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.

Health Minister Akandoh Boosts Weija Children’s Hospital Staffing Amid Progress in NHIS Claims Payments and UHC Goals
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Health Minister Akandoh Boosts Weija Children’s Hospital Staffing Amid Progress in NHIS Claims Payments and UHC Goals

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced a significant workforce expansion at the Weija Children’s Specialist Hospital, marking a pivotal step in the government's efforts to strengthen specialized pediatric care. This development comes as private healthcare providers commend the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for clearing substantial arrears, and experts at the 6th Biennial Scientific Conference urge deeper cross-sector collaboration to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Together, these milestones reflect a multifaceted approach by the Mahama administration to improve healthcare delivery and financial sustainability within Ghana's medical landscape. During a recent inspection of the 120-bed Weija facility, Minister Akandoh confirmed the deployment of 40 additional health professionals, including 10 doctors and 30 nurses and midwives. The hospital, which currently operates as a referral center providing outpatient and emergency services, is in the final stages of upgrading its capacity to offer full inpatient care. Akandoh expressed satisfaction with the installation of essential medical equipment and assured that outstanding administrative issues between the government and contractors are being resolved to ensure the facility reaches its full operational potential for the benefit of Ghanaian families. Parallel to infrastructure improvements, the Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana (PHFAoG) has lauded the NHIA and the Ministry of Finance for marked improvements in the reimbursement of insurance claims. Under the leadership of NHIA CEO Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe and Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the authority has distributed GH¢1.64 billion in claims payments throughout 2026. While the PHFAoG acknowledged that these payments have significantly eased the financial strain on private providers, they continue to advocate for more predictable funding cycles and the establishment of a formal claims adjudication committee to resolve disputes efficiently. The broader vision for the sector was further articulated at the 6th Biennial Scientific Conference in Accra, where stakeholders emphasized that UHC cannot be achieved by the government alone. Dr. Koku Awoonor-Williams and other keynote speakers called for a "collective action" model involving universities, health institutions, and the private sector. Discussions centered on the need for sustainable funding, primary healthcare innovation, and social policies that protect underserved communities. Illustrating the role of corporate partnership, Samir Sadaoui of Promasidor Ghana shared details of initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable patients requiring specialized heart surgeries. These concurrent developments—ranging from frontline staffing at specialized hospitals to systemic improvements in health financing—underscore the complex requirements of a robust national health system. As the government continues to address the dual challenges of infrastructure maintenance and financial liquidity, the call for integrated research and public-private partnerships remains central. The focus now shifts toward ensuring that these financial and personnel investments translate into tangible health outcomes and equitable access for all citizens across the country.

DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Surpasses 4,000 Deaths Amidst Ongoing Conflict and Resource Shortages
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DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Surpasses 4,000 Deaths Amidst Ongoing Conflict and Resource Shortages

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently grappling with the most severe Ebola outbreak in its history, as official figures confirm that the death toll has surpassed 4,000. Since the virus was first detected in mid-May, the epidemic has rapidly spread across seven provinces, including the initial epicenter in Ituri. With 8,300 confirmed cases and a fatality rate currently standing at 48.4%, the central African nation is facing a public health crisis of unprecedented proportions that has overwhelmed local containment efforts. The response to the outbreak has been severely hampered by a complex combination of armed conflict and deep-seated local mistrust of health interventions. In many unstable regions, healthcare workers struggle to reach affected communities due to ongoing violence, while resource shortages have made it difficult to provide adequate care to the thousands infected. These challenges have created a perfect storm for the virus to persist, as the government continues its difficult struggle to suppress transmission in areas where state authority is frequently contested. Despite these hurdles, international support and medical interventions are being scaled up to mitigate the impact of the virus. The United States has committed an additional $267 million to the response efforts, while French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot is scheduled for a support visit to the region. On the medical front, there is a glimmer of hope as over 2,162 individuals have successfully recovered from the disease. Health authorities are currently trialing the Ervebo vaccine on frontline workers, alongside several other vaccine candidates that are under study to find more effective ways to protect the population. As the DRC government fights to gain control over the epidemic, the situation remains precarious. The success of the containment strategy will depend not only on the availability of vaccines and financial aid but also on the ability of officials to build trust within local communities and ensure the safety of medical teams in conflict-prone areas. Without a more stable environment and sustained international cooperation, the historic death toll serves as a sobering reminder of the long road ahead in eradicating the virus from the region.

A group photograph of professionals attending a technical working group meeting in a conference room. Participants are arranged behind U-shaped tables covered with blue cloths, featuring Verna water bottles and laptops, with INSLA organizational banners visible in the background.
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Ghana Stakeholders Push for National Ban on Partially Hydrogenated Oils to Curb Cardiovascular Disease

Stakeholders in Ghana’s health sector have formally called for the implementation of a ban on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) to safeguard the nation’s cardiovascular health. At a high-level forum held in Accra, the National TFA Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group was tasked with drafting the necessary concept notes and legal documents to enforce this ban. This initiative is a critical component of the National Trans Fat Elimination Strategy (2025–2030), which aims to remove industrially produced trans fatty acids (TFAs) from the Ghanaian food supply, aligning with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) REPLACE Action Framework. The forum, themed "From Strategy to Action: Accelerate the Implementation of Ghana’s National TFA Strategy to Protect Heart Health," was organized by the Institute of Leadership and Development (INSLA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. Participants emphasized that eliminating PHOs—the primary source of artificial trans fats—requires immediate and coordinated action across multiple sectors. Central to this effort is a partnership with the Ghana Standards Authority to establish and enforce strict food standards that limit the presence of these harmful fats in commercially produced foods. Dr. Hafez Adam Taher of the Ministry of Health underscored the urgency of the situation, noting that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for approximately 43% of all deaths in Ghana, according to WHO data. He called for a broad consensus among stakeholders to ensure the 2025–2030 strategy is effectively integrated into the national health agenda. Mr. Benjamin Anabila, Executive Director of INSLA, further highlighted the strategy’s importance in mitigating the rise of NCDs linked to unhealthy dietary practices, stressing that the transition from policy to tangible action is vital for public safety. Beyond legislative bans, the stakeholders recommended a comprehensive approach that includes building laboratory capacity to accurately test and monitor TFA levels in food products. There is also a significant focus on public education and awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the health hazards associated with PHO consumption. To ensure a smooth transition, the working group plans to engage directly with food industry players to reformulate products, ensuring that healthier alternatives replace industrially produced trans fats without compromising food quality or availability.

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Ghana Health Service Urges Media to Utilize Community Scorecard for Enhanced Healthcare Accountability

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a call to journalists across the country to actively utilize the Community Scorecard (CSC) as a tool for driving accountability and improving the quality of healthcare delivery. Speaking during a virtual engagement session, Dr. Samuel K. Boakye-Boateng, a representative of the GHS, emphasized that the media plays a pivotal role in bridging the communication gap between local communities and health authorities. By amplifying the voices of those receiving care, journalists can help ensure that healthcare providers and policymakers remain responsive to the needs of the public. The Community Scorecard, which was first introduced in 2018, is a structured platform designed to allow communities to evaluate the healthcare services they receive based on their personal experiences. Unlike traditional health data that focuses primarily on clinical outcomes, the CSC captures qualitative indicators such as the level of respect shown by health staff and the overall availability of essential services. Dr. Boakye-Boateng highlighted that the true value of this tool lies not just in the collection of data, but in the subsequent action plans developed to address identified gaps and enhance service delivery at the local level. Journalists are being encouraged to delve deeper than surface-level health indicators by investigating the underlying stories behind the scorecard results. The GHS urged media professionals to follow up on the actions taken by health facilities in response to community feedback, thereby promoting a culture of transparency and continuous improvement. Dr. Charity Binka from the African Media and Malaria Research Network underscored these efforts, noting that increasing community involvement in the scorecard project remains a priority for ensuring that diverse community experiences are reflected in health policy decisions. Looking ahead, the GHS intends to further integrate community feedback into its routine healthcare management systems. By maintaining open lines of communication with the media and fostering collaborative partnerships, the service aims to create a more inclusive healthcare environment. This initiative underscores a strategic shift toward person-centered care in Ghana, where the experiences of the patient are considered as vital as the medical treatment itself in measuring the success and effectiveness of the national health system.

Ghana’s Reproductive Health Sustainability at Risk Amid 90% Reliance on Donor Funding
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Ghana’s Reproductive Health Sustainability at Risk Amid 90% Reliance on Donor Funding

Ghana's reproductive health sector is currently facing a significant sustainability crisis, as over 90% of the nation's family planning expenditures in 2024 were financed by international development partners. According to data highlighted by advocacy groups like SEND Ghana, the government’s domestic contribution stood at only 9.48%, raising urgent questions about the future of these services should external funding wane. This dependency is increasingly viewed as an economic and national development risk rather than a purely clinical concern, as the ability of families to manage their resources effectively is directly tied to the availability of reproductive health services. Despite the fiscal challenges at the national level, localized initiatives are demonstrating a high demand for services, particularly among the youth. The Adolescent Girls’ Empowerment Programme (AGP), implemented in the Akatsi North District with support from the UNFPA and Global Affairs Canada, has successfully engaged out-of-school youth and apprentices. The program provides essential sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) education and free screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Organizers report that more than 120 young people participated in recent sensitization events, signaling a positive shift in health-seeking behavior and a growing desire for autonomy in health decisions. To address the funding gap, the government has made recent strides, including a commitment of $1.4 million for contraceptive supplies scheduled for May 2026. However, health advocates argue that more than just monetary announcements are required; there is a pressing need for a transparent and accountable budgeting system that integrates family planning into broader health and social welfare services. Dr. Emmily Naphambo of the UNFPA has emphasized that empowering young girls to take charge of their reproductive health is essential for the nation's future, urging stakeholders to resist social pressures that lead to early motherhood. Moving forward, the upcoming National Family Planning Week 2026 is expected to serve as a pivotal platform for advocating increased domestic investment. Ensuring that reproductive health is adequately funded within the national budget is no longer seen as optional but as a necessity for ensuring equitable access for all citizens. By fostering a collective responsibility among local leaders, educators, and parents, Ghana aims to transition from donor reliance to a sustainable, nationally-owned reproductive health framework that can reliably support the next generation.

GRNMA Demands Urgent Investment in Nursing to Sustain Ghana's Free Primary Healthcare Initiative
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GRNMA Demands Urgent Investment in Nursing to Sustain Ghana's Free Primary Healthcare Initiative

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has issued a strong call for increased recruitment and improved working conditions to ensure the success of the government's Free Primary Healthcare programme. Speaking at the launch of the association's week-long celebration in Ho, Volta Region, leaders and health experts warned that the current nursing workforce is at risk of being overwhelmed. Under the administration of President John Mahama, the proposed healthcare expansion is expected to significantly increase patient attendance, placing additional strain on a system already grappling with staffing shortages and inadequate resources. Dr. Oliver Commey, Director of Infectious Diseases at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, emphasized that the success of universal health coverage hinges on more than just policy; it requires a robust investment in the people delivering the care. Dr. Commey advocated for better staffing, modern equipment, and continuous professional development. He stressed that empowering nurses involves including them in health service decision-making processes and ensuring they have the institutional support necessary to maintain patient safety. He cautioned that treating the physical exhaustion of health workers as mere dedication is unsustainable and could hinder the efficacy of national health interventions. Adding to these concerns, Mr. Courage Kwame-Kumah and other regional GRNMA representatives highlighted a worrying trend of declining motivation among nursing staff. Poor remuneration and difficult working environments are reportedly driving an increase in the emigration of healthcare professionals. The association argued that without immediate government action to improve service conditions, the brain drain will accelerate, leaving the country ill-equipped to handle the influx of patients promised under the free primary care model. The GRNMA is urging for concrete measures to stabilize the workforce and recognize the pivotal role nurses play in Ghana's healthcare delivery. Amid these calls for systemic reform, the nursing profession continues to demonstrate high levels of excellence and academic rigor. Recently, two faculty members from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) School of Nursing and Midwifery, Dr. Abigail Kusi-Amponsah Diji and Dr. William Wilberforce Amoah, were honored at the 2026 Health Ministry Excellence Awards in Koforidua. Their recognition for contributions to nursing education and research underscores the vital role that university educators and professional mentors play in shaping the next generation of healthcare practitioners. These achievements serve as a reminder of the potential within the sector if properly supported by national policy and investment.

GMTF, HeFRA explore partnership to strengthen healthcare regulation
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Ghana Medical Trust Fund Marks First Anniversary with Lifesaving Equipment Donations to Nine Hospitals

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) has celebrated its first anniversary by significantly expanding its support to the nation’s healthcare sector through its "Day of Giving" initiative. As part of the milestone, the Fund delivered critical medical equipment to nine hospitals across the country, aimed at enhancing diagnostic capabilities and emergency response systems. Mrs. Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the Administrator of the GMTF, underscored that the initiative is part of a broader commitment to continuously engage with health facilities and address the most pressing needs of Ghana’s medical infrastructure to ensure improved patient care. The distribution targeted key facilities, including the Volta Regional Hospital, the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, and the Sefwi-Wiawso Government Hospital. The "Day of Giving" package included essential lifesaving tools such as ultrasound machines, oxygen concentrators, X-ray machines, and in some cases, oxygen plants. Hospital administrators and staff expressed significant gratitude for the donations, noting that the new equipment will alleviate the pressure on healthcare workers and provide much-needed relief to facilities struggling with resource constraints. By upgrading diagnostic and emergency tools, the GMTF aims to directly improve patient outcomes and the efficiency of medical service delivery. In a parallel effort to ensure the long-term sustainability of such investments, the GMTF has also entered into strategic discussions with the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA). This partnership aims to strengthen healthcare regulation, improve equipment management, and enhance the monitoring of health infrastructure across Ghana. Dr. Winfred Korletey Baah emphasized the transformative potential of the GMTF’s interventions, while Mrs. Darko-Opoku highlighted that collaborations between regulatory bodies and funding agencies are vital for the effective use of healthcare investments. These talks signal a shift toward a more integrated approach to healthcare development, combining funding with strict regulatory oversight. Looking ahead, the GMTF plans to maintain its momentum by conducting regular assessments of health facilities to guide future interventions. By focusing on both the immediate provision of equipment and the development of robust regulatory frameworks, the Fund seeks to create a more resilient healthcare system. As both the GMTF and HeFRA reflect on their first year of operation, these initiatives represent a significant step toward narrowing the resource gap in Ghana’s medical sector and ensuring that high-quality healthcare is accessible to all citizens.

Breast Society of Ghana’s message for PINKTOBER 2026
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Ghana Launches 2026 National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Urgent Call for Early Detection and Support

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has officially launched the 2026 National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Ho, Volta Region, spearheading a nationwide campaign to reduce the impact of the disease. Under the theme ‘Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters’ and a rallying call for ‘Early Action, Better Outcomes,’ Minister Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey highlighted that Ghana records approximately 5,000 new breast cancer cases annually. The campaign aims to transition the national conversation from one of stigma to one of active support, emphasizing that collective involvement from men, boys, and community leaders is essential to addressing the misconceptions that often delay diagnosis. Statistics presented during the launch underscore both the gravity of the challenge and the potential for recovery. The Volta Regional Health Directorate revealed that the region has recorded 1,182 cases over the past five years, with 146 cases in 2026 alone. Nationally, mortality remains high, with figures from the International Maritime Hospital (IMaH) indicating over 2,600 deaths in the past year. However, the Breast Society of Ghana (BSG) provided a powerful incentive for screening, noting that the survival rate for breast cancer in Ghana exceeds 90% when the disease is detected and treated in its early stages. Despite this, many women continue to seek medical attention only when the cancer has reached an advanced stage due to fear, financial constraints, and limited awareness. Medical experts and advocates are intensifying public education on the symptoms and necessity of regular check-ups. Dr. Freda Prempeh, founder of the Ultimate Women Foundation, and specialists from the IMaH have urged women to conduct regular self-examinations and monitor for changes such as new lumps, skin alterations, or changes in breast shape. Dr. Juanita Brehua-Nkansah, an oncology specialist, specifically recommended regular mammography screenings for women aged 40 and above. Experts also stressed that breast cancer is not exclusive to women; men are encouraged to be vigilant regarding their breast health as well. The campaign highlights that while psychological and financial burdens remain significant, proactive monitoring is the first step toward effective management. To facilitate early detection, several organizations have announced free screening initiatives throughout October. The Ministry of Gender is coordinating 10-day free screenings in Accra and local community outreach programs, while IMaH and Fidelity Bank are offering free breast ultrasound and clinical screenings. These efforts are aligned with World Health Organization targets to minimize avoidable delays in treatment. As the ‘Pink October’ activities unfold across the country, health professionals are calling for systemic improvements to ensure that once a case is identified, the journey from diagnosis to treatment is affordable, timely, and supported by a robust healthcare framework.

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, is seen speaking at a podium. The backdrop features Mercy Ships branding and a Ghanaian flag, indicating an official event related to the organization's mission in Ghana.
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President Mahama Visits Global Mercy Ship, Pledges Enhanced Collaboration for Long-Term Healthcare Impact

President John Dramani Mahama has officially welcomed the Global Mercy hospital ship to Tema Port, marking the start of a 10-month humanitarian mission focused on delivering specialized medical care. During a tour of the vessel, the President underscored the government’s commitment to providing free primary healthcare and improving the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). The mission, which represents the organization's fifth deployment to Ghana since 1991, aims to perform more than 2,400 free specialized surgeries and approximately 3,500 dental treatments, specifically targeting individuals in rural and underserved communities who lack access to critical medical interventions. Already, nearly 200 surgeries have been completed since the ship's arrival at the Tema Harbour. The procedures planned for the duration of the stay include cataract removals, cleft lip and palate repairs, and various orthopaedic and plastic surgeries. President Mahama highlighted the transformative effect these operations have on patients, particularly children, noting that restoring physical health significantly boosts their confidence and future prospects. He expressed profound gratitude to Mercy Ships Lifetime Director Dame Anne Gloag and the international crew, while also recognizing the vital role of local Ghanaian volunteers working alongside the global team. Beyond the immediate provision of free surgeries, the government is leveraging this mission to strengthen Ghana’s internal healthcare infrastructure. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced that a formal host agreement between the Ministries of Health, Finance, and Foreign Affairs is in place to facilitate a comprehensive training and knowledge-sharing program. Under this partnership, local health specialists and professionals will engage in skills development sessions with international medical teams. This initiative is designed to ensure that Ghanaian health workers are equipped to handle complex procedures and maintain the high standard of care established during the mission's stay. President Mahama emphasized that the success of the mission must be measured by its lasting legacy rather than just the number of procedures performed. He called for a robust, coordinated system of follow-up care and patient rehabilitation to be managed by the Ministry of Health after the ship’s departure in 10 months. By integrating the mission’s activities with the national health system, the President aims to create a sustainable model of specialist care that continues to benefit Ghanaians long after the vessel leaves port, building upon a partnership that has seen over 2,600 surgeries performed in the country since the early 1990s.

A 3D graphic illustration featuring red cubes arranged in a cross shape against a white background. The vertical cubes spell 'HIV' while the horizontal cubes spell 'AIDS', sharing the central letter 'I'.
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GHANET Launches Online Portal for Confidential HIV Self-Test Kit Delivery Across Ghana

The Ghana HIV/AIDS Network (GHANET) is officially rolling out a new digital platform on October 1, 2026, designed to revolutionize how citizens access HIV testing services. By allowing Ghanaians to request HIV self-test kits online, the initiative prioritizes confidentiality and convenience, aiming to dismantle the barriers of stigma that often deter individuals from seeking testing at public health facilities. This strategic move is part of a broader effort to decentralize health services and empower individuals to take charge of their sexual health in the privacy of their own homes. Developed in collaboration with various health organizations, the online system serves as more than just a distribution point for kits. The platform is integrated with comprehensive resources on HIV prevention and treatment, providing users with immediate access to information on over 700 antiretroviral therapy (ART) centers nationwide. While the self-test kits themselves are provided free of charge to the public, GHANET noted that a nominal fee may be required to cover delivery costs, ensuring that the service remains sustainable while reaching both remote and urban areas efficiently. This initiative comes at a critical juncture in Ghana's public health journey, as the country continues to grapple with significant gaps in HIV awareness and treatment coverage. GHANET has emphasized that despite years of progress, the national response still faces challenges in reaching key populations and ensuring early diagnosis. By leveraging technology to bridge these gaps, health advocates hope to increase the number of people who know their status, ultimately facilitating earlier entry into care for those who test positive and reinforcing prevention strategies for those who test negative.

Eddy Blay (left), Brand Communications representative, assisted by David Tattari (right), Executive Assistant, both from Unichem Ghana Group, presenting the drugs to Yvonne Dasoberi, an Assistant Corporate Communications Officer of the GCGL
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Indus Life and Unichem Ghana Support Graphic Communications Group’s Free Health Screening Outreach

In a significant boost to community healthcare, two prominent pharmaceutical firms, Indus Life Sciences Pvt Limited and Unichem Ghana Group, have donated a substantial quantity of medicines to support the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) in its upcoming annual health outreach. The initiative, scheduled for September 19, is designed to provide free medical consultations and essential treatments to more than 1,000 residents. By combining medical expertise with corporate resources, the program aims to address the immediate health concerns of the populace while fostering a deeper understanding of the benefits of regular medical check-ups. Representatives from both Indus Life Sciences and Unichem Ghana emphasized their organizations' unwavering commitment to responsible healthcare delivery and community empowerment during the donation ceremony. They noted that their participation in the GCGL outreach is part of a broader corporate social responsibility strategy intended to improve access to quality medication for underserved populations. The companies also expressed their gratitude to the Graphic Communications Group for providing a platform that allows corporate entities to directly impact the lives of Ghanaians through such high-impact social interventions. The health screening initiative focuses heavily on the importance of preventive medicine, encouraging residents to undergo diagnostic tests that can identify silent health issues before they become critical. By offering these services free of charge, the GCGL and its partners are removing the financial barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking necessary medical attention. This collaborative effort not only provides relief to the beneficiaries but also highlights the vital role that private-sector partnerships play in augmenting the national healthcare framework and promoting the overall well-being of the nation.

Traditional Priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam Appeals to President Mahama for Visa Assistance for Urgent US Medical Treatment
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Traditional Priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam Appeals to President Mahama for Visa Assistance for Urgent US Medical Treatment

Renowned Ghanaian traditional priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam has issued a public appeal to President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, seeking administrative assistance to travel to the United States for specialized medical care. The priest is requesting the government's support in securing the necessary documentation, including a potential service passport or an official recommendation letter, to facilitate a visa for a skin graft procedure at Harlem Hospital in New York. Bonsam revealed that he has been suffering from a persistent facial wound that has caused him significant distress and sleepless nights. Despite his own expertise in traditional medicine, he noted that previous treatments for this specific ailment have proven ineffective, leading him to seek advanced surgical intervention abroad. He emphasized that the situation has become urgent, requiring the expertise of specialists at the renowned New York facility to ensure a successful recovery. Clarifying the nature of his request, Nana Kwaku Bonsam stated that he is not seeking financial sponsorship from the state. He maintained that he is fully prepared to self-fund the entirety of his medical expenses and travel costs. His appeal is strictly focused on overcoming the bureaucratic hurdles associated with international travel for medical purposes, as he believes official government backing would expedite his visa processing at the US Embassy. The request highlights a unique intersection between traditional practitioners and the state's diplomatic channels. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regularly assists citizens with emergency travel needs, a public appeal to the presidency underscores the perceived severity of the priest's health condition. As of this report, the Office of the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have not yet issued a formal response regarding whether they will provide the requested documentation support.