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.

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Nigeria’s HIV-Prevention Strategy Faces Supply Challenges as Lenacapavir Injectables Run Out Across Multiple States

A critical shortage of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking twice-yearly injectable drug for HIV prevention, has hit several Nigerian states shortly after the commencement of a federal pilot program. The stock-out has sparked a scramble among key populations, particularly sex workers and other high-risk individuals who rely on the medication to mitigate the risk of infection. This sudden depletion of supplies highlights the high demand for long-acting antiretroviral options in Nigeria's ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, signaling a shift in how vulnerable populations prefer to manage their health. The shortage has been reported most acutely in Benue, Kwara, Gombe, and Cross River states. These regions, which were part of the initial phase of the Federal Government's rollout, saw their inventories exhausted almost immediately after distribution began. Health workers and advocacy groups have noted that the convenience of a biannual injection, as opposed to the daily regimen required by traditional oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), has driven an unprecedented level of interest and uptake among eligible Nigerians. Lenacapavir’s introduction was seen as a major milestone in Nigeria’s public health policy, offering a more discreet and manageable alternative for those at high risk of exposure. However, the rapid exhaustion of stock suggests that initial procurement volumes may have underestimated the public’s readiness to adopt the new technology. For sex workers in particular, the injectable form provides a level of privacy and consistency that is often difficult to maintain with daily pills, making the current lack of availability a significant setback for localized prevention efforts during this pilot phase. As the Federal Government and health agencies assess the situation, the focus shifts to scaling up procurement and improving the supply chain to prevent future disruptions. Ensuring a steady supply of Lenacapavir is essential not only for the success of the pilot program but also for sustaining the gains made in reducing HIV transmission rates across the country. The current scramble serves as a clear indicator of the public's appetite for innovative health solutions, placing the onus on authorities to bridge the gap between demand and delivery to protect those most at risk.

Dr Abigail Kyei, health consultant, delivering her speech at the event
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Ghana Health Service Launches 2026 National Family Planning Week to Drive Domestic Investment and Reproductive Health Access

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially launched the 2026 National Family Planning Week, calling for a significant increase in domestic investment to address the country’s growing contraceptive needs. Under the theme “A Choice for All: Agency, Intention, Access,” the initiative is strategically aligned with World Contraception Day to highlight the critical role of family planning in national development. The GHS emphasizes that while progress has been made in reproductive health, substantial gaps remain, particularly regarding unmet needs among women and couples across the country. By focusing on these gaps, the service aims to ensure that reproductive rights are not just theoretical but practically accessible to all citizens regardless of their location. Central to this year’s campaign is the urgent call for national ownership and sustainable financing. Keynote speakers during the launch highlighted that relying on international support alone is insufficient for long-term health security. By prioritizing domestic funding, Ghana aims to stabilize the supply of reproductive health commodities and ensure that services are consistently available at the primary healthcare level. This shift toward self-reliance is seen as a necessary step to protect the gains achieved in maternal and child health over the past decade. It also reflects a broader governmental strategy to integrate family planning into the national health insurance framework more effectively. Innovation is also at the forefront of the GHS strategy, with the introduction and promotion of digital tools such as the My Family Planning app. This application is designed to revolutionize how information is delivered and how resources are distributed, making it easier for citizens to access accurate data and services from their mobile devices. Officials noted that leveraging technology will be particularly beneficial in reaching Ghana’s youth and tech-savvy populations, who often face barriers when seeking traditional reproductive health services. This digital approach complements physical service delivery, providing a discreet and efficient way for individuals to manage their reproductive health. The 2026 National Family Planning Week also places a heavy emphasis on equity, specifically targeting underserved communities and marginalized demographic groups. By focusing on areas where access to healthcare is historically limited, the GHS and its partners aim to bridge the gap in service delivery. The week-long celebration involves a diverse range of stakeholders, from community leaders to international health partners, all working toward a unified goal of ensuring that every Ghanaian has the agency and the means to make informed choices about their reproductive future. This collaborative effort is expected to foster a more resilient health system capable of meeting future demands.

Gov't committed to integrating traditional medicine into healthcare – Deputy Health Minister
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Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Affirms Government Commitment to Integrating Traditional Medicine into National Healthcare

The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has signaled the government's firm intention to merge scientifically validated traditional medicine with Ghana’s formal healthcare system. Speaking during a high-profile visit to the Center of Awareness (COA) Research and Manufacturing Company, the Deputy Minister highlighted the sector’s untapped potential in strengthening the nation's healthcare delivery. This move aligns with President John Mahama’s administration’s broader strategy to expand access to medical services through the Free Primary Healthcare programme, ensuring that local health solutions are part of the national development agenda. The integration efforts are specifically targeted at addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across the country. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah pointed to international success stories, citing China as a primary example of how traditional medicine can be effectively institutionalized alongside Western medical practices. By leveraging local botanical resources and indigenous knowledge that have undergone rigorous scientific scrutiny, the Ministry of Health aims to provide more comprehensive and culturally relevant treatment options for Ghanaians while reducing the strain on conventional resources. In response to the government's policy direction, Mr. Samuel Ato Duncan, CEO of the COA Manufacturing Company, expressed strong support for the initiative. He emphasized that for traditional medicine to truly align with national healthcare objectives, there must be a concerted effort toward standardization and deep-rooted research. Mr. Duncan noted that private-sector participation in research and development is crucial for ensuring that traditional products meet the highest safety and efficacy standards required for mainstream clinical use, suggesting that government backing is essential for the industry to reach its full potential. The government’s commitment marks a significant shift toward a more inclusive healthcare model that recognizes the historical and practical importance of herbal and traditional treatments. As the Ministry of Health moves forward with these integration plans, the focus will remain on ensuring that all traditional remedies introduced into the Free Primary Healthcare framework are backed by robust empirical data. This initiative is expected to not only improve health outcomes but also stimulate the local pharmaceutical and herbal research industry, potentially positioning Ghana as a regional leader in the scientific advancement of traditional medicine.

CMLAG and The Max Foundation officials, health professionals, patients and other participants after the World CML Day celebration at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
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CML Advocates Ghana Urge Government to Fast-Track Duty Waivers for Life-Saving Cancer Medicines

The Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Advocates Ghana (CMLAG) has issued an urgent appeal to the Ghanaian government to streamline the process for granting duty waivers on donated medications. The group warns that bureaucratic delays in clearing essential treatments from the nation's ports are putting the lives of cancer patients at significant risk. These medications, which are vital for managing Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML), are provided free of charge by international partners but often remain stuck in administrative cycles involving the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance. Dr. Amma Benneh-Akwasi Kuma, a specialist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, highlighted the severe consequences of these delays, noting that past administrative bottlenecks have forced patients to go without life-saving treatment for extended periods. The financial burden of CML is immense; a single month’s supply of the necessary medication is valued at approximately GH¢34,000, a cost that is prohibitive for the vast majority of Ghanaian families. Consequently, the donations provided by organizations like The Max Foundation serve as a critical lifeline for those battling the disease. While advocates acknowledge that a legal framework for duty exemptions already exists, they emphasize that the implementation of these waivers is hindered by sluggish bureaucratic procedures. CMLAG is calling for a more efficient, fast-tracked system that prioritizes the clearance of donated health supplies to ensure a continuous supply of medicine. Beyond the administrative challenges, the group also urged the general public to offer greater support for cancer patients and encouraged citizens to prioritize regular health check-ups to facilitate early detection and management of the condition.

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UHAS Research Reveals Alarming 70% Resistance to Common Antifungal Treatments in Ghana

Ghana is grappling with a significant public health challenge as common fungal infections show increasing resistance to standard treatments. Recent research conducted at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho reveals that approximately 70% of Candida albicans isolates are now resistant to fluconazole, one of the most frequently prescribed antifungal medications in the country. This alarming trend underscores a growing gap in Ghana's infectious disease management, where fungal pathogens are becoming increasingly difficult to treat with conventional pharmacy-level interventions. The study highlights a systemic neglect of fungal infections in favor of more high-profile bacterial resistance issues. While the global and national conversation often centers on antibiotic-resistant superbugs, medical researchers are pointing to a critical lack of awareness regarding medical mycology. This knowledge gap is exacerbated by limited access to specialized fungal diagnostics, making it difficult for healthcare providers to accurately identify resistant strains and tailor treatments accordingly. Without the capacity to perform routine antifungal susceptibility testing, clinicians are often forced to prescribe treatments without definitive data, a practice that can further drive the cycle of resistance. Addressing this emerging threat requires a multifaceted approach to strengthen Ghana's laboratory infrastructure. Experts are advocating for enhanced surveillance systems to track the spread of resistant Candida species and a significant expansion of laboratory capacity across the country's healthcare facilities. By incorporating routine susceptibility testing into standard clinical practice, the medical community can ensure that patients receive effective medications rather than contributing to the proliferation of resistant strains through ineffective, empirical prescribing. Ultimately, the rise of antifungal resistance represents a critical frontier for Ghana’s healthcare system that demands immediate attention. Beyond clinical upgrades, there is a pressing need for increased education and specialized training for medical professionals in the field of mycology. As Candida infections continue to pose a threat to vulnerable populations, particularly those with compromised immune systems, the integration of fungal health into national public health strategies will be essential for safeguarding patient outcomes and maintaining the efficacy of the nation's remaining pharmaceutical arsenal.

Dr David Wilfred Ochan (seated middle), the United Nations Population Fund Country Representative in Ghana, with Prof. Yaw Asante Awuku (3rd from right), Founding Head of Physician Assistant Studies, School of Allied Health Sciences in the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Patience Afulani (2nd from right), University of California, San Francisco, and other officials after the event. Picture: CALEB VANDERPUYE
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UNFPA Calls for Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan to Bolster Ghana's Healthcare Resilience

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

A young man with an emotional expression sits on a green mat in a wooded outdoor area, likely a prayer camp. In the background, other individuals are seen resting on the ground among trees and various personal items like plastic basins and cloths.
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Hafiz Abdallah's Eight-Year Ordeal Highlights Ghana's Urgent Need for Mental Health Reform in Prayer Camps

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

The official logo of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is shown as a circular seal. The emblem features a central crest with a palm tree, cocoa pods, and the Ga motto, all enclosed within a green border stating the assembly's name and founding date.
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Accra Metropolitan Assembly Advocates for Science-Led Policies to Combat Environmental Health Risks

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

Agnes Owusu-Afram (right), Divisional Head, Corporate Communication and Experience, GTBank Ghana, presenting the items to Dr Charlyne Kilba (4th from left), Head, Department of Child Health, Greater Accra Regional Hospital. With them are officials of the bank and the hospital
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GTBank Ghana Donates Essential Paediatric Oncology Equipment to Greater Accra Regional Hospital

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

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

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

Dr Abigail Kyei, health consultant, delivering her speech at the event
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Ghana Health Service Advocates for Enhanced Domestic Funding at 2026 National Family Planning Week Launch

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

Gov't committed to integrating traditional medicine into healthcare – Deputy Health Minister
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Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Reaffirms Government Commitment to Integrate Traditional Medicine into Ghana’s Healthcare System

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