Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Scales to 1,500 Cases as Healthcare Workers Strike Over Unpaid Wages
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DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Scales to 1,500 Cases as Healthcare Workers Strike Over Unpaid Wages

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently battling the most severe outbreak of the rare Bundibugyo species of Ebola on record, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning that the virus remains in an expansion phase. As of October 2023, the outbreak has resulted in 1,561 confirmed cases and 506 fatalities. WHO representative Anne Ancia noted that the spread is being exacerbated by high levels of population movement and a lack of capacity at existing treatment centers. The situation is further complicated because the Bundibugyo strain historically lacks a proven cure, making the current surge particularly dangerous for the region. Adding to the health crisis, frontline healthcare workers in the hardest-hit province of Ituri have launched strikes in protest of months of delayed payments. Many of these professionals report they have not received wages or bonuses since the outbreak was officially declared on May 15. This labor dispute has severely jeopardized containment efforts, as responders face critical shortages of personal protective equipment and a rising number of infections within their own ranks. The WHO has highlighted that some infected health workers are not seeking local treatment, inadvertently spreading the virus to new regions as they travel to seek care elsewhere. In response to the clinical challenges of the Bundibugyo strain, the PARTNERS trial has commenced in the DRC to evaluate potential treatments. This collaborative research effort involves the Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, the Institute of Tropical Medicine, and Oxford’s Pandemic Sciences Institute, with support from the WHO. The trial is testing the effectiveness of the antiviral remdesivir and the monoclonal antibody MBP134, both alone and in combination. Researchers emphasize that the success of these trials depends heavily on community engagement and building trust, which are essential for ensuring patient participation and acceptance of new medical interventions. As the outbreak continues to expand, health authorities are working to establish more checkpoints to monitor population movement and mitigate further transmission. However, the success of these measures depends on resolving the grievances of the medical workforce and ensuring that treatment facilities are properly equipped and staffed. The dual challenge of managing a labor strike while conducting urgent clinical research underscores the precarious nature of the current response. International health officials remain focused on balancing the immediate humanitarian need for containment with the long-term goal of identifying effective therapies to prevent future fatalities from this rare Ebola species.

Nungua: FDA shuts three facilities over illicit products
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FDA Shuts Down Three Nungua Facilities Over Sale of Nitrous Oxide and Illicit Regulated Products

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has intensified its enforcement actions against the illegal sale of regulated substances, leading to the closure of three facilities in Nungua, Accra. In a joint operation conducted with the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the authority clamped down on establishments found to be distributing harmful and unregistered products. The items seized during the raid included nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas), codeine-mixed Benylin cough syrup, and various brands of unregistered shisha. This decisive action follows months of rigorous undercover investigations and intelligence gathering aimed at identifying hotspots for the distribution of illicit drugs. The FDA noted that the sale of these products in unauthorized retail spaces poses a grave risk to public health, particularly among the youth who are increasingly targeted for the recreational use of nitrous oxide and prescription-only medications. By collaborating with the CID, the authority ensured that the swoop was executed effectively, marking a significant blow to the local trade of unregulated pharmaceutical and tobacco products. The closure of these facilities underscores the FDA's broader commitment to upholding the Public Health Act and ensuring that all regulated products on the Ghanaian market meet strict safety and quality standards. The authority has expressed concern over the rising trend of mixing traditional medications with controlled substances like codeine, which can lead to severe addiction and other long-term health complications. This operation serves as a stern warning to vendors and facility owners that the FDA will not tolerate the sale of prohibited or unregistered items that compromise the well-being of citizens. Looking ahead, the FDA has pledged to maintain its surveillance and enforcement activities across the country to root out similar illegal operations. The authority is also calling on the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or the sale of prohibited substances to the relevant officials. Investigations into the owners of the shut-down facilities are currently ongoing, with the possibility of prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others who might attempt to bypass regulatory protocols for financial gain.

Prof. Emmanuel Kwasi Abu, Director of STEM Studies, College of Distance Education, UCC, and Professor of Optometry, delivering scientific presentation, at the 2nd White Coat Ceremony and Refractive Error Day Symposium at UCC
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UCC School of Optometry Warns of Rising Myopia Among Children, Advocates for Early Vision Screening

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) School of Optometry and Vision Science has issued a stark warning regarding the rapid increase of refractive errors, specifically myopia, among schoolchildren in Ghana. During a recent symposium, experts cautioned that the country is at risk of facing a vision crisis similar to the myopia epidemic observed in highly urbanized regions of East Asia. This trend, if left unaddressed, could lead to significant long-term visual impairments for the younger generation, necessitating immediate intervention from both parents and healthcare authorities to protect the nation's eye health. Prof. Emmanuel Kwasi Abu, representing the School, highlighted that environmental shifts are primarily driving this surge. The modern lifestyle, characterized by prolonged periods of screen time on digital devices and a significant reduction in outdoor recreational activities, has been identified as a critical factor in the development of short-sightedness. Prof. Abu emphasized that the visual demands placed on children today are vastly different from previous generations, creating a physiological strain that manifests as myopia at increasingly younger ages, which requires a shift in how childhood vision is managed. To combat this growing health challenge, the UCC Optometry School is advocating for a multi-pronged approach centered on prevention and early detection. Key recommendations include the implementation of mandatory outdoor activities within the school curriculum, as exposure to natural light is proven to help regulate eye growth and prevent the onset of refractive errors. Furthermore, the experts called for a national education campaign to sensitize the public on eye health and the institutionalization of regular, comprehensive eye screenings for all students to ensure that conditions are caught before they become debilitating. The symposium also served as a professional milestone, marking the induction of a new cohort of optometry students into their clinical training. These future practitioners will enter a field that is increasingly focused on community-level intervention and public health advocacy. By strengthening the pipeline of eye care professionals and integrating vision health into the broader national health agenda, Ghana aims to mitigate the impact of this emerging epidemic and ensure that the eyesight of its youth is preserved for the future.

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
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Ghana and South Sudan Face Critical Health Challenges as NGOs and Governments Address Malnutrition and Conflict-Related Emergencies

Sub-Saharan Africa is currently grappling with a dual burden of health crises, ranging from chronic malnutrition in West Africa to acute, conflict-driven medical emergencies in the East. In Ghana, the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are intensifying efforts to combat a malnutrition crisis that has left 10% of children severely stunted and nearly 10% suffering from wasting. Simultaneously, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has reported a staggering 50% increase in medical evacuations in South Sudan during the first half of 2026, as escalating violence pushes the nation’s fragile healthcare system to its breaking point. In Ghana, a high-level collaboration involving the Eleanor Crook Foundation, the WOMEC network, and Ghanaian parliamentarians aims to prioritize nutrition as a pillar of national development. Dr. Sebastian N. Sandaare has emphasized that malnutrition is not merely a health issue but a significant barrier to education and economic growth. William Moore of the Eleanor Crook Foundation further highlighted that malnutrition remains a leading cause of child mortality, advocating for the wider use of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF). This coalition is working to strengthen policy frameworks and funding to ensure that women and children receive the essential nutrients required for healthy development. The situation in South Sudan presents a different but equally dire set of health challenges. According to the ICRC, the surge in violence since late 2025 has led to 266 wounded individuals being evacuated to Juba Military Hospital, where surgical procedures have increased by nearly 30%. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the closure of several foreign-aided hospitals following targeted attacks, leaving a massive gap in service delivery. The United Nations peacekeeping mission has also noted a significant rise in civilian casualties, underscoring the lethal intersection of conflict and limited medical access. These contrasting health emergencies highlight the urgent need for sustained international support and robust domestic health policies across the continent. While Ghana seeks to prevent long-term developmental damage through nutritional interventions, South Sudan is struggling to provide basic life-saving surgeries amidst ongoing instability. Both scenarios underscore a common theme: the necessity of resilient healthcare infrastructure and reliable funding to mitigate the devastating effects of malnutrition and violence on vulnerable populations.

Mohammed-Anwar Sadat Adam (4th from right), Country Director of Oxfam Ghana, presenting medical equipment to Dr Amos Kofi Pepprah (5th from right), the acting Medical Superintendent of Ewim Polyclinic. With them are some health workers of the polyclinic
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Maternal Health in Focus: Ghana Records IVF Milestone Amidst Calls for Improved Infrastructure and Policy Support

Ghana's healthcare landscape is currently navigating a period of both significant technological advancement and urgent calls for structural reform, particularly within the sector of maternal and reproductive health. A major milestone was recently recorded at Mary Lucy Hospital, where a 61-year-old woman successfully gave birth to a healthy baby girl through an innovative Stem Cell-Enhanced In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedure. The delivery, performed via Caesarean section by a medical team led by Dr. Davies and Dr. Asamoah, represents a breakthrough in assisted reproductive technologies in the country. While the hospital management celebrated this success, they also cautioned that such advanced treatments require rigorous patient evaluation and that outcomes can vary significantly across individual cases. While high-end medical technology progresses, grassroots healthcare facilities continue to grapple with essential infrastructure deficits. In Cape Coast, the Ewim Polyclinic is making an urgent appeal for the establishment of a surgical theatre to meet rising local demands. Despite its 50-year history, the facility currently lacks the necessary equipment to perform operations, forcing staff to refer critical cases elsewhere. To mitigate some of these challenges, Oxfam, through the Power to Choose Project funded by Global Affairs Canada, has donated medical supplies worth nearly GH¢1.5 million. These resources are aimed at enhancing maternal and reproductive health services and training healthcare workers in inclusive emergency care, yet the fundamental need for a functional theatre remains unaddressed. On the policy level, the Ministry of Health is intensifying its efforts to reduce preventable deaths through the Maternal Mortality Action and Response Programme (MMARP). Deputy Minister for Health, Prof Grace Ayensu-Danquah, recently engaged with health directors in the Northern Region to develop region-specific strategies. The discussions in Tamale focused on strengthening referral systems, improving emergency obstetric care, and ensuring greater accountability among health managers. These administrative efforts are designed to create a more resilient healthcare network that can support mothers across all regions of Ghana, particularly in areas with high mortality rates. Beyond clinical settings, the conversation around maternal health extends to the professional rights and inclusivity of mothers. The recent case of a business leader being barred from an Amazon professional course because she was breastfeeding her infant highlights the social barriers that still exist. Amazon cited health and safety policies for the exclusion, but the incident has sparked wider debate about the need for professional environments to be more accommodating of nursing mothers. As Ghana continues to advance its medical capabilities and refine its health policies, stakeholders emphasize that a holistic approach—combining technological innovation, robust infrastructure, and inclusive social policies—is vital for the future of maternal wellbeing.

Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Responds to Musician Mzbel's Allegations Over Sister's 'No-Bed' Death
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Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Responds to Musician Mzbel's Allegations Over Sister's 'No-Bed' Death

The management of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) has officially responded to viral allegations made by popular Ghanaian musician Mzbel, who claimed that a chronic shortage of hospital beds led to the untimely death of her sister, Leila. In an emotional video shared on July 5, 2026, the artist detailed a harrowing experience where her sister was allegedly denied admission despite being in critical condition. The incident has reignited a heated national debate regarding the "no-bed syndrome" that has plagued Ghana’s public healthcare system for years, drawing widespread sympathy and calls for systemic reform from the public. According to Mzbel’s account, the family was informed upon arrival at the facility that there were no available beds to accommodate her sister. This lack of immediate medical intervention, she argues, directly contributed to her sister's demise. In her video statement, the musician did not hold back in her criticism of successive governments, accusing political leadership of failing to address fundamental infrastructure deficits in the health sector. Her testimony highlights a recurring frustration among citizens who feel that the nation's premier teaching hospital remains overwhelmed and under-equipped to handle emergencies. In a swift rebuttal and clarification issued on July 7, the management of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital expressed their deepest condolences to the bereaved family while stating they have initiated efforts to contact Mzbel for further details. The hospital emphasized that it takes such allegations with the utmost seriousness and is keen to investigate the specific circumstances of the case. KBTH management reassured the public that, under existing national healthcare policies, emergency cases are not to be refused. They further noted that the hospital has recently undergone facility improvements aimed specifically at mitigating bed shortages and enhancing patient flow. The hospital's statement also reminded the public of established channels for lodging formal complaints, urging patients and their families to use these mechanisms to ensure grievances are addressed through the proper administrative procedures. While KBTH maintains that its emergency protocols are designed to prevent such tragedies, the outcry following Mzbel’s video underscores a deep-seated lack of public confidence in the reliability of emergency care. As the hospital awaits further clarification from the musician, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for transparent communication and continued investment in Ghana’s medical infrastructure.

National Ambulance Service CEO Calls for Advanced Emergency Equipment Amid Distribution of Critical Supplies in Accra
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National Ambulance Service CEO Calls for Advanced Emergency Equipment Amid Distribution of Critical Supplies in Accra

Dr. George Kojo Owusu, CEO of the National Ambulance Service (NAS), has intensified calls for increased investment in pre-hospital emergency care, urging the government to equip ambulances with advanced life-saving tools. This appeal comes as the Service actively distributes critical medical supplies to stations across the Greater Accra Region to bolster frontline response capabilities. The NAS aims to transform the public perception and functionality of ambulances from mere transport vehicles into mobile clinical environments where life-saving decisions and procedures occur before a patient even reaches the hospital. By prioritizing technology and training, the Service seeks to significantly improve patient survival rates across the country. The recent distribution of equipment follows the challenges posed by the June 29 floods, which underscored the vital role of emergency services during natural disasters. To enhance readiness, the NAS has provided various stations with essential items including trolleys, gloves, and glucometers. During an emergency preparedness meeting, Dr. Owusu emphasized that these supplies are crucial for improving the quality of pre-hospital care, especially in areas frequently affected by drainage issues and flash flooding. This initiative serves as a direct response to the immediate needs of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who are often the first point of contact for trauma and medical emergencies in the capital. Beyond basic supplies, Dr. Owusu is advocating for a paradigm shift toward advanced life support. Speaking at a Performance Review in Accra, he highlighted that effective emergency care begins the moment a citizen dials the 112 emergency number. He explained that the process includes call-takers providing CPR instructions and EMTs making critical clinical decisions on-site. To achieve higher survival rates, the CEO stressed that ambulances must be equipped "beyond stretchers and sirens," requiring significant investment in technology, specialized training for personnel, and expedited patient transfer protocols. He urged both the government and private partners to view emergency medicine as a critical pillar of the national health infrastructure. As the NAS continues to push for modernization, the Service is also calling on the public to support these efforts by facilitating the movement of ambulances on the road and utilizing the emergency contact system responsibly. The ultimate goal is to transition from basic first aid to a comprehensive system of advanced medical intervention. By strengthening the partnership between the government, healthcare partners, and the community, the NAS hopes to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to high-quality emergency medical services that can mean the difference between life and death during critical incidents.

University of Ghana Professor Warns of 'Groundwater Galamsey' Crisis Threatening National Water Security
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University of Ghana Professor Warns of 'Groundwater Galamsey' Crisis Threatening National Water Security

Prof. Yvonne Sena Akosua Loh of the Department of Earth Science at the University of Ghana has raised an urgent alarm over a burgeoning environmental crisis she terms 'Groundwater Galamsey.' This phenomenon refers to the widespread, unregulated drilling of boreholes across the country without adequate scientific oversight or adherence to hydrogeological standards. As many Ghanaians turn to private boreholes to compensate for unreliable public water supplies, the proliferation of poorly constructed wells is creating a hidden threat to the nation’s long-term water security and public health. Unlike traditional illegal mining, which leaves visible scars on the landscape and causes immediate turbidity in river bodies, groundwater galamsey is a silent crisis occurring beneath the surface. Prof. Loh highlights that because the damage is not immediately visible to the naked eye, it often goes unnoticed by both the public and regulators. However, the consequences are severe; improper drilling can lead to the cross-contamination of aquifers, the introduction of pathogens into drinking water systems, and the rapid depletion of underground reserves. Without professional hydrogeological assessments to determine safe yields and site suitability, these boreholes risk becoming permanent conduits for pollution. The professor emphasizes that a science-based approach to groundwater management is no longer optional but a necessity. She advocates for responsible drilling practices that include proper documentation, construction standards, and the involvement of certified hydrogeologists. Currently, a significant portion of borehole projects bypass regulatory requirements, creating a scenario where short-term water access is prioritized over the long-term sustainability of the resource. This lack of accountability endangers the current population and potentially compromises the water needs of future generations. To mitigate this threat, Prof. Loh calls for a multi-pronged approach involving stricter government enforcement of water regulations and a massive public awareness campaign. There is an urgent need for a shift in behavior toward professionalized drilling services and the mandatory implementation of hydrogeological surveys for all new projects. By addressing the groundwater galamsey phenomenon today, Ghana can protect its vital underground resources and ensure that the pursuit of water independence does not result in a self-inflicted environmental catastrophe.

Is he the bad boy, the Business man or others? Check out the kind of partner your man is
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International Maritime Hospital Doctors Warn Men Against Using Alcohol and Drugs for Stress Management

Health professionals at the International Maritime Hospital (IMaH), in collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), have issued a stern warning to men against the use of alcohol and drugs as a means of managing stress. During a recent media forum focused on men’s mental health, medical experts emphasized that while these substances may provide a fleeting sense of relief, they ultimately fail to address the root causes of stress and can significantly worsen underlying health conditions. Dr. Edward Amoah Boateng, a Consultant Surgeon at IMaH, highlighted that the reliance on chemical substances often escalates the very problems individuals are trying to escape, creating a dangerous cycle of dependency. To combat the pressures of modern life, particularly in high-stress work environments like the port community, Dr. Boateng advocated for more sustainable and healthier coping strategies. He specifically recommended regular physical activity, noting that exercise triggers the release of endorphins—the body’s natural mood elevators—which are highly effective in managing stress levels. Additionally, he urged men to break the silence surrounding their struggles by confiding in trusted individuals, including family members, friends, religious leaders, or professional mental health counselors. This shift toward emotional transparency is seen as a vital step in maintaining long-term mental well-being. The conversation also touched upon the broader social and behavioral implications of unmanaged stress. Beyond the physical health risks, health officials and social analysts observe that men who do not manage their emotional health effectively may inadvertently adopt roles that sabotage their personal relationships. These behaviors can manifest as emotional dishonesty, transactional attitudes toward partners, or a lack of maturity. Mr. Adams Umar Mengo of IMaH further stressed that families play a crucial role in early intervention by remaining observant of subtle changes in behavior that may signal substance abuse or mounting mental health challenges. Ultimately, the forum underscored the urgent need for increased awareness and more accessible mental health support services across Ghana. For workers in high-pressure industries, early intervention is critical to preventing the escalation of stress into more severe clinical conditions. By fostering an environment where men feel comfortable seeking help and adopting positive lifestyle changes, the community can better address the growing challenges of mental health. Health professionals continue to maintain that seeking professional support is not a sign of weakness, but a necessary step toward holistic health and stable relationships.

Mamprobi Hospital Bolsters Patient and Staff Safety with Expanded CCTV Surveillance from Virtual Security Africa
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Mamprobi Hospital Bolsters Patient and Staff Safety with Expanded CCTV Surveillance from Virtual Security Africa

Mamprobi Hospital has significantly enhanced its security infrastructure through a comprehensive expansion of its Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system. Implemented by Virtual Security Africa (VSA), the project aims to create a safer environment for patients, medical staff, and visitors alike. This upgrade comes as part of a broader effort to leverage technology in improving hospital management and safety standards within the Greater Accra Region, ensuring that the facility remains a secure space for healthcare delivery. The new installation features nearly 40 high-quality cameras strategically distributed across the hospital's premises. According to Medical Superintendent Dr. Henrietta Fiscian Barnor, this project represents a substantial upgrade over the facility's previous surveillance capabilities. The strategic placement of these cameras ensures wider coverage and better visibility in key areas, which is expected to drastically improve monitoring and security coordination throughout the facility, allowing for real-time response to any incidents. Dr. Robert Amesiya, the Greater Accra Regional Health Director, lauded the initiative and praised Virtual Security Africa for its reliability in delivering the system. He highlighted the importance of such technological interventions in the health sector, noting that robust security systems are essential for the smooth operation of medical facilities. Dr. Amesiya further encouraged other health institutions to consider similar security solutions, pointing out that widespread adoption across the region could create economies of scale, ultimately making high-tech security more affordable for the entire healthcare sector. Beyond the immediate benefit of theft prevention and monitoring, the enhanced CCTV system is expected to foster a general sense of safety and professional accountability at Mamprobi Hospital. By integrating modern surveillance technology into daily operations, the hospital is setting a benchmark for community-based healthcare facilities in Ghana. The successful rollout of this project underscores the growing partnership between private security firms and public health institutions in addressing safety challenges in the country's healthcare landscape.

Tamale Cardiology Centre 85% complete – Ghana Medical Trust Fund targets August handover
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Tamale Teaching Hospital’s Cardiology Centre Set for August Completion to Transform Heart Care in Northern Ghana

The Cardiology Centre at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) is officially on track for completion by the end of August, marking a significant milestone for healthcare delivery in the northern sector of the country. This confirmation follows a high-level joint inspection conducted by the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and the management of TTH. The project, which has seen rapid progress in recent months, is designed to address the critical gap in specialized cardiovascular services for residents across multiple northern regions. During the site visit, project engineers and contractors reassured officials of their commitment to the deadline, noting that crews have been working extended hours, including night shifts, to finalize the structure. Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, praised the pace of construction and the quality of work observed. She emphasized that the facility is a strategic investment aimed at ensuring equitable access to medical services, fulfilling the Trust Fund’s mandate to bring advanced healthcare closer to the people. Once operational, the Centre will serve as a premier referral hub for advanced cardiac care, significantly reducing the burden on patients who currently must travel long distances to Accra or Kumasi for heart-related treatments. By providing comprehensive cardiovascular services locally, the facility is expected to improve patient outcomes, reduce the financial strain on families, and lower the rate of cardiovascular-related deaths in the region. The proximity of such specialized care is considered a life-saving intervention for emergency cases that cannot survive the long transit to southern hospitals. The completion of this modern facility is expected to position the Tamale Teaching Hospital as a leading center for heart care in Ghana and the broader West African sub-region. Beyond infrastructure, the project represents a transformative step in decentralizing specialist healthcare. As the August handover date approaches, the focus is expected to shift toward the installation of medical equipment and the deployment of specialized personnel to ensure the Centre begins its mission of saving lives immediately upon its opening.

Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak Proposes Mandatory Drug Tests for Public Sector Job Applicants
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Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak Proposes Mandatory Drug Tests for Public Sector Job Applicants

Ghana's Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has submitted a proposal to Cabinet seeking the introduction of mandatory drug and mental health screenings for all individuals applying for public sector positions. This initiative aims to establish a high standard of mental health and drug-free backgrounds within the government workforce while serving as a powerful deterrent against substance abuse among the nation's youth. The proposal emphasizes that by making drug-free status a prerequisite for stable employment, young people—particularly students—will be more likely to avoid narcotics to safeguard their future career prospects. The urgency for such measures is underscored by the results of a recent pilot screening program, which revealed a concerning prevalence of substance issues among potential recruits. According to the Minister, over 6,000 applicants were disqualified during the trial phase after failing drug or mental health assessments. These figures have fueled the government's push for stricter recruitment protocols, highlighting a critical gap in current hiring processes and the need to protect the integrity of public institutions. The Minister noted that awareness of potential job loss or disqualification acts as a significant psychological barrier to drug use for young individuals entering the labor market. Beyond recruitment, the proposal is part of a comprehensive national strategy designed to tackle drug abuse through a multifaceted approach involving education, enforcement, and rehabilitation. Plans are currently underway for the establishment of a state-owned rehabilitation center to provide better access to treatment for those struggling with addiction. By integrating mandatory testing with improved healthcare infrastructure and public awareness campaigns, the government aims to support national development and protect the youth from the detrimental effects of substance abuse. The Minister stressed that these ongoing efforts are vital for ensuring a healthy, productive workforce capable of driving the country’s growth.