Story by Eugene Nyarko Jnr. | Mövenpick Hotel, Accra | May 4, 2026
The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and achieving universal health coverage as it hosted the launch of the World Bank’s Regional Health, Nutrition and Population (HNP) Strategy in Accra.
Speaking at the event held at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, described the strategy as timely and critical in addressing the continent’s evolving health challenges.
The launch brought together key stakeholders including the World Bank Vice President, Mamta Murthi, senior government officials, development partners, and representatives from across Africa.
Mr. Akandoh, delivering opening remarks on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, expressed appreciation to the World Bank for selecting Ghana as host of the important regional event.
He noted that Africa continues to face a complex mix of health challenges, including communicable diseases, malnutrition, maternal and child health concerns, as well as a growing burden of non-communicable diseases and climate-related health risks.
“Health remains the foundation of human capital, productivity and sustainable development. No country can build a strong economy on the back of a weak health system,” the Minister stated.
He emphasized that the expectations of citizens are rising, with increasing demand for accessible, affordable, reliable, and quality healthcare services.
The Minister indicated that the newly launched strategy provides a comprehensive framework to tackle shared challenges through investments in health systems strengthening, nutrition, and human capital development, while promoting equity, sustainability, and regional collaboration.
Aligning the strategy with Ghana’s national priorities, Mr. Akandoh highlighted ongoing government interventions aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). These include the Free Primary Healthcare initiative, designed to remove financial barriers at the point of care, and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as “MahamaCares,” which supports treatment for non-communicable diseases such as cancers, kidney failure, and cardiovascular conditions.
He explained that these initiatives, together with the National Health Insurance Scheme, are intended to ensure a continuum of care from prevention and early detection to treatment and financial protection.
The Minister further disclosed that Ghana is developing a comprehensive UHC Compact to align domestic and external resources towards measurable improvements in healthcare delivery, service quality, and accountability.
He stressed that the World Bank’s Regional HNP Strategy complements Ghana’s vision by promoting resilient health systems, sustainable financing, and regional cooperation.
Mr. Akandoh also underscored the importance of “health sovereignty,” urging African countries to strengthen local systems, build institutional capacity, and reduce long-term dependency through purposeful partnerships.
He called for effective implementation of the strategy, noting that its success would be measured by tangible improvements in the lives of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups.
“The Government of Ghana stands ready to work closely with the World Bank, sister African countries, development partners, civil society, and the private sector to ensure the successful implementation of this strategy,” he said.
The Minister subsequently declared the World Bank Regional Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy officially launched, expressing optimism that it would contribute to building stronger health systems and healthier populations across the region.
