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.

It carries testing kits for tuberculosis, cooled storage for vaccines, X-ray machines, and an ultrasound scanner. By SIMON MAINA (AFP)
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Dutch Students Debut 'Stella Juva' Solar-Powered Ambulance in Successful Kenya Field Trial

A pioneering team of Dutch students has successfully concluded the initial test run of 'Stella Juva,' recognized as the world’s first solar-powered ambulance, during a trial period in Kenya. This landmark project aims to revolutionize medical access in remote and off-road regions where traditional emergency services often fail to reach due to poor infrastructure or lack of fuel. By utilizing renewable energy, 'Stella Juva' offers a dual solution: providing reliable medical transport while minimizing the carbon footprint of emergency healthcare delivery. The vehicle represents a significant leap forward in addressing the 'last mile' of healthcare delivery in developing nations. Engineered for endurance and versatility, the 'Stella Juva' is a two-seat vehicle designed to withstand the rigors of rural African terrain. On a single day of sunshine, the ambulance can achieve a range of roughly 715 kilometers, a feat made possible by high-efficiency solar panels integrated into its design. These panels do more than just propel the vehicle; they provide the necessary electricity to power sophisticated medical devices on board. The ambulance is currently equipped with ultrasound scanners and specialized testing kits for tuberculosis, allowing it to function as a mobile diagnostic hub in areas without stable power grids. The potential impact of this technology on public health is significant, particularly in rural Kenya. Geoffrey Sadera, representing Amref Health Africa, hailed the vehicle as a 'game changer,' with a specific emphasis on its benefits for maternal and child health. By bringing diagnostic tools directly to pregnant women in remote villages and providing a reliable means of transport during emergencies, the solar ambulance addresses two of the most critical barriers to reducing maternal mortality. The trial has demonstrated that high-tech, sustainable solutions can be effectively adapted for even the most challenging geographical environments. Beyond its immediate medical utility, the 'Stella Juva' project serves as a call to action for further innovation in sustainable healthcare technology. The success of the Kenyan trial suggests that solar power could be the key to overcoming logistics and energy hurdles in rural development. As the student team looks toward the future, their work highlights how academic research and international cooperation can yield practical, life-saving tools. This successful test run marks a vital step toward a future where healthcare access is no longer dictated by geography or the availability of fossil fuels.

The fumigation exercise at the Ho Central Market
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Zoomlion Ghana Launches Region-Wide Disinfection Campaign to Mitigate Post-Flood Health Risks in Volta Region

Zoomlion Ghana has initiated a comprehensive disinfection and fumigation exercise across the Volta Region to address potential public health threats following recent flooding. The waste management giant, in partnership with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, has deployed personnel and logistics to cover all 18 municipalities within the region. Launched at the Ho Central Market, the initiative is designed to prevent the outbreak of waterborne and vector-borne diseases such as cholera and malaria, which often surge in the aftermath of heavy rains and floods. The regional exercise, which is scheduled to continue until September 19, targets high-traffic public areas including markets, schools, and public toilet facilities. Emmanuel Amemakalor, the Volta Regional Manager for Zoomlion, emphasized that the company possesses the necessary resources to manage the public health challenges arising from the floods. While noting that the flooding in the Volta Region was less severe than in some other areas of the country, he stressed the importance of proactive measures to ensure community safety. Regional health authorities have thrown their weight behind the exercise, highlighting the critical link between environmental sanitation and disease prevention. Stella Kumedzro, the Regional Environmental Health Officer, underscored the necessity of maintaining cleanliness to mitigate the risks posed by stagnant floodwater. She noted that such interventions are essential to safeguard the population from avoidable health crises, particularly when floodwaters contaminate local surroundings. This disinfection program is being conducted free of charge as part of Zoomlion Ghana’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy. By integrating these efforts with local government oversight, the initiative aims to create a cleaner and safer environment for residents across the region. As the exercise moves through various municipalities, officials are urging the public to cooperate with the disinfection teams to ensure the long-term effectiveness of this public health intervention.

PTAG Calls for Urgent Recruitment of 4,000 Unemployed Pharmacy Technicians to Strengthen Healthcare Delivery
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PTAG Calls for Urgent Recruitment of 4,000 Unemployed Pharmacy Technicians to Strengthen Healthcare Delivery

The Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana (PTAG) has issued a pressing call to the government to address the staggering unemployment rate within its ranks, revealing that over 4,000 qualified practitioners are currently without jobs in the public sector. Speaking at the association’s 17th Annual General Conference in Sunyani, PTAG President Pharmatech Michael Gyamprah emphasized that while the government recently initiated the posting of 150 technicians, this figure represents only a fraction of the available workforce and is insufficient to meet the country's healthcare demands. The association is urging President John Mahama’s administration to prioritize the integration of these professionals into the national health framework to improve service delivery across Ghana. Beyond employment concerns, the leadership of PTAG raised critical questions regarding the quality and regulation of professional training. President Gyamprah called for more rigorous supervision from the Pharmacy Council over training institutions to ensure that the curriculum and output of new graduates align with national standards and market needs. He further stressed the necessity of enforcing existing laws that restrict the dispensing of specific medicines to qualified professionals only. This move is seen as vital for safeguarding public health and preventing the mishandling of potent pharmaceuticals, which can occur when unauthorized personnel manage drug distribution. The conference also served as a platform to tackle systemic challenges within the pharmaceutical supply chain. Pharmatech Etse Nkukpornu highlighted the detrimental impact of corruption on the sector, advocating for more transparent and competitive tendering processes. By implementing better oversight in procurement practices, the association believes the government can reduce waste and ensure that essential medications are available and affordable for all citizens. PTAG members argued that eliminating inefficiencies in the procurement process is essential for creating a sustainable healthcare environment. Ultimately, PTAG maintains that resolving the technician unemployment crisis and tightening drug controls are essential steps toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well-being. The association concluded the conference with a call for a unified effort involving healthcare workers, the government, and the public to modernize Ghana's pharmaceutical landscape. As the administration continues its health sector reforms, the PTAG insists that the expertise of pharmacy technicians must be fully utilized to ensure a safer and more efficient healthcare system for every Ghanaian.

GMTF, Sweden Ghana Medical Centre sign MOU to improve access to cancer care
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Ghana Medical Trust Fund and Sweden Ghana Medical Centre Partner to Expand Access to Cancer Care

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) and the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to enhance access to specialized healthcare for Ghanaians. This strategic partnership focuses primarily on cancer diagnosis and treatment for patients suffering from chronic non-communicable diseases. By aligning their resources, both institutions aim to mitigate the significant financial barriers that frequently prevent eligible citizens from accessing life-saving medical interventions. The agreement establishes a sustainable framework for cooperation, ensuring that high-quality, specialized services are available to those in greatest need. During the signing ceremony, GMTF Administrator Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku emphasized that the core of this collaboration is a shared commitment to patient-centered care. Dr. Clement Egyin Edusa, CEO of the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre, expressed strong confidence in the initiative, noting that the Centre’s advanced medical technology will be instrumental in improving health outcomes. This institutional support comes at a critical time when the cost of specialized oncology services remains a primary challenge for many families across the country. The urgency of such partnerships is further highlighted by current health statistics and advocacy efforts from organizations like Breast Care International (BCI). According to BCI President Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, Ghana records over 5,000 breast cancer cases annually, resulting in approximately 2,300 fatalities. BCI, alongside partners like Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, continues to advocate for regular self-examinations and clinical screenings. Experts such as Dr. Elise Cook have noted that early detection is the most effective way to improve survival rates, as swift action upon noticing physical changes can drastically change a patient's prognosis. Beyond the clinical and financial aspects, the human toll of the disease remains a powerful motivator for these healthcare improvements. Recent public reflections on the loss of loved to ovarian cancer underscore the profound emotional impact and the long-lasting grief experienced by survivors and friends. By integrating financial assistance through the GMTF with the technological expertise of the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre and the community-level awareness campaigns led by BCI, stakeholders hope to create a more resilient healthcare system that prioritizes early intervention and affordable treatment for all Ghanaians.

DRC Launches Ebola Vaccination for Health Workers Amid Regional Transmission Fears
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DRC Launches Ebola Vaccination for Health Workers Amid Regional Transmission Fears

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially commenced an Ebola vaccination campaign aimed at protecting front-line healthcare workers and other essential personnel. This initiative comes as the country continues to battle a significant outbreak in its eastern regions, where confirmed cases have surged past the 5,500 mark. The immunization drive is seen as a critical step in safeguarding those most at risk while attempting to curb the spread of the virus within healthcare settings and the broader community. Despite the campaign's rollout, medical experts and humanitarian observers have raised significant concerns regarding the specific vaccine being deployed. The vaccine currently in use is licensed for a different strain of the virus, and its effectiveness against the Bundibugyo strain—which is a primary concern in the current health crisis—remains unproven. Health authorities are monitoring the situation closely to determine the level of protection provided to the medical staff who are frequently exposed to the pathogen in the line of duty, acknowledging that its efficacy is yet to be established. The gravity of the situation in the DRC has prompted urgent international action beyond its borders. Humanitarian organizations and the United Nations have intensified preparedness efforts in South Sudan, particularly in border towns where the risk of cross-border transmission is increasingly high. The proximity of the eastern Congo outbreak to South Sudanese territory has created a pressing need for strengthened surveillance and rapid response capabilities to prevent the virus from establishing a foothold in neighboring nations already facing humanitarian challenges. As the vaccination effort continues, the focus remains on enhancing regional cooperation and ensuring that health workers have the resources necessary to manage the outbreak. The success of these interventions will depend on both the clinical effectiveness of the current medical protocols and the ability of regional partners to coordinate their containment strategies effectively. For now, the international community remains on high alert, prioritizing the containment of the virus within the DRC while safeguarding vulnerable populations across the border through proactive monitoring.

Keta Municipal Hospital Launches Countdown to Historic Centenary Celebration of Healthcare Service
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Keta Municipal Hospital Launches Countdown to Historic Centenary Celebration of Healthcare Service

The Keta Municipal Hospital in the Volta Region has officially launched preparations to celebrate a century of continuous healthcare delivery. Marking a significant milestone for the Ghana Health Service facility, the hospital’s 100th-anniversary celebration is scheduled to culminate in October 2026. This centenary honors a legacy of medical service that has supported Keta and its surrounding communities for a hundred years, cementing the hospital's role as a cornerstone of public health in the region. To commemorate this historic achievement, a comprehensive series of activities commenced as early as July, designed to engage both health professionals and the local community. The planned itinerary includes a prestigious scientific lecture aimed at medical knowledge sharing, inter-hospital games to foster camaraderie among healthcare workers, and extensive medical screening exercises for the public. Additionally, the hospital has organized community clean-up activities, emphasizing the vital link between environmental sanitation and preventive healthcare. Beyond the festivities, the centenary serves as a critical platform for the hospital administration to spotlight its current capabilities and urgent operational requirements. The hospital leadership is using the occasion to draw attention to pressing needs, including the modernization of medical equipment and improvements in staff welfare. By addressing these challenges now, the facility aims to enhance its service delivery and ensure it remains equipped to handle the evolving healthcare needs of the Volta Region’s population into the next century. The celebration is also intended to foster deeper stakeholder engagement and public awareness regarding the hospital's strategic future. As the institution reflects on its 100-year evolution, it seeks to collaborate with government agencies, private partners, and the Keta community to shape a shared vision for healthcare. This milestone marks not just a reflection on past successes, but a renewal of the hospital's commitment to providing quality, accessible healthcare for future generations.

Dr Anthony Apedzi — CEO, St John Ghana
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Ghana's Maternal Health Crisis Under Scrutiny Following Ridge Hospital Tragedy and New Reform Initiatives

The tragic death of 31-year-old Theresa Boakye Dua at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, popularly known as Ridge Hospital, has reignited a fierce national debate regarding medical negligence and the state of maternal healthcare in Ghana. Mrs. Dua passed away on July 16, 2026, following a scheduled Caesarean section, leaving behind a newborn son and a grieving husband, Daniel Ofori Asante, who has publicly accused the hospital of 'gross negligence' and unprofessional conduct. The incident has drawn high-profile condemnation, with Akosua Manu, an advisor to NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, calling for a bipartisan parliamentary investigation, while public figures like Mugeez of R2Bees have demanded strict sanctions against health practitioners to curb rising indiscipline in the sector. This individual tragedy reflects a broader systemic crisis, with the Ministry of Health reporting between 945 and 965 institutional maternal deaths in 2025 alone. While the national maternal mortality rate remains high at 235 per 100,000 live births, there are signs of progress in certain regions. The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi recorded its first decline in maternal deaths in a decade, dropping from 78 in mid-2025 to 55 in mid-2026. KATH CEO Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo attributed this success to the operationalization of a Maternal Intensive Care Unit. However, challenges persist at the primary care level, as the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate revealed that 92% of maternal deaths at KATH involve cases referred from peripheral facilities, highlighting critical gaps in early care and emergency response. In response to these challenges, health authorities and NGOs are launching new interventions to bridge the gap between community care and tertiary hospitals. The Ashanti Region has introduced a 'virtual labour ward' and clinical mentorship programs in collaboration with UNICEF to support staff at referral points. Meanwhile, St John Ambulance Ghana has launched a community-based mother and baby program in Accra aimed at health education and timely volunteer-led referrals. These initiatives align with the government's upcoming health strategy for 2026-2030, which focuses on empowering families to make informed health decisions and ensuring access to skilled care before complications become fatal. Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah has called for a 'National Roadmap for Reducing Maternal Mortality,' emphasizing that the Ministry cannot solve the crisis in isolation. Speaking to stakeholders in Kumasi, she urged for comprehensive collaboration between traditional leaders, NGOs, and medical personnel to identify service delivery gaps and improve the recognition of high-risk patients at the primary healthcare level. As the nation mourns Theresa Boakye Dua, the collective demand for accountability and systemic reform underscores a growing consensus: that childbirth in Ghana must transition from a high-risk ordeal into a consistently safe experience for every mother.

Mortuary Workers Association Demands Professional Respect and Condemns Sensationalist Media Content
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Mortuary Workers Association Demands Professional Respect and Condemns Sensationalist Media Content

The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has issued a stern call for public respect and media integrity following the circulation of sensationalist content targeting their profession. This demand for dignity comes after a controversial video involving a mortuary attendant at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) went viral, sparking significant public backlash and raising concerns about the privacy of the deceased and the professional reputation of mortuary staff. Ebenezer Toku Amankwa, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of MOWAG, emphasized that such actions undermine the professionalism of their field. Speaking on behalf of the association, Amankwa condemned the actions of content creators who prioritize social media engagement over ethical reporting and the sanctity of the mortuary environment. He highlighted that mortuary work is a disciplined profession that has seen significant educational advancements in recent years, moving far beyond the negative stereotypes often portrayed in popular media. Amankwa specifically targeted the practice of filming "disgraceful" videos, which he argued not only degrades the workers but also disrespects the families of the deceased during their most vulnerable times. Beyond digital content, MOWAG also voiced concerns regarding degrading practices often observed during funeral ceremonies and the general public perception of their role. The association is urging media houses and independent vloggers to verify information and seek professional perspectives before publishing content related to mortuary operations. By advocating for higher standards of media responsibility and public conduct, MOWAG aims to foster a more respectful environment for health workers who provide essential services, ensuring that the dignity of both the workers and the departed is upheld.

Teranga Pharma is working with an Indian technical partner to ramp up production and supply other African nations. By SEYLLOU (AFP)
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Global Health Breakthroughs: FDA Approves New Pancreatic Cancer Drug as Senegal Boosts Sickle Cell Treatment Access

The global medical landscape has seen two significant milestones this week, offering new hope for patients battling pancreatic cancer and sickle cell disease. In a major regulatory breakthrough, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a landmark drug that significantly extends the lives of those with pancreatic cancer. Simultaneously, in West Africa, Senegal has taken a historic step toward pharmaceutical independence with the local production of an affordable sickle cell treatment. These developments represent a dual-pronged advancement in health: the introduction of cutting-edge oncological therapy and the expansion of essential medicine accessibility within Africa. The FDA’s approval of daraxonrasib arrived more than six months ahead of schedule, reflecting the urgent need for effective pancreatic cancer treatments. This new drug works by effectively blocking a specific mutated protein that drives tumor growth. Clinical data indicates that patients treated with daraxonrasib experienced a median survival of 13.2 months, nearly double the 6.7 months typically seen with traditional chemotherapy. While medical experts caution that the drug is not a cure, it is being hailed as a major development for a disease that has historically been one of the most challenging and lethal forms of cancer to treat. Meanwhile, in Senegal, Teranga Pharma has launched ‐Drepaf,‑ the first generic version of hydroxyurea to be manufactured on the African continent. This development is a game-changer for sickle cell patients like 18-year-old Mamadou Tahirou, whose life has been severely restricted by the condition. By producing the medication locally in both adult and pediatric dosages, Teranga Pharma aims to reduce the symptoms and hospitalizations associated with the disease while slashing the costs typically linked to expensive imported alternatives. CEO Mouhamadou Sow emphasized that this move is critical for ensuring that life-saving medications are accessible to the populations that need them most. These two achievements underscore different but equally vital facets of modern healthcare. While the approval of daraxonrasib highlights the power of molecular research in tackling complex malignancies, the production of Drepaf in Senegal illustrates the importance of regional manufacturing in achieving health equity. Together, they demonstrate a global shift toward more effective and inclusive medical solutions. For Africa, the move toward pharmaceutical self-sufficiency could pave the way for more locally-made treatments, reducing the continent's reliance on global supply chains and improving the long-term management of chronic conditions.

Dr Danielle Barradas (right), US CDC in Ghana, and Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, launching the document for the strategic roadmap
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GHS Launches GH¢35.4m Roadmap to Establish Public Health Emergency Operations Centres Nationwide

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has taken a significant step toward fortifying the nation's health security by launching a comprehensive national roadmap and framework to establish Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs) across the country. This initiative, designed to create a unified coordination system for managing health crises at national, regional, and district levels, aims to bridge gaps in Ghana’s response infrastructure revealed by previous health emergencies. By decentralizing emergency management, the GHS intends to ensure that the country is better equipped to detect, assess, and respond to public health threats in a timely and efficient manner. At the heart of this initiative are five key strategic documents, including the National PHEOC Strategic Plan 2026–2030 and the National PHEOC Handbook. These documents serve as the blueprint for the GHS's five-year mission to operationalize the emergency centres. GHS Director-General Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea underscored the necessity of this coordinated approach, noting that a structured framework is vital for avoiding the fragmented responses seen during past outbreaks. The roadmap specifically addresses several pillars of emergency readiness, including governance structures, information and communication technology (ICT) integration, logistics management, and the continuous development of the public health workforce. Implementing this ambitious national network is projected to cost approximately GH¢35.4 million over the next five years. This investment will cover the technical and physical infrastructure required to make the PHEOCs functional, ensuring that every level of the health system—from the national headquarters to the most remote districts—can communicate and coordinate during a crisis. The project emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and real-time monitoring, which will be facilitated by the new ICT frameworks being put in place to streamline reporting and response times. The launch event also served as a platform to acknowledge the international partnerships that have bolstered Ghana’s disease preparedness efforts. The GHS bid farewell to Dr. Danielle Barradas of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recognizing her significant contributions to the country's public health landscape. As Ghana begins the implementation of the 2026–2030 strategic plan under the administration of President John Mahama, the focus remains on building a resilient healthcare system. The successful rollout of these PHEOCs is expected to significantly reduce the impact of public health emergencies on both the Ghanaian population and the national economy.

Sudden Health Tragedies Claim Lives of Ghanaian Scholar in China and Kenyan Mother Following Childbirth
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Sudden Health Tragedies Claim Lives of Ghanaian Scholar in China and Kenyan Mother Following Childbirth

The international community is mourning the loss of two African women whose lives were cut short by sudden medical crises under vastly different circumstances. Mercy Yaaba Bredu, a prominent Ghanaian student leader, died in China following a collapse at the airport, while Penina Zawadi, a Kenyan mother, succumbed to complications shortly after delivery. These separate incidents highlight the fragility of health and the devastating impact of unexpected medical emergencies on families and academic communities alike. In August 2026, Mercy Yaaba Bredu traveled from Ghana to China to begin her Master’s degree, a journey that ended in tragedy. During the flight, Bredu reportedly complained of heart pain, which escalated upon her arrival on August 24. She collapsed at the airport while being presented with welcoming flowers and was immediately rushed to a hospital. Despite medical efforts, the former Vice President of the Association of Students of English at the University of Education, Winneba, passed away two days later on August 26, leaving her classmates and community in deep shock. Meanwhile, in Kenya, the family of Penina Zawadi is grappling with a similar tragedy following her death on June 23, 2023. After undergoing a cesarean section to deliver her son, Zawadi experienced severe post-partum hemorrhaging. The medical team performed an emergency surgery to remove her uterus in an attempt to save her life. She was then transferred to intensive care, where she remained for several days before ultimately passing away. Her father, Nixon Charo, expressed the family’s disbelief, as they had fully expected a safe and joyous conclusion to her pregnancy. Both cases serve as sobering reminders of the critical need for rapid medical intervention and robust healthcare infrastructure. While Bredu’s death has cast a shadow over the Ghanaian student body abroad, Zawadi’s passing underscores the persistent risks associated with maternal health and childbirth complications. As these families seek answers and closure, their stories reflect the profound grief caused by the sudden loss of young lives during what should have been periods of great personal transition and achievement.

Christian Council rallies support for Ghana Medical Trust Fund
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Christian Council and Private Firms Mobilize Financial and Medical Support for Ghanaian Patients

A wave of philanthropic activity from the private sector and religious organizations is providing critical support to Ghana’s healthcare system, aimed at easing the financial burden on vulnerable patients. Corporate entities and the Christian Council of Ghana have stepped forward with significant donations and strategic pledges to ensure that medical care remains accessible to those in need. These initiatives highlight a growing trend of collective responsibility in addressing the gaps in healthcare financing and the delivery of preventive services across the country. Leading the corporate contributions, Golden Coast Developers has donated GH"20,000 to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra to assist patients who are unable to settle their medical bills. The donation specifically targets individuals in the general, maternity, and children’s wards. Lady Roberta Blankson, Head of Business Development for the company, emphasized that the gesture is part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mission to alleviate the financial distress of families. This sentiment was echoed by beneficiaries, including a patient's guardian who noted that the timely assistance provided a significant reprieve for their financially strained household. In a similar effort to promote preventive healthcare, pharmaceutical giants Phyto-Riker (GIHOC) and Top-Up Pharmacy Limited have contributed medical supplies and test kits valued at GH"20,000. These items are designated for the Graphic Communications Group Ltd.’s annual free health screening at the Graphic Clinic. The upcoming event is expected to serve over 1,000 residents, providing essential screenings for malaria, hypertension, and various eye conditions. By offering these services free of charge, the initiative seeks to identify health issues early and reduce the long-term medical costs for low-income participants. Beyond direct financial aid, the Christian Council of Ghana has pledged its institutional weight to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF). Rev. Dr. Cyril G. K. Fayose stated that the Council would utilize its extensive network of churches to raise awareness and mobilize funds for the GMTF. The Administrator of the Fund, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, welcomed the partnership, noting that such collaborations are vital to ensuring that no Ghanaian loses their life due to an inability to pay for medical services. Together, these efforts represent a multi-sectoral approach to achieving more equitable healthcare access for all citizens.