The World Health Organization has reaffirmed its support for Ghana’s health sector reforms following a courtesy visit by a high-level delegation to the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, officials said.
The delegation, led by WHO Regional Director for Africa Prof. Mohamed Janabi, met the minister in Accra to discuss strategic partnerships and priority interventions aimed at strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system, with a focus on achieving Universal Health Coverage.
Prof. Janabi commended the government for placing health at the centre of its development agenda, describing recent reforms as bold and timely. He praised initiatives including the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Scheme, the establishment of a Medical Trust Fund and the Free Primary Healthcare programme, noting that they represent critical steps towards easing financial barriers to care.
He highlighted the growing threat posed by non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular illnesses and diabetes, warning that Africa faces a rising burden if early detection and prevention are not prioritised. Drawing on lessons from countries including Mauritius, Janabi stressed the importance of strong primary healthcare systems as the first line of defence against NCDs.
The WHO regional director reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting Ghana through policy guidance and technical assistance, including integrating NCD prevention into community-based healthcare, strengthening referral systems and improving health financing mechanisms.
Akandoh welcomed WHO’s continued partnership and acknowledged the active role of President John Mahama in shaping the country’s health reforms. He said Ghana remained committed to health sovereignty through strong, strategic collaborations.
The minister added that Ghana intends to lead by example, positioning its reforms as a model that other African countries can adapt to strengthen health systems across the continent.