Ms Keita said contraceptives are not only essential to women’s health but also critical to economic growth, education, and gender equality. She noted that the world is now facing a crisis as supply chains weaken and contraceptive stocks run low in vulnerable communities.

“Contraceptives save lives. For almost 50 years, global health authorities have recognised contraception as essential medicine. People want them, use them, and rely on them every day,” she said in a statement.

The UNFPA chief cautioned that the current funding shortfall could reverse decades of progress in reproductive health, especially in developing countries where women depend on international support for access to family planning.

“Health systems are bracing for a rise in unintended pregnancies, which are in turn linked to higher rates of maternal death, including due to unsafe abortion,” Ms Keita said.

“And the impacts are likely to extend far beyond health care—we can expect to see adolescent pregnancies, school dropouts, and even increased risk of gender-based violence.”

She highlighted that access to contraceptives empowers women and adolescent girls to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. Studies, she said, have shown that when women have access to contraception, they are more likely to complete school, find employment, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

School supplies

“Every $1 spent ending unmet need for contraception yields nearly $27 in economic benefits,” Ms. Keita noted, underscoring the broader socioeconomic importance of sustained investment in family planning.

UNFPA and its partners have, for decades, strengthened health systems and supply chains to ensure the availability of quality, affordable contraceptives even in remote areas.

Ms. Keita urged governments and donors to protect those gains and “work together to keep our promise to women and adolescent girls, uphold their rights and choices, and ensure they have access to the contraceptives they need to plan and forge a healthy and prosperous future.”

The warning comes as several low- and middle-income countries, including those in sub-Saharan Africa, face disruptions in contraceptive supply due to funding cuts and global health financing gaps. 

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Ghana’s own reproductive health services rely partly on UNFPA support to ensure the continuous availability of family planning commodities in public health facilities.

Burkinabé driver escapes death in accident on Accra–Kumasi Highway

I will resign if… Akandoh vows over LHIMS saga [Listen]

The Foundation believes awareness and screening should be held at least twice a year to save more lives through early detection.

Board Chair of the PEADATO Foundation, Dr. Gertrude Asiedu, says the Foundation’s commitment aligns with the global Pink October campaign, which aims to remind women of the importance of regular breast screenings.

“I would encourage all women across all that, do not wait for the 31st of October before you get yourself screened or before you get yourself checked. Make it your priority to continuously check yourself. Check regularly to get yourself saved,” she said.

In collaboration with the Asokwa Municipal Assembly, the Foundation undertook a free breast screening exercise at Gyinase.

The breast cancer awareness program brought together people from various communities, reinforcing one message that could save many lives: early detection is the best protection.

A beneficiary of the program, Joyce Opoku, shared her personal story, expressing how the experience of losing a close friend to breast cancer pushed her to get screened.

“I lost someone I lived with to breast cancer because it was detected too late. That’s why I didn’t hesitate to come to this screening. I want to tell every woman out there don’t wait. Get checked early, because breast cancer is real and can take lives,” she said.

Dr. Asiedu explained that the Foundation’s mission is to educate, inspire, and impact communities.

“PEADATO Foundation is all about inspiring change and giving back to society. Through this initiative, we want to encourage the youth and women to prioritize their health and engage in activities that promote wellness,” she added.

She also appealed to individuals and stakeholders to support the foundation financially, stressing that such contributions are vital to sustain their programs.

The Health Promotion Officer of the Asokwa Municipal Health Directorate, Selena Osei-Tutu, addressed common fears and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer. She cautioned against the use of herbal products or unapproved remedies, advising people to seek professional medical help.

“If you notice any strange signs in your breast, don’t rely on herbs or home treatments. The best step is to visit the hospital for screening and take medical advice seriously,” she said.

The Administrator of PEADATO Foundation, Abena Oforiwaa Dadzie, also emphasized the need for the government to strengthen awareness efforts and equip health facilities with the necessary tools for screening.

She said the initiative was inspired by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global campaign on breast cancer.

“Breast cancer is real, and early detection saves lives. We shouldn’t wait until October to get screened. I believe adding another month to raise awareness and providing hospitals with the needed resources will help us fight this disease better,” she stated.

The PEADATO Foundation, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to improving lives through health, education, and economic empowerment initiatives. Its goal is to support vulnerable groups, promote health education, and reduce breast cancer mortality rates among women and men.

Source: Josephine Sagoe

Management is therefore appealing to government, philanthropists, and benevolent organisations to urgently come to their aid.

Established in 1988, the Centre, which provides rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities and mental health challenges, has not seen any major renovation since its inception.

Public Health Officer and Nurse Manager of the Centre, Harriet Osei-Wusu, described the situation as alarming, noting that the facility’s rooms and essential amenities have deteriorated significantly over the years.

According to her, the Centre also faces severe challenges in accessing and sustaining the supply of essential medications.

Ms. Osei-Wusu underscored the importance of proactive mental health care, urging the public to undergo regular mental health check-ups as part of their wellness routine.

She made the appeal when the Old Students Association of St. Monica’s Senior High School donated food items, assorted drinks, and sanitary materials to support the Centre’s operations.

Global Communication Officer of the Association, Dede Larweh, reiterated their commitment to community service, stressing the importance of giving back to society and supporting vulnerable groups.

The Association also used the occasion to encourage young girls to prioritise education, avoid drug abuse, and make positive life choices that contribute to a brighter future.

The donation formed part of activities marking the 79th Anniversary Celebration of St. Monica’s SHS under the theme: “Quality Education: Embracing a Dynamic and Holistic Approach for the Twenty-First Century.”

Located in Asante Mampong, St. Monica’s SHS has over the years produced outstanding women contributing meaningfully to Ghana’s development across various sectors.

Source: David Opoku

The clarification comes amid growing exchanges between the two officials over the management and performance of the LHIMS project — a system developed to digitise patient records nationwide.

Dr. Okoe Boye had earlier maintained that Lightwave is a fully Ghanaian-owned company, stressing that the nation’s health data is securely hosted within the Ministry of Health and not in India, contrary to circulating reports. He also cautioned that government’s decision to introduce a new platform — the Ghana Healthcare Information Management System (GHIMS) — could undermine the gains made under the LHIMS initiative.

Responding in an interview on Citi FM, Mr. Akandoh accused the former minister of misrepresenting his remarks to divert public attention from the core issues surrounding the digital health platform.

“It is very interesting that Okoe Boye is the spokesperson for Lightwave at this point in time. I have never on this earth stated that Lightwave is not a Ghanaian company.

“So Okoe Boye is setting his own questions and answering them. He should play my voice anywhere that I said that company is not a Ghanaian company,” Mr. Akandoh stated.

The initiative, in collaboration with the Goaso Government Hospital, aims to promote early detection and treatment of breast cancer, particularly among market women who often have limited time to visit health facilities for check-ups.

Speaking to Adom News, Dr. Tandoh expressed concern over the rising number of breast cancer cases in Ghana, noting that an average of 12 women are diagnosed daily — a situation he described as alarming.

He explained that the screening exercise is part of efforts to encourage preventive healthcare and raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis.

“Many of these women are always busy, so bringing the screening closer to them helps them know their health status without disrupting their daily activities,” Dr. Tandoh said.

Participants also received screenings for diabetes, hepatitis, and HIV, with many expressing gratitude to Dr. Tandoh and the medical team for the gesture.

Health officials noted that the exercise forms part of a broader campaign to reduce breast cancer deaths through education, early detection, and timely medical intervention.

Source: Sammy Asare

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The platform, called the Ghana Healthcare Information Management System (GHIMS), was recently launched by the government to replace the Lightwave Health Information Management System, which had been plagued by technical failures and service disruptions, particularly in the Ashanti Region.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced a four-week nationwide migration plan, starting with teaching hospitals, regional hospitals, and major district hospitals, before expanding to other district hospitals, clinics, health centres, and CHPS compounds.

GHIMS is designed to ensure reliable electronic health records, reduce patient processing delays, and prevent a return to manual systems that previously slowed healthcare delivery.

Speaking on Channel One TV, Prof. Beyuo said staff at Ridge Hospital were enthusiastic about the new system’s efficiency and flexibility.

“What I can confirm is that our colleagues at Ridge Hospital are jubilating because the new software introduced is more user-friendly. It is very accessible. People can make changes and customise it to institutional demands. I have personally called the Minister of Health to suggest that Korle Bu should be the next place for piloting,” he stated.

Speaking at a webinar on “Strengthening Vaccine Communication in Ghana,” the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Institute, Dr Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, highlighted the critical role of journalists in shaping public perception and promoting vaccine confidence.

He noted that while Ghana’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) has recorded significant success — with coverage exceeding 85% for most antigens — vaccine hesitancy driven by misinformation, cultural beliefs, and mistrust remains a major challenge.

“A vaccine can only save lives when people understand, trust, and accept it. That is where the media plays a crucial role,” Dr Sodzi stressed.

He commended the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the EPI, the African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN), and media partners for their collaboration in promoting accurate and responsible health reporting.

Dr Sodzi noted that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep global inequalities in vaccine access, underscoring the need for African countries to take charge of their vaccine production. This, he explained, led to the establishment of the National Vaccine Institute under Act 1097 of 2023 to coordinate vaccine research, development, and manufacturing in Ghana.

“The NVI’s vision is to build a self-sufficient, resilient, and innovative vaccine ecosystem in Ghana,” he said, adding that the Institute’s work is guided by integrity, innovation, collaboration, accountability, professionalism, and impact.

Progress Toward Vaccine Independence

Dr Sodzi outlined key milestones achieved under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama as part of the government’s “reset agenda” to strengthen pandemic preparedness and health security.

Among the progress highlighted were:

• Technology Transfer Partnership: A collaboration between Ghana’s Atlantic Lifesciences Ltd. and Indonesia’s PT Bio Farma to accelerate local production of the Tetanus-Diphtheria vaccine by 2026. The partnership also aims to enhance Ghana’s research and technical manufacturing capacity.
• Government’s $50 Million Commitment: In August 2025, the government pledged an additional $50 million in seed funding to the NVI and began developing an Advance Market Commitment (AMC) framework. This will prioritise government procurement of locally produced vaccines and sera, ensuring sustainability for local manufacturers.
• Development of a Legislative Instrument: Work is ongoing to finalise the Legislative Instrument (LI) for Act 1097, which will establish the legal framework for the Institute’s operations and long-term financing.

Media as a Strategic Partner in Health Security

Dr Sodzi stressed that scientific progress must be matched by effective communication, noting that misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic spread faster than the virus itself.

“Accurate and responsible reporting is a matter of national health security,” he said. “Health communication is not a one-time effort; it is a continuous collaboration between scientists, health professionals, and the media.”

He urged journalists to embrace evidence-based reporting, fact-checking, and contextual storytelling to dispel myths and boost public confidence in vaccines and health interventions.

“The story of vaccine development in Ghana is not only about science. It is also about national pride, resilience, and innovation,” he added.

Dr Sodzi reaffirmed the NVI’s commitment to working with the Ghana Health Service, EPI, regulatory agencies, universities, and the media to build a transparent, trusted, and self-reliant vaccine ecosystem.

He concluded by assuring the public that the NVI, in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and vaccine manufacturers, will uphold the highest standards of safety and quality in all production processes.

“The NVI believes that accurate, ethical, and well-informed journalism is a cornerstone of public health. Together, we can build a future where health information empowers, vaccines protect, and every citizen has the opportunity to live a healthy, dignified life,” Dr Sodzi said.

Source: Ivy Setordjie

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Akandoh said that despite receiving more than 70 percent of the contract amount, the contractor failed to complete the assigned work, having connected fewer than half of the planned health facilities.

“They brought me an invoice — why should I pay that, especially when they’ve already received 77 million dollars? At worst, they could have gone to court rather than switching off the system. That’s holding the country to ransom,” he stated.

Mr. Akandoh added that the new Ghana Health Information Management System (GHIMS), developed to replace the malfunctioning LHIMS, has full legal backing from the Attorney General to ensure better control and sustainability.

He assured Ghanaians that all due diligence has been done.

“As Minister, I won’t take a reckless decision,” he affirmed.

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• Former Deputy NSA boss was simultaneously enrolled as National Service personnel

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Akandoh said the government has ensured that facilities are paid monthly, marking a significant improvement over past delays.

“There is no facility under NHIS that can say they haven’t been paid. From January to June, all payments have been made,” he emphasized.

He further disclosed that nursing training allowances are being paid consistently, except during vacation periods, and that school feeding allowances have also been settled.

“This government is very strategic. We make sure our commitments are met on time,” the minister stated.

READ ALSO:

• Health Minister refers Lightwave Health System contract infractions to Attorney General
• Setutsi Goka Ivowi appointed to the Board of Unilever Ghana Plc
• Over 120,000 National Service personnel received allowances for multiple years — Forensic audit report
• Former Deputy NSA boss was simultaneously enrolled as National Service personnel

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Akandoh disclosed that Cabinet has approved the payments and that the Ministry of Finance has directed the Controller and Accountant General’s Department to initiate disbursements.

“From November this year, they will be paid. However, the arrears will be rolled out in phases,” he stated.

At an earlier press briefing, the Minister explained that the delays were caused by the lack of financial clearance for the recruitment of about 13,500 nurses and midwives by the previous administration.

He assured health workers that government is taking steps to address the outstanding arrears systematically while ensuring the sustainability of payroll management within the health sector.

READ ALSO:

• 
  Health Minister refers Lightwave Health System contract infractions to Attorney General
• Setutsi Goka Ivowi appointed to the Board of Unilever Ghana Plc
• Over 120,000 National Service personnel received allowances for multiple years — Forensic audit report

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Akandoh disclosed that the contractor had the power to switch the national health data system on or off “at will,” disrupting healthcare delivery across the country.

“Our forensic audit revealed a gap of about 18 million dollars. Out of the 77 million dollars they received, about 10 to 11 million was meant for 157 facilities, but only seven were completed. When we tried to engage them to prevent disruptions, they refused to give us access to the data unless we altered the contract terms in their favour,” he stated.

Mr. Akandoh described the situation as unacceptable, revealing that the vendor completely shut down the system for nearly two weeks.

He further announced that a new Ghana Health Information Management System (GHIMS) has been developed to replace LHIMS and will be fully owned by the state.

According to him, the new contract has the backing of the Attorney General to ensure transparency and national control.

“I can assure Ghanaians that as Minister, I won’t take a reckless decision. We have done thorough work, and this time, the system will belong to the state,” he affirmed.

READ ALSO:

• 
  Health Minister refers Lightwave Health System contract infractions to Attorney General
• Setutsi Goka Ivowi appointed to the Board of Unilever Ghana Plc
• Over 120,000 National Service personnel received allowances for multiple years — Forensic audit report

Speaking during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, October 29, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh revealed that investigations by his ministry uncovered major breaches in the execution of the Lightwave contract.

Although the contractor delivered less than half of the planned health facility connections, it received over $77 million, representing more than 70 percent of the total contract sum, Mr. Akandoh said.

To address the system’s failures and ensure seamless healthcare operations nationwide, the government has developed a new platform — the Ghana Health Information Management System (GHIMS) — to replace the malfunctioning LHIMS.

“Since we began this journey, all stakeholders have been on board. From the CEOs of the teaching hospitals, the medical superintendent, EOCO, the Attorney General, Minister for Communication, everybody has been on board. So the issue of legality and security issues has been referred to the Attorney General for advice and appropriate action,” the Minister explained.

Mr. Akandoh also disclosed that the Lightwave contract was never presented to Parliament for consideration and accused the vendor of failing to act in good faith, complicating renegotiation efforts.

The government has directed Lightwave to hand over the system and its infrastructure to the state, but this process was complicated by the system being hosted on a cloud platform in India, limiting Ghana’s control over its operations.

The new system, named the Ghana Health Information Management System (GHIMS), replaces the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS), which the government says failed to meet its objectives.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, October 29, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh criticized the company behind LHIMS for underperformance and what he described as blackmail.

“Ghanaians will never go back to the manual way. We are moving forward responsibly, confidently, and decisively. At this point, I would want to share with you the facts, nothing but the facts as we inherited,” he said.

Mr. Mintah Akandoh explained that in 2019, the government signed a $100 million contract with Lightwave to connect 950 health facilities nationwide through LHIMS. The contract, initially set to end in 2022, was extended twice—first to 2023 and later to December 31, 2024—due to delays in implementation.

“At the end of the expiration, out of the 950 facilities, only 450 had been connected. You would all agree with me that a contract meant for three years, extended to five years, but with only 450 facilities delivered, clearly shows the company underperformed,” he said.

He added that although less than half the work had been completed, over 70% of the total contract sum had already been paid.

“By December 2024, the vendor had been paid about $77 million out of the $100 million. Clearly, more than 70% of the total amount had been paid, yet less than 50% of the work was done,” he noted.

The Minister said a forensic audit revealed further irregularities in the supply of hardware, including shortages and poor-quality equipment.

“We realised that even the hardware supply had gaps. If the contract stated that HP laptops should be supplied, cheaper brands were delivered. If it said 100 computers, fewer were supplied. The gap in hardware alone was not less than $18 million,” he stated.

Mr. Mintah Akandoh also raised serious concerns about data security and sovereignty, explaining that LHIMS’s cloud infrastructure was hosted outside Ghana.

“It is unconscionable for any company to have access to the electronic medical records of Ghanaians without the state having control. With the cloud infrastructure built somewhere in India, we had to act,” he said.

The Ministry has referred the matter to the Attorney-General’s Department and relevant security agencies for advice and further action.

Meanwhile, ongoing disruptions in the LHIMS system forced some hospitals to revert temporarily to manual record-keeping, and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) reported service downtimes affecting patient services.

Mr. Mintah Akandoh said the government’s focus now is on restoring stability and ensuring that public health facilities can operate without interruption under the new GHIMS platform.

“As a Ministry, our concern was to find a solution to this mess. Even though we didn’t have any contract with the vendor at the time, we indicated that we were ready to sign a maintenance agreement to cover the 450 facilities. But the software itself was not owned by the state. That is why it was called the Lightwave Health Information Management System. We are now taking full control.”

He explained that the Authority is sensitising market women, drivers, and other informal workers on how to renew their membership using the short code *929#, eliminating the need to physically visit NHIA offices.

“This initiative allows us to connect directly with the public and also helps us gather first-hand information about the challenges members face. These are issues we need to address urgently to make the scheme more effective,” he said.

The Acting Operations Manager for NHIA in the region, Thomas Asante Krobea Opare, also highlighted that the Ahafo Region currently leads the country in active NHIS coverage—a feat he attributed to the dedication of district directors and field officers.

“Our team is determined to ensure that the number of active subscribers keeps improving significantly. The measures in place are working, and we’re committed to sustaining the momentum,” he assured.

The “Market Storm” campaign underscores the NHIA’s goal of expanding health insurance coverage through innovation and community engagement, ensuring that more Ghanaians can conveniently access affordable healthcare.

Source: Sammy Asare

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The handover ceremony, held in Accra and themed “Transfer of Leadership Mandate: From Partnership to Ownership,” brought together the leadership of PharmAccess and SafeCare—both from Ghana and the international headquarters—and CHAG, to celebrate the successful local institutionalization and ownership of one of Ghana’s most transformative healthcare quality initiatives.

The event marked a symbolic milestone — a transition from technical partnership to full local ownership — as PharmAccess, the international health development organization that pioneered the SafeCare standards and quality improvement (QI) approach in Ghana and other parts of the world, officially handed over operational leadership and a sustainable model for continuous implementation of the system to CHAG.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Executive Director of CHAG, Dr Peter Yeboah, described the occasion as “solemn, proud, and deeply meaningful.”

He reflected on a six-year journey that began with cautious optimism and has since evolved into a national benchmark for healthcare quality and safety.

“When we began this partnership about five or six years ago, it was not just another project,” he said.

“It was the birth of a movement that sought to redefine what quality means in healthcare delivery. We came together on the conviction that access to care, though necessary, is not sufficient. What truly saves lives is access to quality, effective, and dignified care — care that treats the human person as more than a statistic, but as a being deserving of compassion and excellence.”

Adding to this, the Executive Director, announced that thirty-nine CHAG facilities have now attained SafeCare Level 4 certification, while others at various levels of quality rating have achieved more than 90% improvement in their scores.

He emphasised that these advancements mark a significant leap forward in healthcare delivery, noting that every improvement contributes to saving lives, strengthening patient trust, and restoring the dignity of care.

To sustain this progress, CHAG has established a dedicated SafeCare Quality Hub — a centre for training, mentorship, and performance monitoring — designed to ensure continuous quality improvement and capacity development beyond the handover.

In addition, CHAG has developed a sustainable business model to support the long-term implementation of the SafeCare system.

The model integrates multiple revenue streams — including member contributions, partnerships programs integration, and a token-based procurement system for facility participation — to ensure that quality improvement remains both financially viable and locally driven.

This approach positions CHAG to independently manage, scale, and continuously enhance the SafeCare program as an integral part of its broader health system strengthening agenda.

The impact of the SafeCare program has extended well beyond CHAG’s network. Working together, PharmAccess and CHAG successfully advocated for the recognition of the SafeCare standards and QI approach by Ghana’s Ministry of Health as a national quality improvement model.

The Ghana Health Service and the Health Facilities Regulatory Authority (HeFRA) have also adopted the framework within their quality assurance systems.

He stressed that the handover should not be seen as an endpoint, but an evolution in Ghana’s health quality journey.

On his part, Dr. Maxwell Antwi, the Country Director of PharmAccess Ghana, reflected with gratitude and resolve, recalling the program’s humble beginnings and hard-won successes.

 “When we began in 2019, the CHAG-SafeCare program was just a concept. Today, it has become the second most unifying factor within CHAG after salaries — and that says a lot for a network that’s been around for more than a century.” Dr Antwi credited CHAG’s leadership — particularly Dr Yeboah and his team — for their unwavering vision and persistence, noting that the partnership thrived because “they viewed health transformation not as a job, but as a mission.”

Adding a global perspective, Ms. Roelinde Bakker, International Director of SafeCare, commended CHAG and Ghana for their achievements, expressing admiration for the scale and impact of implementation in the country. She shared insights from her recent visits to St. James Polyclinic – Abesim and Holy Family Hospital – Berekum, where she witnessed the transformation firsthand.

“SafeCare operates in 25 countries with 39 partners, and CHAG in Ghana stands out as one of our strongest networks. We are extremely proud that more than 350 facilities from the CHAG network are implementing SafeCare. What we have learned from Ghana is shaping how we expand to new countries.”

She praised CHAG’s leadership for extending SafeCare even to remote areas and for empowering healthcare professionals with real-time data and actionable insights.

She concluded by reaffirming that PharmAccess and SafeCare remain committed to working alongside CHAG and the Ghana Health Service to extend quality standards across the entire health sector.

Ms. Bonifacia Benefo Agyei, Country Director of SafeCare in Ghana, commended CHAG for its leadership, vision, and commitment to quality improvement. She noted that the transition marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter of locally led innovation and sustainability in healthcare quality.

She said the handover symbolises more than the transfer of a system; it represents trust, capacity, and a shared vision for quality healthcare for all.

She continued that CHAG has demonstrated that with the proper structure, commitment, and leadership, local institutions can successfully sustain and scale international quality improvement models.

Ms Bonifacia Agyei expressed that PharmAccess is proud to have been part of crafting this transformative journey and remains committed to supporting Ghana’s broader health system strengthening efforts.

She reaffirmed PharmAccess’ confidence in CHAG’s capacity to manage the SafeCare system sustainably, highlighting that the new business and operational model developed by CHAG aligns with global best practices for health system ownership and accountability.

What began under external guidance has matured into a locally owned, nationally recognised model of excellence — one that reflects the power of partnership, purpose and faith in transforming healthcare.

Throughout the month, the series featured powerful conversations, expert insights, and inspiring personal stories that explored different types of cancers, their management, and the journeys of survival and hope.

This playlist brings together all the episodes from the Joy Cancer Month Awareness Series — a must-listen collection for anyone seeking knowledge, encouragement, and a deeper understanding of how together, we can confront cancer with awareness, care, and compassion.

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 15: Retinoblastoma with Dr. Samira Yamyolia

Surviving Cancer: Dede Offei Takes Us Through Her Journey & a Daughter Who Broke Down 3 Years Later

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 13: Ovarian Cancer with Prof. Samuel Antwi Oppong

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 12: Cervical Cancer with Prof. Samuel Antwi Oppong

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 11: Breast Cancer (Part Two) with Prof. Kafui Akakpo

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 10: Breast Cancer (Part One) with Prof. Kafui Akakpo

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 9: Understanding Lung Cancer with Dr. Nana Ama Wadee

 Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series | Episode 8: Understanding Prostate Cancer with Dr. Isaac Aidoo

Joy Cancer Month Awareness Series Ep.7: Liver Cancer

Joy Cancer Month Awareness Series Ep. 6: Colorectal Cancer

Joy Cancer Month Awareness Series Ep. 5: Palliative Care in Cancer Management

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series Ep. 4: Cancer Therapy-Chemotherapy & Radiation

Joy Cancer Month Awareness Series Ep. 3: Cancer Therapy [Surgical Treatment]

Joy Cancer Awareness Month Series Episode 2: Investigative Tools for Cancer Diagnosis

80% of Cervical Cancer Cases Are Preventable – What Ghanaians Need to Know About Cancer Screening

Source: Myjoyonline

Rather, he said they stemmed from issues with software providers managing the scheme’s digital infrastructure.

The clarification came in response to a request by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, who wanted the Health Minister to appear before Parliament next week to brief members on the ongoing disruptions affecting NHIS operations.

In what appeared to be a revealing exchange during last Friday’s parliamentary sitting in Accra, Mr. Ayariga stated, “The problem is not money. The NHIS has funds. The real issue is with the software providers who are failing to deliver a reliable system.”

He emphasised that technical failures had led to frequent system downtimes, frustrating healthcare providers and patients alike.

Mr. Shaib had earlier raised alarm over the persistent breakdowns in NHIS systems, which had disrupted access to healthcare services across the country.

The Weija-Gbawe legislator called for urgent intervention, noting that many constituents are unable to access care due to verification challenges and delays in claims processing.

“The Health Minister must come here and explain what is being done to fix this,” Mr. Shaib insisted, urging Parliament to treat the matter as a national priority.

The NHIS has faced mounting criticisms in recent months over its digital infrastructure.

Hospitals and pharmacies have reported frequent outages in the claims and verification systems, leading to service delays and out-of-pocket payments by insured patients.

Mr. Ayariga’s remarks shift the focus from financial constraints to technical accountability, raising questions about the performance and oversight of contracted software vendors.

Parliament is expected to summon the Health Minister next week to provide a comprehensive briefing on the NHIS’s operational challenges and outline steps being taken to resolve the software issues.

As Ghana continues to expand access to universal healthcare, the reliability of NHIS systems remains critical to public trust and service delivery.

Source: GNA

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“For us to have an effective fight against breast cancer in Asutifi South, efforts must be intensified,” she said.

A midwife at the hospital, Cecilia Newman, expressed concern about the increasing trend of self-medication among women who experience changes in their breasts.

She advised residents to report any unusual breast symptoms to the hospital for professional examination rather than resorting to self-treatment.

“Self-medication is not the solution to fighting breast cancer. Once you notice any strange change in your breast, please visit the hospital for proper care,” she urged.

The hospital’s initiative forms part of Ghana’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which encourages early detection and preventive health practices to reduce fatalities linked to the disease.

Source: Sammy Asare

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Speaking on JoyNews AM Show, Mr. Mahama said the current situation is undermining the efficiency gains made through digital health systems over the past decade.

According to him, storing patient information manually makes it harder for doctors and nurses to access the data they need for diagnosis and treatment.

He noted that such delays can be dangerous in emergencies.

“Once data is stored manually and physical files are kept at a registry, it becomes difficult to trace patient records,” he said. “These unnecessary delays can sometimes cause unnecessary loss of lives.”

Kabiru further explained that digital systems were initially adopted to solve these very challenges by making patient records accessible in real-time and improving coordination among medical staff.

However, the recent disruption of the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) has forced some health facilities to revert to manual and semi-digital procedures.

The setback stems from ongoing financial disagreements between the Ministry of Health and Lightwave eHealthcare Solutions Limited, the private company that has operated the LHIMS platform for more than ten years.

Despite its central role in managing digital patient records and processing insurance claims nationwide, the company has reportedly not been paid for months, leaving its operations unstable.

Kabiru also pointed out that some service providers are now struggling to maintain old or outdated digital infrastructure.

“We have situations where equipment and software have become obsolete due to a lack of investment,” he said.

“Once that happens, health facilities cannot keep up with the times or maintain consistent service.”

The Ghana Health Service and the National Health Insurance Authority have yet to announce a long-term solution to the disruptions, though interim measures are being implemented.

Source: myjoyonline

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Source: Sammy Asare

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The Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS), a web-based software platform, assists in health care delivery and administrative functions.

A visit to some health facilities in the Ashanti region revealed many patients in frustration and anxiety as their lives hung on the thread.
 
At the Ejisu Government Hospital, patients were seen wielding folders in queue to seek medical attention.

 
Their healthcare officers buried their heads in the folders to write their medical data 
Patients have been left distraught, waiting in the long queues.  

“I came here around 7 am and after waiting in long queues I have now been served. If I knew this was the situation, I would have gone to a private facility,” a patient said.
 
The situation has been similar at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Suntreso Government Hospital.
 
Health officers reportedly resorted to writing in exercise books, presenting a physical discomfort to the frontline workers and a financial burden on management.
 
Some facilities confirm losing medical data records of patients since 2023.

 
Many of them are now desperately seeking alternatives to ease the burden.
 
Management of the Manhyia Government Hospital after enduring a week of the discomforting situation has found an alternative digital platform.  
 
When the news team visited the facility, it was evident – the long winding queues witnessed previous days had reduced.

 
For many of these facilities, they urgently want a return to the electronic system.
 
But until then, they must endure some days of pain to their wrists and fingers while the patients cry for expedited healthcare delivery.

Source: Emmanuel Bright Quaicoe

The upgraded facility is expected to significantly improve access to health insurance registration, renewals, and healthcare services for residents, bringing the operations of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) closer to the people.

Speaking to Adom News after the commissioning, Mr Kuyon said the project aligns with his broader vision of strengthening local institutions and improving social services in the district.

“This is the first time Krachi Nchumuru is having an autonomous NHIA office, and it will help bring health insurance services closer to our people. It’s our collective responsibility to ensure that every resident has access to affordable healthcare,” he stated.

The MP also refuted reports circulating on social media suggesting that Krachi Nchumuru did not have an NHIA office, describing such claims as false.

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Krachi Nchumuru, Mr. Martin Kofi Anato, lauded the MP for the initiative, noting that the new facility would create employment opportunities for residents and help reduce unemployment in the area.

Oti Regional Director of the NHIA, Mr. Jelious Nilimor, also commended Hon. Kuyon for his foresight, describing the renovated office as a “game-changer” for healthcare delivery in the district. He assured that his office would deploy adequate staff and ensure proper maintenance of the facility.

The Ankobea Hene of Bejamse Traditional Area and Chief of Chinderi, Nana Okogye, together with community leaders and residents, expressed gratitude to the MP. They noted that the new office would save them the time and cost previously spent traveling to Kete Krachi for NHIS services.

The renovated NHIA office stands as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to decentralize and improve healthcare access in rural communities across the country.

Source: Odehyeba Owusu Job

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The 2026 edition, powered by Apex Africa Concept, will honour outstanding individuals, institutions, and initiatives that have made exceptional contributions to healthcare delivery and public health advancement across the nation.

The nomination window runs from 5th October to 10th December 2025, providing ample opportunity for stakeholders across the country to file submissions through the official website, www.apexafricaconcept.com. The Awards recognise professionals who continue to demonstrate leadership, compassion, and dedication to improving the quality of healthcare services in Ghana.

According to the organisers, the Ghana Medical and Health Awards serve as a national platform to highlight excellence across the medical and allied health professions, while fostering collaboration and motivation within the industry.

Categories span individual and institutional achievements, encompassing doctors, nurses, pharmacists, midwives, laboratory scientists, health administrators, public health advocates, and community health initiatives.

Speaking on the launch of the nomination process, representatives from Apex Africa Concept noted that the Awards seek to “acknowledge the everyday heroes of Ghana’s health sector whose service, innovation, and commitment have positively transformed lives and strengthened healthcare delivery systems.”

Nominees will undergo a comprehensive selection process designed to ensure fairness and merit-based recognition. Winners will be honoured at a prestigious awards ceremony in 2026, where the best in medical and health service delivery will be celebrated.

Members of the public and healthcare stakeholders are encouraged to submit nominations or recommend deserving individuals and organisations before the deadline. For further information, interested parties may contact 059 822 5556 or visit the Awards’ official social media pages at @GhanaMedicalAndHealthAwards.

The Ghana Medical and Health Awards continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration and a driving force for excellence in the country’s health sector, motivating professionals to strive for higher standards of service and innovation.

Source: AdomOnline

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Speaking at the signing of a Performance Contract Agreement, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh commended the Traditional Medicine Practice Council and the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) for their recent actions in shutting down unlicensed practitioners and substandard health facilities.

“I commend some of the agencies that are shaking the system. I’ve heard about the traditional medicine people going around, trying to clamp down on quack practitioners. I’ve also heard about HeFRA; they are shaking the system,” he said.

The Minister, however, urged other regulatory bodies, including the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency (MoFFA), to step up their oversight roles to ensure public health and safety.

“I have not heard much about the FDA. I want to hear the FDA out there. All agencies under the ministry must be visible and execute their mandates, especially MoFFA. There are many mortuaries operating without certification, and that poses serious health risks,” Mr. Akandoh cautioned.

He emphasized the need for stricter regulation of mortuary operations, noting that poor handling of corpses and unrestricted access to dead bodies in some communities could lead to the spread of infectious diseases.

Source: AdomOnline

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This gesture aims to improve service delivery at the hospital, which serves as a referral center for many regions.

The Chief Executive Officer of KATH, Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, expressed his gratitude for the donation, stating that it came at the right time.

“This donation will go a long way in easing the burden on clients who visit the hospital,” he said.

He added, “It is our duty and responsibility to take care of those who visit the hospital.”

The donated equipment includes 40 cardiac tables, 15 electric beds, 20 patient monitors, 15 hydraulic patient stretchers, dual ABS medicine trolleys, 30 folding bed screens.

Others are; 30 wheelchairs, 15 crash trolleys, and 40 drip stands.

The hospital management revealed that the facility continues to face equipment challenges despite its skilled labor and rising demand for services.

Dr. Baidoo added, “We have a lot of needs, we have just one MRI that is working, and it’s faulty. CT scans are not working, and we’re trying to bring these.”

Meanwhile, the church has showed appreciation to the staff of the facility for their dedication in spite of the equipment challenges.

They believe the donation will improve service delivery.

Source: Nana Yaw Gyimah

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Prof. Oppong revealed that nearly 3,000 women in Ghana are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, with almost half dying within 12 months of diagnosis.

“In spite of the dire picture or the gloomy picture painted about cervical cancer, every year from January to December, nearly 3,000 women develop the disease, and nearly half of them will die from it within a year,” he said.

He stressed that while the statistics are grim, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers in women and that sexual behaviour plays a central role in its prevention.

“Cervical cancer is a lot easier to prevent than breast cancer,” he noted. “Yet more women die from cervical cancer than from breast cancer and that’s largely due to preventable risk factors.”

Prof. Oppong explained that cervical cancer is primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that is transmitted through sexual contact. As such, he said, managing sexual activity is a critical part of reducing risk.

“The disease is acquired mainly through sexual intercourse. If we reduce our risk of sexual activity, we reduce our chances of developing cervical cancer,” he said.

He encouraged young girls to delay the age at which they become sexually active, stating that the later one begins sexual activity, the lower the likelihood of contracting HPV.

“The older you are when you have your first sexual activity, the less likely your risk of acquiring HPV infection,” Prof. Oppong said.

He also advised limiting the number of sexual partners, highlighting the difficulty in knowing who might be carrying the virus.

“Reducing our exposure to different sexual partners is key because you don’t know which of them might be carrying HPV,” he warned.

While sexual behaviour was a major focus of his message, Prof. Oppong also emphasised other protective steps, including avoiding smoking, which weakens the immune system and makes it harder to fight off HPV infections.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support immune function. HPV vaccination, which has become more widely available globally and is highly effective in preventing the types of HPV most likely to cause cervical cancer.

Source: Myjoyonline

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Speaking at the 8th Annual General Congress of the Fertility Society of Ghana in Tema, Acting General Secretary of HeFRA, Dr. Winfred Korletey Baa, said the move is part of efforts to respond to the growing sophistication of Ghana’s health sector and fertility centres.

“The sophisticated state of the health sector and fertility centers across the country has forced us as regulators to set up a special tool to regulate that space,” Dr. Baa explained.

He added that the upcoming fertility licensing and inspection tool will introduce clear benchmarks for service delivery. The tool will address key issues such as data security, fertility preservation, and compliance with medical standards in both public and private facilities.

According to Dr Baa, the agency aims to ensure that facilities meet strict operational and ethical standards while safeguarding patient safety and trust.

The regulation of fertility clinics has become increasingly important as more Ghanaians turn to assisted reproductive services. Industry experts have raised concerns about the need for uniform standards, especially around technology use, patient confidentiality, and service quality.

HeFRA’s planned inspection tool is expected to be rolled out in phases, targeting both urban and rural health facilities.

The agency says the initiative will also support the government’s broader goal of improving healthcare quality and accountability in the country.

The Fertility Society’s annual congress brought together fertility specialists, health regulators, and policymakers to discuss best practices and strengthen collaboration within Ghana’s healthcare ecosystem.

Source: Myjoyonline

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Dr. Agyemang urged governments and parliaments to move beyond policy statements and pass binding laws that ensure Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and uphold human dignity.

The event brought together legal scholars, law students, policymakers, and AU officials under the theme “Legislating for Health Justice: Advancing Universal Health Coverage in the Pan-African Context.”

Reflecting on his flight from Accra to Addis Ababa, Dr. Agyemang said the view from above reminded him of Africa’s shared identity despite its unequal realities.

“As our Ethiopian Airlines flight soared from Accra, we crossed the skies above Togo, Benin, Nigeria, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan before descending over the highlands of Ethiopia. Looking down, I saw one Africa — the same rivers, forests, and farmlands, the same vibrant communities and faces. We are one people, yet our realities are profoundly different,” he said.

He likened Africa’s journey toward health justice to a continental flight, with countries traveling at different speeds due to history, governance, and resource disparities.

Dr. Agyemang emphasized that achieving health justice requires strong legal frameworks, constitutional backing, and effective parliamentary oversight.

“Health justice is the heartbeat of development. It calls for a legal order where access to quality healthcare is not a privilege for the few but a right guaranteed to every citizen,” he said. “To legislate for health justice is to legislate for human dignity.”

Drawing from Ghana’s experience, he cited the **National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)** as a landmark effort but urged continuous reforms guided by data and stakeholder input.

“Ghana’s National Health Insurance Act was a pioneering step toward equity in access. But legislative action is not a single event. It must be a living process — informed by evidence, revised financing, and stakeholder participation.”

He further stressed the importance of parliamentary oversight, describing it as “the conscience of democracy” that ensures accountability and protects the interests of citizens.

To humanize the issue, Dr. Agyemang recalled a story from his constituency:

“A few years ago, I met a young mother who had walked more than six kilometres to reach a health centre, only to find that the nurse on duty had no delivery kit. She wrapped her newborn in her own scarf and whispered that she was grateful her child had survived. That encounter taught me that legislation must not only allocate funds; it must protect dignity.”

He also highlighted stories from across the continent — from health workers in Malawi wading through floods to deliver vaccines to mobile clinics in Kenya powered by solar energy.

“These are not acts of charity; they are acts of justice in motion. They remind us that the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage is ultimately a pursuit of equity and empathy.”

Calling for deeper continental collaboration, Dr. Agyemang urged African Union member states to strengthen regional health systems, citing the African Medicines Agency and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) as examples of progress.

“Disease, like poverty, knows no borders. A child’s cough in Lagos, a cholera outbreak in Harare, or a malaria surge in Kisangani can ripple through the continent if we do not stand together. If we can integrate our skies through the African Continental Free Trade Area, surely we can integrate our health systems.”

He praised Ethiopia for its leadership in health diplomacy and called on young African lawyers to become advocates for equity and human rights.

“Every argument you present in court, every brief you write, and every policy recommendation you make can bring health closer to the people who need it most. Health justice must not be an abstract principle debated in parliaments; it must be a lived experience that touches every African home.”

Dr. Agyemang ended his address with a rallying call for unity and action.

“The future of health justice in Africa will not be written by chance. It will be written by those who stand for equity, compassion, and action. Let us legislate, innovate, and collaborate to create a continent where every citizen enjoys the right to health, the freedom to thrive, and the promise of justice.”

Participants described his message as one of the most thought-provoking contributions to the ongoing debate on health law and governance, calling it a “wake-up call” for African legislators to move from policy rhetoric to practical reforms.

Source: Adomonline

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As part of the church’s Evangelism Month and communal duty, Pastor Obeng led a delegation to the Asokwa Children’s Hospital in the Ashanti Region, where they donated medical equipment and other essential items.

Pastor Obeng stressed that children’s health is crucial for their future and destiny.

“We chose to donate to the children’s hospital because their health issues are very important,” he said.

“If they don’t grow to be healthy, it will be difficult for them to fulfill their destiny,” said the Pastor.

He called on religious bodies, NGOs, and philanthropists to support children’s health initiatives in the country.

The Asokwa Children’s Hospital administrator, Benjamin Wiredu, expressed gratitude to the Calvary Charismatic Centre (CCC) for the donation.

He assured that the items would be put to good use and encouraged others to emulate such acts of kindness.

Source: Joseph Obeng

A public health expert, Dr. Nana Kwaku Agyemang Duah, has reaffirmed that morning sunlight remains one of the most reliable natural sources of Vitamin D, even with changing climate conditions.

In an interview with Adom News, Dr. Duah explained that although weather patterns have become less predictable, the early morning hours — particularly around sunrise — still provide the safest and most effective window for Vitamin D absorption.

He, however, cautioned against excessive exposure to direct sunlight, noting that while moderate sun exposure is beneficial, staying too long under intense sunlight can lead to dehydration, sunburn, and, in severe cases, skin cancer.

“The ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause lasting damage to skin cells and increase the risk of skin-related diseases,” he said, adding that prolonged exposure also poses risks to the eyes, including cataracts and other vision problems.

Dr. Duah advised individuals, especially outdoor workers, to take preventive steps such as wearing sunglasses, using protective clothing, and staying hydrated to reduce the health risks associated with long hours in the sun.

Source: Sarah Oku.

Introduction
Hospital laboratories play a central role in disease diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment outcomes.

In general, laboratories play pivotal roles in disease surveillance, with the WHO estimating that about 60% to 80% of all clinical decisions, including those regarding diagnosis, treatment, and discharge, stem from outcomes of accurate and reliable laboratory investigations and data from these laboratories

(1). Despite its critical contribution to healthcare delivery, many public hospital laboratories in Ghana face significant financial and operational challenges. The lack of a dedicated funding mechanism for laboratory operations often leads to frequent shortages of reagents, malfunctioning equipment, and delayed diagnostic services. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need to establish a Hospital Laboratory Account modeled after the existing Hospital Pharmacy Account system

Background and Context
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Ghana faced frequent shortages of essential medicines and significant inefficiencies in procurement. In response, the Ministry of Health (MOH) implemented the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF). Established in 1989 under the ‘cash-and-carry’ scheme, this initiative allowed health facilities to retain proceeds from drug sales to replenish their stock (3,4).

The policy aimed to ensure the continuous availability of medicines while reducing reliance on central government budget allocations. Recognized as one of the most impactful interventions in the health sector, it has fostered self-sufficiency and made affordable medicines accessible to the average Ghanaian. The policy continues to operate under the National Health Insurance System (NHIS) to this day.

Over the years, this mechanism has ensured a steady supply of drugs, improved accountability, and reduced dependence on central government funding (4,5). Public hospital laboratories continue to depend significantly on erratic budget allocations and donor funded programs, which frequently prove to be inadequate or delayed.

The lack of a consistent financial framework hampers their ability to maintain operational efficiency and respond to diagnostic needs.

The sense of professional embarrassment, moral and ethical frustration, and financial irony (given that laboratories are often seen as revenue generators for hospital facilities) substantially affects staff morale.

Furthermore, it raises questions about institutional practices, especially considering the high level of training and expertise of Ghanaian Medical Laboratory Professionals.

It is disheartening to hear the Ministry of Health suggest that outsourcing our laboratories to the highest bidders or relying on equipment placement and profit sharing alone with these hospitals will resolve Ghana’s health challenges, particularly as it attempts to separate the NHIS tariff for diagnostics.

The case of the Taylor & Taylor Company Limited offers critical insights for the Hon. Minister.

The first large-scale equipment placement initiative in the country was destined for failure due to a significant oversight, lacking a sustainable funding mechanism to ensure that the vendor would be compensated for their investment.

Consequently, the funds generated from the equipment placement were diverted into a consolidated fund within the hospitals, which, as is often the case, was poorly managed and inadequately accounted for. To address these issues, the establishment of a Hospital Laboratory Account is essential.

This initiative would enhance the efficiency, accountability, and sustainability of laboratory services within our institutions. Furthermore, it would effectively reduce diagnostic costs, modernize laboratory facilities, and equip them with the necessary tools, all of which align perfectly with the Ministry’s objectives (6,7).

The Case for a Hospital Laboratory Account
Establishing a Hospital Laboratory Account would enable laboratory units to generate, retain, and reinvest revenue from diagnostic services. Such a model, which is intended to follow the mechanisms of the Pharmacy account arrangement, would enhance efficiency, accountability, and sustainability of laboratory operations (8).

The following are additional reasons why there is an urgent need for the creation of the account: Parliament of Ghana. Health Sector Reform and Sustainability Bill (Draft). Accra: Parliament;

Sustainability of Laboratory Operations:
Establishing a dedicated account will guarantee a continuous supply of essential reagents,
consumables, and maintenance of equipment, independent of the often delayed central funding. This ring-fenced account, supported by legal provisions, would safeguard against political interference, even with changing government administrations. Unlike the current scenario, where a new government might replace existing contracts under the guise of “creating jobs for the boys,” this approach would prevent arbitrary shifts in staffing. It also avoids the risk of altering contractual agreements related to equipment placement at facilities or profit-sharing arrangements with facility management, which has been proposed by the ministry (9).

Retooling and Infrastructure Upgrade:
Funds accumulated through laboratory services could be used to procure modern diagnostic
equipment, upgrade infrastructure, and improve service delivery. The recent direction by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, asking management to return funds that were used from the Revolving Drug Fund, is enough assurance that, should the Hospital Laboratory Account be created, there would be no opportunities for mismanagement, as has become the common practice of most hospitals (8,9,10).

Enhanced Quality Assurance:
Financial autonomy would allow laboratories to allocate resources to internal and external quality control programs, accreditation, and staff capacity building, ensuring standardization and reliability of laboratory results (8,9).

Reduced Service Interruptions:
With a revolving financial mechanism, laboratories can and would quickly respond to supply
shortages, avoiding diagnostic service disruptions that affect patient care. It will also eliminate the levels of professional embarrassment, moral and ethical frustration, financial irony (considering laboratories remain the cash cow of hospital facilities), impact on staff morale and institutional reflection that are commonly witnessed in our healthcare facilities, considering the level of training and the pedigree of Ghanaian Medical Laboratory Professionals (comparable to only Nigeria in the sub region) (10).

Improved Accountability and Financial Transparency:
Like the pharmacy account, the laboratory account will promote transparency in revenue generation, procurement, and expenditure tracking (11).

Support for National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS):
By ensuring the timely provision of laboratory services, the account will enhance the strengthening of the NHIS implementation and hospital reimbursement processes (12)

Alignment with Health System Strengthening Goals:
Establishing this account would ensure alignment with the Ministry of Health’s agenda to build resilient health systems and strengthen diagnostic capacity across public hospitals (13).

Legal and Policy Considerations

While no specific Act currently mandates the establishment of a Hospital Laboratory Account, it can be instituted through policy directives from the Ministry of Health, similar to the Revolving Drug Fund. The framework could be integrated into existing hospital financial management systems and aligned with the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), to ensure accountability and transparency. Clear guidelines on fund management, approved expenditures, and signatory authority that safeguard the integrity of the account (14,15).

Expected Outcomes of Establishing the Hospital Laboratory Account
The funds from the Hospital Laboratory Account is expected to provide, among others:

1. A sustainable funding source for routine and specialized laboratory services.
2. A reduction in equipment downtime and an improved diagnostic turnaround time.
3. An enhanced laboratory accreditation, quality assurance, and staff motivation.
4. An increased public confidence in laboratory services within public hospitals and
5. An improved data availability for disease surveillance and health planning (16).

Conclusion and Recommendations

In conclusion, the establishment of a Hospital Laboratory Account is not only necessary but urgent. The Hospital Pharmacy Account system has proven effective in sustaining medicine availability and promoting financial autonomy in Ghanaian hospitals (17). While not explicitly created by an Act of Parliament, its basis in MoH policy and the National Medicines Policy ensures its legitimacy and operational importance. Establishing a Hospital Laboratory Account would provide similar benefits, enhancing sustainability and efficiency of diagnostic services. As the healthcare landscape evolves toward evidence-based decision-making, robust laboratory systems form the backbone of effective diagnosis and treatment. By adopting a model like the Hospital Pharmacy Account, public hospital laboratories in Ghana would achieve financial autonomy, sustainability, and improved service delivery.

It is recommended that:

1. The Ministry of Health develops a national policy framework for Hospital Laboratory Accounts.
2. The Ministry, through its agencies, pilots the system in selected facilities to demonstrate its effectiveness.
3. Laboratory and finance departments collaborate to design transparent accounting and reporting mechanisms.
4. Parliament considers integrating laboratory financial autonomy within broader health sector reforms (18). Thank you.

Source: Dr. Dr. Felix Kodzo Besah Sorvor, President, Democratic Forum for Medical Laboratory Professionals (DFMLP), Dated 16th Oct. 2025.

The event, held as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, drew more than 1,000 participants including healthcare professionals, survivors, policymakers, market women, and members of the public.

Founder and CEO of Avika White, Serwaa Sarfo Mensah, Esq., in her opening remarks, underscored the urgent need to intensify education on breast cancer across all demographics. She stressed that breast cancer affects both men and women and urged everyone to stay informed and proactive.

“Breast cancer does not discriminate between men and women. Everyone must be informed and vigilant,” she said.

She added that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of treatment and improve survival rates. According to her, many advanced breast cancer cases in Ghana could have been prevented through timely screening and proper education.

Sarfo Mensah further called for broader collaboration in tackling the disease, urging individuals, institutions, and stakeholders to play an active role.

“Taking a stand against breast cancer is not just about fighting a disease; it is about saving lives and strengthening our healthcare system,” she noted.

Representing the Vice President, policy advisor to the Office of the Vice President, Mariam Iddrisu, reaffirmed government’s commitment to improving healthcare access for women, especially those in markets and underserved areas. She announced the rollout of free primary healthcare programmes to promote early detection of diseases such as breast cancer.

“The government is prioritising access to early screening and diagnosis through our free primary healthcare policy. This will be essential in identifying conditions like breast cancer at treatable stages,” she said.

Iddrisu also revealed plans to enhance water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in health centres, particularly those serving female traders. She cited the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as Mahama Care, as a key intervention to support patients unable to afford specialist cancer treatment.

She further highlighted the government’s 24-hour economy policy, describing it as a means of improving round-the-clock healthcare access.

“The 24-hour economy aims to ensure comprehensive healthcare is available around the clock, especially for emergencies and critical cases,” she added.

More than 200 individuals were screened on-site during the event. The campaign was supported by 29 organic volunteers, mainly students from the University of Ghana Medical School, as well as medical doctors and doctors of pharmacy. Two breast cancer survivors shared their stories, while representatives from the 37 Military Hospital also participated.

In her closing remarks, Serwaa Sarfo Mensah reiterated that fighting breast cancer requires unity and sustained effort.

“Taking a stand is about saving someone’s life. It’s about building a healthier and stronger Ghana, one family at a time,” she said.

The “Market of Hope” campaign will continue across other markets nationwide, providing education, screening, and support to communities in the fight against breast cancer.

Speaking on Asempa FM Ekosii Sen show, Dr. Okoe-Boye expressed concern that over 70,000 trained health professionals remain jobless, even though the completion of just 30 Agenda 111 facilities could provide jobs for 12,000 to 15,000 of them.

“What concerns me is that the current Minister of Health stated we have over 70,000 health workers at home and not actively working. If nothing else, 30 facilities under the agenda could employ at least 12,000 to 15,000 health workers. There is a pressing problem at hand while hospitals are nearing completion, yet the government has not taken any action,” he said.

He said the government’s prolonged audit of the projects, which has lasted nearly 10 months without results, is stalling progress and allowing hospital structures to deteriorate.

Dr Okoe-Boye emphasised that hospitals do more than create jobs for medical staff; they also stimulate local economies and attract investment.

He urged the government to honour its promise to complete the Agenda 111 projects to ease pressure on the health sector and boost development in rural areas.

“They mentioned conducting an audit, but after nearly 10 months, no one knows the results, and there is confusion about what is happening. The infrastructure is deteriorating. Hospitals do not just create jobs for health workers; each hospital serves as an economic hub that attracts investments.

“We deliberately initiated the Agenda 111 projects mostly outside of urban areas to broaden opportunities, and we constructed roads leading to the hospitals for easy access. They promised to continue these projects, so what is happening now? We are reminding the government of their commitments, and they need to act on it,” he stated.

Source: Farida Seidu| Adomonline

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The outreach attracted over 170 market women and shoppers eager to learn, get screened, and take charge of their health.

Health professionals at the event educated participants on the importance of regular self-examinations and routine screenings, particularly for women aged 40 and above.

Many women expressed deep appreciation for the initiative, with some admitting it was their first time undergoing a breast or cervical examination. The atmosphere was filled with relief, gratitude, and renewed determination to prioritise personal health.

A health talk, delivered by one of the medical practitioners, highlighted the importance of early detection, balanced nutrition, and healthy lifestyle choices in reducing cancer risk.

The session empowered attendees to make informed decisions about their well-being.

Speaking during the exercise, President of the Rotary Club of Accra-East, Rotarian Mary Elorm Addo, explained that the goal was not only to offer free screenings but also to raise sustained awareness about early detection of breast cancer in Ghana.

“We made the event free to the public, which resulted in over 170 women being screened for breast and cervical cancer, with about 35 abnormalities detected,” she noted.

“This campaign aligns with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed globally every October, and it’s part of our broader effort to promote health and save lives through early detection.”

President of the Rotary Club of Accra-Legon East, Rotarian Emmanuel Sessou, commended the government’s commitment to dedicating October to breast cancer awareness but urged for deeper community involvement.

“Awareness must go beyond policy—it must reach every home and every community,” he said. “I call on churches, mosques, and all religious leaders to join this campaign. Their influence is powerful, and they can help spread the message that breast cancer affects everyone—men included.”

Alongside the breast screenings, over 40 women were screened for cervical cancer. For many, it was their first time accessing such services, and they expressed joy and relief at the opportunity. Participants were also offered free blood pressure and blood sugar checks.

Madam Juliet Obeng, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude and urged other women to prioritise their health.

“I encourage all women to get their breasts screened at least once a year. I’m grateful to Rotary for bringing this initiative to our market and hope they return every year to continue raising awareness.”

President of the Rotary Club of Accra-Legon, Rotarian Delasie Torgbegah, also commended the initiative’s success, describing it as a practical expression of Rotary’s commitment to community health.

“Our goal was not only to raise awareness but to actively contribute to the wellbeing of our mothers and sisters at the market,” he shared. “We’re proud to have made a difference and look forward to expanding this impact in the coming years.”

Following the success of this year’s Save the Tatas Project, a joint breast and cervical cancer screening campaign, the participating Rotary Clubs announced plans to scale up the initiative to reach more communities each year.

Partner organisations including Stanbic Bank Ghana, La Nkwantanang-Madina Health Directorate, Theos Medical Concierge, The Health Project, Nightingale School of Nursing, Keukenhof Tulpen, and Pantang Hospital expressed pride in collaborating on such a meaningful cause.

They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting early detection initiatives that save lives.

Participating clubs included the Rotary Clubs of Accra-East, Accra Legon East, Accra Speakmasters, Accra Legon, Accra-Airport East, Accra Dzorwulu, Accra Teshie Nungua, Accra South, Accra North Kaneshie, Osu Oxford Street, Accra Westlands, Akosombo Dam City, Accra North, Accra Achimota, Accra Trinity, Accra Airport Enclave, Rotary Ghana Alumni Association, and the Rotaract Clubs of Accra Adentan, Wisconsin International University College, UPSA, and Accra East.

The event brought together key stakeholders in the health sector, including private healthcare providers, policymakers, and development partners, to explore collaborative strategies aimed at strengthening the role of private health facilities in national healthcare delivery.

In his opening address, Dr. Dr. S. Kwame Buabeng, President of the PHFAoG, highlighted the crucial role private health facilities play in Ghana’s health system.

He stated that the Association’s members deliver some of the best healthcare services available in the country and currently rank second only to government hospitals in terms of patient admissions.

“Our contribution to healthcare delivery in Ghana is significant,” Dr. Buabeng said. “Private health facilities not only complement government efforts but also lead in innovation, quality care, and responsiveness to patient needs.”

He emphasized the importance of aligning with government policies, particularly the Private Sector Development Policy, to create an enabling environment for private health institutions to thrive. According to him, a well-supported private sector can expand access, reduce the burden on public facilities, and improve overall health outcomes for Ghanaians.

The conference featured panel discussions, policy dialogues, and exhibitions, providing a platform for stakeholders to share best practices, identify challenges, and chart a sustainable path forward for the sector.

Highlighting on the theme for the 5th Annual conference, Dr Dr. Kwame Buabeng stated that the “This year’s theme couldn’t have come at a better time as we hope to position the private health sector in a manner to fully drive the benefits ghis policy has to offer” He stated.

The PHFAoG continues to advocate for stronger partnerships with government and other actors to address critical issues such as regulatory reforms, financing, training, and infrastructure development within the private health space.

The conference concluded with a call to action for both public and private sector actors to work together in transforming healthcare delivery and achieving universal health coverage in Ghana.

In her welcome address, the Chairperson for Volta /Oti Agness Mawusi Nkansah also indicated that the theme for the 5th Annual conference could not have come at a better time than this stating that “Across our nation, the demand for accessible quality, and affordable healthcare continues to rise, and the private health sector has become an indispensable partner in delivering that health service, creating jobs,and complimenting government’s effort in this vein.

Source: Odehyeba Owusu Job

Doctors at the facility had suspended services after what they described as “unwarranted attacks” by the Minister and Tamale North MP Alhassan Suhuyini during their visit to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit on April 22, 2025.

They demanded unconditional apologies to Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa and staff, along with the provision of urgent medical supplies and infrastructure improvements.

Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV in response to the criticisms from the Doctors’ Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH), Akandoh said he was surprised that anyone thought he owed an apology.

“There was no need for an apology,” he said. “I was actually surprised about what could cause anybody to be angry, because if anything at all, I thought that the leadership there would have also been worried about the way and manner the medical doctor spoke to his minister.”

Akandoh emphasized that the issue was not personal but one of principle.

“It is not Kwabena Mintah in person I am talking about, but whether you like it or not, at that point you had met your minister. Respect is supposed to be reciprocal,” he said.

The Minister further stated that the doctor involved had shown disrespect during the exchange.

“I was actually taken aback as to why anybody will think that it is the minister rather who should apologise when, in the clear view of everybody, it is rather the medical doctor who had disrespected the minister.”

Akandoh noted that the matter was later discussed with the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), where issues of logistics and equipment at the hospital were also addressed.

“So the Ghana Medical Association came, we sat down, I explained it to them and they said they needed some equipment. So we mobilised and gave it to them and let bygones be bygones,” he added.

Source: Adomonline

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According to her, the fight to reduce incidents of breast cancer can be challenging because some people choose prayer camps over hospitals.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Adom news reporter Kwadwo Obeng Mireku on Nhyira Fm’s ‘Aben Wo Ha News’, she urged women to visit the hospital for regular checkups for early prevention.

The Global Cancer Observatory data on Ghana suggests 5,025 new cases of breast cancer were recorded in 2022, representing 18.4% of all cancers diagnosed in the country.

Out of the number, 2,369 women died, accounting for 13.2% of all cancer deaths.

Other studies reveal that the majority of women with breast cancer in Ghana are under 50years, with some cases reported in women as young as 20 years old.

This trend is attributed to various factors, including people’s myth of spiritualizing the disease.

The President of the Breast Care International, Beatrice Wiafe Addai, says breast cancer is not a spiritual disease nor family curse.

“A thirteen year old girl came to my facility with breast cancer, and with the early detection now she is living strong,” she observed.

She encouraged women to prioritize regular breast check-ups for early detection and treatment.

Source: Joseph Obeng

He was addressing the 23rd Annual General and Scientific Conference of the Medical Superintendent’s Group in Kwahu-Nkwatia, Eastern Region, on Tuesday, October 14.

The Minister said the initiative seeks to enhance preventive healthcare by promoting early detection and effective management of diseases.

“As part of our journey towards universal health coverage, one of the major hindrances is cost. Although we have the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), many Ghanaians, especially from certain parts of the country, are not subscribers. Currently, only about 56 percent of the population is enrolled,” he said.

Mr. Akandoh explained that the policy aims to eliminate financial barriers and expand access to essential health services, particularly in underserved areas.

“What the government is developing now is to ensure that at least primary healthcare is free across the country. This will allow us to strengthen preventive care so we can detect diseases early and manage them properly,” he added.

He further noted that a key aspect of the initiative will focus on retooling healthcare facilities nationwide, in line with the President’s earlier commitments.

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This partnership is intended to raise awareness and raise funds to build the country’s first Centre for Haematology and Clinical Genetics at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, a groundbreaking facility that could save countless lives and end years of painful medical exile for leukaemia patients.

The announcement follows a searing exposé on the devastating reality faced by leukaemia patients in Ghana. For many, a diagnosis of leukaemia is not a death sentence from the disease itself, but from the lack of local treatment options.

A Race Against Time

Every year, dozens of Ghanaians are diagnosed with leukaemia. But in a country without a comprehensive treatment centre, that diagnosis often comes with despair.

Families are forced into desperate fundraising campaigns to send loved ones to India, South Africa, the UK or the United States for bone marrow transplants and advanced care.

Tragically, many patients die before the funds are raised or before a matching donor is found.

A Vision to Transform Care

The Leukaemia Project Foundation has taken up the challenge to rewrite this story. In collaboration with JoyNews Impact Makers Foundation, the foundation is leading efforts to build the Centre for Hematology and Clinical Genetics – the first of its kind in Ghana and the West African sub-region.

The centre will offer comprehensive blood cancer diagnostics, genetic testing and bone marrow transplantation – services currently unavailable within the country.

“This centre will drastically cut delays in diagnosis, expand treatment options, and give patients a real chance at survival right here at home,” President of the LPF, Gerard Hillary Boakye, said.

From Pain to Purpose

As part of plans to raise funds and awareness on the condition, JoyNews will broadcast a Hotline documentary that captures the stories behind the statistics – families racing against time, parents selling their properties, communities rallying on social media – all in a fight to save loved ones.

Through powerful storytelling and expert insights, the film builds a compelling case for why the new centre is not only necessary but long overdue.

A Regional Lifeline

Beyond Ghana, the planned centre at Korle-Bu will serve as a regional hub for haematology and clinical genetics, providing diagnostic and treatment support to patients from neighbouring countries. It represents a bold step toward health equity and medical independence in West Africa.

A Call to Action

The Leukaemia Project Foundation and JoyNews Impact Makers Foundation are inviting individuals, institutions, and corporate bodies to join the effort to make the centre a reality.

Speaking to Adom News during an awareness session with women of the Roman Catholic Church in Bechem, Ms. Sarpong noted that many patients delay seeking medical help, opting instead for traditional herbal remedies.

This, she said, often leads to complications by the time they finally visit the hospital.

“Most of the cases we receive have already deteriorated. Many women first rely on herbal treatments, and by the time they come to the hospital, the condition has worsened,” she lamented.

Ms. Sarpong announced that the Bechem Government Hospital will hold a free breast cancer screening exercise on October 23, 2025, urging especially women to participate and get screened.

She stressed that early detection remains the best way to prevent fatalities associated with the disease and encouraged the public to take advantage of the upcoming screening.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Dr. Afriyie argued that the Akufo-Addo government had already secured financial clearance and paid about 7,000 nurses and midwives by January 2025.

However, he said GHS delayed in employing the remaining health workers despite having clearance since June.

“By January 1st of this year, the Akufo-Addo government had paid about 7,000 nurses and midwives. It was the Ghana Health Service that delayed the hiring process.

“The Minister should query the Ghana Health Service because they had the clearance to hire these professionals since June, yet they were only employed in December. They should be held accountable for this delay,” he said.

His comments come after Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh attributed the delay in salary payments to the lack of financial clearance for the recruitment of about 13,500 nurses and midwives by the previous government, creating payroll challenges within the sector.

But Dr. Afriyie cautioned against politicizing the issue, insisting that technical lapses within the GHS contributed to the current delay.

“Financial clearance for state agencies’ recruitment expires, and in such cases, an extension is required. We shouldn’t always blame politicians for wanting votes; if recruitment were done after the elections, what interest would they have in it?

“It’s easy to cast blame on politicians, but we should also hold the technical staff accountable. They have Human Resources and a Director General who must explain to Ghanaians why there was a delay in recruitment. There is no political advantage in this situation; this is about effective governance,” he added.

Source: Farida Seidu| Adomonline

READ ALSO:

Health Minister blames unpaid nurses’ salaries on lack of financial clearance

We’re aware of financial clearance for 15,200 health professionals – GRNMA

During a press conference on Monday, October 13, Mr. Akandoh announced that Cabinet had approved financial clearance for various categories of health professionals, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists.

However, at a counter press conference, the Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health and MP for Effiduase-Asokore, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, disputed the minister’s assertions, describing them as deceptive.

According to Dr. Afriyie, the financial clearance for the recruitment of health professionals expired on December 31, 2024, under the previous administration, and the Mahama government failed to renew it.

He further alleged that although the former government had made budgetary allocations for the recruitment of 15,000 health workers, only about 7,000 to 8,000 were engaged before the change in administration.

The remaining personnel, he said, were later employed by the Ghana Health Service despite the expiration of their clearances.

The Minority argued that funds for the recruitment were already available, questioning the rationale behind the Health Minister’s decision to seek Cabinet approval for payments to the affected workers.

He asked, “Why didn’t the government see the need to seek an extension? Money was allocated for 15,000; you came in 7,000, and almost 8,000 have started. The remaining were employed by GHS. Albeit they were late, they were at post.

“You didn’t see the need to tell the institutions to reject them. Neither did the institutions tell you to reject them. What it meant was that they filled the gap and needed to be at post, and the institutions used them. Embarrassingly enough, you’re saying that you have taken it to the cabinet for approval. What sort of cabinet approval do you need when you have clearance already?”

Dr. Afriyie further accused the government of attempting to conceal what he described as “a mess” in the management of health sector employment issues.

“He’s throwing dust into the eyes of the people. The government created a mess, and they have seen that ten months have caught up with them, and they are fixing it,” he claimed.

The Minority reiterated that the Health Minister’s comments were misleading and urged him to provide the public with accurate information regarding the status of financial clearances and arrears payments for health professionals.

Source: Adomonline

Addressing a press conference, the Minority accused the ruling government of politicizing public administration and misleading Ghanaians on the matter.

Ranking Member on the Health Committee, Dr. Nana Afriyie Ayew, who led the call, revealed that the previous administration had secured financial clearance for the recruitment and payment of over 15,000 nurses and midwives before leaving office.

He cited a letter dated April 15, 2024, signed by Abena Osei Asare, then-Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, authorizing the Health Ministry to recruit 15,200 nurses and midwives, with remuneration charged to the 2024 annual budget.

Dr. Afriyie Ayew therefore questioned why the health workers remain unpaid despite the approved budgetary allocation and urged the government to honor its obligation without further delay.

Source: AdomOnline

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The announcement was made during the inauguration of a 13-member governing board for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as “MahamaCares,” a key initiative aimed at providing financial assistance for the treatment of chronic non-communicable diseases.

Under the new directive, the government will absorb GH₵500 of the cost per dialysis session at private health centres.

“The current arrangement for payment of dialysis is that if you go to public health facilities, we have a maximum amount of money we pay per session—that’s around 499, something about 500 Ghana cedis. What we have realised is that there are people who also go to private facilities, and so, it’s a necessity; the President has directed us to give what is paid to the public facilities,” he explained.

“So, for example, if you go to private facility A and they are charging you 1,000 Ghana cedis, the government will pay the 500 Ghana cedis, and you top up, to be fair to everybody. So, the CEO for the National Health Insurance has been directed accordingly to take up that challenge,” he added.

Mr. Akandoh further urged corporate institutions and individuals to support the government by contributing to the fund.

“And finally, to also add my voice to the appeal the chairman made to corporate Ghana. We cannot do it all alone. It is the partnership between the government and corporate Ghana that will take us far. There are other corporate bodies who have come on board, like Telecel Group of Companies, and there are some banks as well,” he said.

Source: Adomonline 

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During an inspection visit to the site with the Member of Parliament for La Dadekotopon, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, some contractors raised concerns about delays in construction progress due to funding constraints.

In response, Mr. Akandoh assured them that measures had been taken to release funds to ensure the smooth continuation of work.

“The second IPC has been raised, and we have forwarded it to the Ministry of Finance. We have done some follow-ups together with the Members of Parliament here, and the Ministry of Finance has assured us that it is committed to releasing the funds for this project.

“I am happy that today, the workers are on site and are willing to make progress until payment is made,” he stated.

The Minister expressed confidence that, barring any unexpected setbacks, the project will be completed within two years.

“If everything goes according to plan, we should be done in the next two years. We will ensure that the next budget makes adequate provision for this project. We are not going to abandon it; we will continue until it is fully completed,” he added.

Source: Adomonline 

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He cautioned that such misinformation discourages the public from taking vaccines that play a crucial role in preventing life-threatening diseases.

Speaking at the national launch of the HPV Vaccination Campaign in Osu on Wednesday, October 8, Mr. Akandoh urged parents and caregivers to ensure that children, particularly girls aged 9 to 14, receive the vaccine to help fight cervical cancer in Ghana.

He also encouraged the public to ignore misinformation and conspiracy theories surrounding the vaccine.

“Anytime there’s an introduction of a new vaccine, then the conspiracy theories start, and it has already started. Let me assure you that this HPV vaccine is safe and effective. Ghana is not the first country to administer the HPV vaccine; we’re joined by other African countries.

“This vaccine has been approved by our FDA and the WHO. This is just the beginning of H.E. President Mahama’s free primary healthcare to give preventive healthcare its real meaning,” he said.

Mr. Akandoh added that the HPV vaccine will be integrated into Ghana’s routine immunisation programme to ensure sustained access and nationwide coverage.

Source : Adomonline 

For close to ten years, Lightwave has played a central role in developing, deploying, and maintaining the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS), the core infrastructure powering Ghana’s National E-Health platform.

The company remains proud of its contribution to building one of Africa’s most comprehensive and interoperable health information systems.

Commitment Beyond Contracts

Acting in good faith and often at its own expense, Lightwave has implemented interoperability between LHIMS and several MOH-led initiatives.

These include integrations with the national ePharmacy platform, banking and insurance systems, DHIMS2, the National Identification Authority (NIA), Birth and Death Registry (BDR), GhiLIMS, and Critical Care Child Forms.

All these integrations were completed outside the original project scope and without financial reimbursement.

In addition, Lightwave has independently repaired and replaced failed hardware and network infrastructure at multiple health facilities, notably restoring operations at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital following a fire in its data centre.

These interventions, undertaken beyond warranty and without formal obligation, were made to uphold the MOH’s vision of uninterrupted healthcare delivery.

Sustained Support Amid Delayed Administrative Action

In December 2024, Lightwave officially sought a contract extension to complete Ghana’s National E-Health rollout, anticipating a resolution following the government transition.

Despite the absence of a renewed agreement, the company has continued to maintain and support the LHIMS system for the past nine months, ensuring stable operations, data integrity, and continuity of services across public health facilities.

The LHIMS platform has powered healthcare delivery in government hospitals for over eight years, managing more than 26 million patient encounters.

Lightwave has kept the system running without financial assistance from the Ministry while continuing to pay its staff and sustain operations.

In August 2025, Lightwave informed the Ministry that this arrangement was no longer sustainable. At the Ministry’s request, an invoice was submitted for services rendered outside the formal contract, which remains pending.

By September 2025, the company began adjusting staffing and technical support to match available resources.

These adjustments have led to some delays in maintenance and interventions at certain facilities. Lightwave regrets the inconvenience and assures stakeholders that restoring full operational capacity remains its foremost priority.

The company also notes reports suggesting attempts to attribute system challenges to its performance. Lightwave clarified that LHIMS has reliably served Ghana’s healthcare system for years and that recent disruptions stem from administrative and political delays rather than system deficiencies.

Commitment to Transparency and Constructive Dialogue

To resolve outstanding issues, Lightwave’s CEO accepted an invitation to meet with the Minister of Health and key stakeholders in Ghana. However, the meeting did not achieve the intended objectives and was overshadowed by an unexpected atmosphere.

The company later learned that a temporary travel restriction had been placed on the CEO’s passport, which was subsequently lifted after assurances regarding LHIMS operations.

Throughout this period, Lightwave has maintained professionalism, transparency, and a spirit of partnership in all engagements with government authorities.

Proven Record in National Health IT Delivery

The LHIMS platform stands among Africa’s leading national eHealth systems, enabling millions of electronic patient records, automated health data exchange, and real-time disease surveillance.

Lightwave’s Ghana-based teams have successfully delivered major health IT initiatives, including:

• National Healthcare Digital Platform – integrating government health facilities under one system.
• Integrated Claims and EMR System – improving NHIA operations through automation and fraud detection.
• Disease Surveillance and Early Warning System – providing real-time outbreak monitoring and mapping.

These projects adhere to global standards such as HL7, FHIR, and ICD-10 and have been recognized across the region for innovation and scalability.

A Call for Continued Collaboration

Lightwave reiterates its dedication to Ghana’s E-Health transformation and to ensuring uninterrupted healthcare delivery.

The company stands ready to work with the Ministry of Health to complete all administrative processes and secure the sustainability of the LHIMS platform — for the benefit of patients, providers, and the nation.

Source: Adomonline 

According to data from the Global Cancer Observatory 2022, Ghana recorded 27,123 new cancer cases from over 32 different types of cancers, out of which 17,654, representing 65% died.

The most common cancers in the country include breast (18.4%), liver (14%), cervical (11%), prostate (9.2%), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (5%). Together, these five account for more than half of all cancer diagnoses nationwide.

Among Ghanaian women, breast cancer remains the leading cause of both incidence and mortality, with over 5,000 new cases and approximately 2,400 deaths annually. Among men, liver and prostate cancers dominate the burden.

The five-year prevalence of cancer in Ghana stands at about 63,450 cases, indicating the number of individuals currently living with or recovering from the disease. Yet, the country’s health infrastructure is heavily constrained. There are only six functional cancer treatment centres, three public and three private, serving a population of over 30 million people.

Most of these facilities are located in urban centres such as Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale, making access difficult for those in rural communities.

The high cost of care, coupled with the limited coverage of cancer treatment under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), forces many families to either delay treatment or abandon it altogether.

Global overview: The World’s expanding Cancer burden

Cancer continues to rank among the world’s most pressing public health challenges, claiming millions of lives each year and straining health systems across every continent.

According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022, an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths were recorded worldwide in that year alone.

Today, one in five people is expected to develop cancer during their lifetime, and one in nine men and one in twelve women will die from it.

The most frequently diagnosed cancers globally are lung (12.4%), breast (12.3%), colorectal (9.6%), prostate (7.3%), and stomach (4.9%), which together account for almost half of all new cancer cases.

Despite major advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, the global cancer burden continues to rise, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

While high-income nations record higher incidence rates due to ageing populations and improved detection, LMICs experience higher mortality rates, reflecting disparities in early diagnosis, access to care, and the affordability of treatment.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) projects that by 2040, annual global cancer cases could rise by 60 per cent, reaching over 30 million new cases per year, with developing regions facing the steepest increase.

Africa: Rising cases, unequal access

Across the African continent, cancer has become an emerging epidemic. In 2022, Africa recorded approximately 1.2 million new cases and 763,843 deaths (64%), accounting for around 7% of global cancer cases but over 9% of global cancer deaths.

The age-standardised incidence rate (ASR) for Africa was 132 cases per 100,000, while the mortality rate reached 87 per 100,000, far higher than the global average. This reflects the continent’s limited screening systems, delayed diagnosis, and inadequate treatment infrastructure.

Among African men, prostate, liver, and colorectal cancers are the most prevalent. Among women, breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers dominate. Collectively, breast and cervical cancers account for nearly half of all female cancer deaths across the continent.

The WHO attributes Africa’s high cancer mortality to late-stage diagnosis, weak health systems, and limited public awareness.

Many patients seek medical help only when the disease has progressed beyond curative stages. Compounding this is the concentration of cancer treatment centres in major cities, leaving rural populations underserved and forcing patients to travel long distances for care.

If current trends persist, Africa could face 1.9 million new cases and 1.3 million deaths annually by 2040, nearly doubling the present burden.

Bridging the divide: From Global to local action

The contrast between high- and low-income regions underscores a stark truth: cancer outcomes are largely determined by where a person lives.

In wealthier nations, early detection and advanced therapies have turned many cancers into manageable conditions.

In much of Africa, including Ghana, cancers are often detected too late for successful treatment, and survival depends heavily on financial means.

Experts stress that reversing this trend requires comprehensive national strategies built around prevention, early diagnosis, and equitable access to care.

Public education campaigns, nationwide screening programs, and improved cancer registries are essential first steps. Equally crucial is the expansion of diagnostic facilities and oncology units and the training of specialised health professionals.

Financial protection also remains critical. Expanding NHIS coverage to include full or partial cancer treatment can significantly reduce the number of patients who default on care due to cost.

Source: Anthony Manu |Data and Research Analyst,JoyNews Research

He explained that although the Akufo-Addo government commissioned the three health centres in December 2024, they remained non-functional at the time due to a shortage of staff and hospital beds.

Appearing before the Local Government and Rural Development Committee of Parliament on Tuesday, October 7, Dr. Amoakohene reaffirmed the government’s dedication to completing all Agenda 111 projects.

“With the intervention of the Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, we’ve been able to operationalise three out of the five that were near completion, i.e., Twedie, Suame, which is within your constituency, and then Drobonso. Two additional ones are near completion,” he stated.

“Once we’re able to get Oforikrom done, we should be able to operationalise that one and make sure it is open for the youth. So we have not abandoned the projects as the NPP left for us. We are taking very good care of them, and we make sure that once they are commissioned or started with the taxpayers’ money, to open it for the use for the good people of Ghana” he added.

Source : Adomonline 

He cautioned that toxic exposure is not limited to mining communities.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Dr. Anyimah-Ackah said that all Ghanaians, regardless of their location, are at risk due to the way food is sourced from contaminated regions.

“If you are not in a galamsey zone, you are still at risk,” he stated.

He revealed that crops grown in galamsey-prone areas are absorbing dangerous substances from polluted soil and water, with those toxins eventually ending up in the food consumed by millions of Ghanaians.

“Our food baskets are where galamsey is prone. Crops uptake these substances and they stay in it, and it bioaccumulates in you. Every time you are eating, the levels of these toxicants are building up in you,” he noted.

He explained that many of Ghana’s major agricultural zones overlap with illegal mining hotspots, where the soil and water are often laced with heavy metals and toxic chemicals such as mercury and arsenic.

These substances are absorbed by crops, remain in the food, and gradually accumulate in the bodies of consumers posing long-term risks such as organ damage, developmental issues, and cancer.

Turning to his own community, the toxicologist gave a troubling account of conditions in Winneba.

“In Winneba, where I work and live, we have never had clean water for only God knows how long,” he said.

“Since last year until now, all the water we drink is brown, and it is exposing the next generation.”

Source: Emmanuel Tetteh

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