout the recruitment cycle. Despite these efforts to manage the situation, a logistical crisis looms over Ghana’s HIV response. Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, President of the Ghana HIV/AIDS Network (Ghanet), has warned that the country faces a critical shortage of HIV testing kits. He cautioned that if the government does not replenish dwindling stocks at the Central Medical Stores immediately, health facilities could run out of kits by the end of July 2026. This potential supply gap threatens the very diagnostic and counseling services that officials are now urging citizens to utilize, highlighting a need for urgent government intervention in the health supply chain.