The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has described the 2026 budget as “the most people-focused and health-centred budget” in recent years, emphasising government’s renewed commitment to healthcare investment.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, Mr. Akandoh revealed that GH¢34 billion has been allocated to the health sector, including GH¢11 billion for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
He said the scheme has been stabilised, coverage has increased to 20 million people, and tariffs will rise by 120 per cent next year to reflect realistic service costs.
He announced that a GH¢1.5 billion Free Primary Healthcare package will be rolled out, while the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCare) is now fully operational, supported by GH¢2.3 billion to assist patients.
The Minister also disclosed that construction of three new regional hospitals in the Savannah, Oti, and Western North regions will begin in 2026, with GH¢600 million budgeted for the projects, assuring that no existing health project will be abandoned.
On personnel, GH¢16.7 billion has been earmarked to sustain payment of newly recruited nurses, deploy 700 medical doctors, and ensure timely release of trainee allowances.
Addressing concerns over Zipline drone services, Mr. Akandoh explained that although the service was intended to operate independently, government has been paying over US$500,000 monthly.
A recent review showed only 12 per cent of flights serve hard-to-reach communities, with many used for non-essential deliveries.
He stressed that government is engaging Zipline to ensure value for money, noting that any future agreement must align with the president’s directive for efficient and justifiable spending.
Mr. Akandoh said the 2026 budget demonstrates government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare access and ensuring accountability in public health spending.
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