Ho Teaching Hospital Seeks Government Support Amidst Financial Strains
The Ho Teaching Hospital in the Volta Region is facing significant financial challenges, prompting its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. John Tampouri, to appeal to the government for assistance. Apexnewsgh reports The hospital’s 13th-month salary policy, which aims to retain healthcare workers, has become a substantial financial burden. Currently funded through the hospital’s Internally Generated Funds (IGF), the policy benefits doctors, pharmacists, and allied health workers. Dr. Tampouri emphasized the need for government intervention or a renegotiation of the policy’s terms during the hospital’s 2024 annual review meeting. He highlighted the hospital’s ongoing struggles, including a high attrition rate of healthcare workers who leave for better opportunities abroad. Furthermore, the hospital is grappling with inadequate infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of patients. Designed to accommodate 240 beds, the hospital is now overwhelmed, putting immense pressure on resources. Dr. Tampouri urged the government to equip the hospital with modern infrastructure and medical supplies to improve service delivery. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tampouri assured the public of the hospital’s commitment to providing quality healthcare. The hospital aims to become a leading medical tourism destination in Africa, and with government support, it can overcome its current financial struggles and achieve its vision. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
U.S. Foreign Aid Freeze Sparks HIV Treatment Shortage in 8 Countries
The World Health Organization has sounded the alarm on a crisis unfolding in eight countries, where U.S. foreign aid has been paused, severely disrupting the supply of HIV treatments. Apexnewsgh reports The affected nations, including Kenya, Lesotho, South Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria, Haiti, and Ukraine, are facing a dire situation, with supplies expected to run out in the coming months. At a press conference, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that setbacks in HIV treatment programs could have catastrophic consequences, reversing two decades of progress. The numbers are staggering: over 10 million new HIV infections and three million HIV-related deaths are potential outcomes if the situation isn’t addressed. The foreign aid freeze, implemented shortly after President Donald Trump took office, has also impacted efforts to combat other diseases, including polio, malaria, and tuberculosis. The WHO-coordinated Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network, comprising over 700 sites worldwide, faces potential shutdown, even as measles cases rise in the United States. Ghebreyesus urged the U.S. to ensure that any withdrawal of funding is conducted in a structured and humane manner, allowing affected countries time to find alternative financial support. The situation in Afghanistan is equally dire, with funding shortages threatening to force 80% of WHO-backed healthcare services to shut down. As of March 4, 167 health facilities had already closed, with more than 220 at risk of shutting down by June unless urgent action is taken. The U.S. decision to exit the WHO has also forced the agency to implement hiring freezes and budget cuts. The WHO announced a reduction in its emergency operations funding target from $1.2 billion to $872 million for the 2026-2027 budget period, further exacerbating the crisis. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Association Boosts Bolga Hospital Maternal Care with Generous Donation
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Alagumgube Association has donated essential items to the Maternity Ward of the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital. Apexnewsgh reports The donation, facilitated by Naba Asalia Patrick Ayimbilla, Acting President of the Bolgatanga Traditional Council, aims to support maternal and newborn care in the region. The donated items, which include 2 walkers, 2 beds, 10 mattresses, and 10 pillows, will undoubtedly enhance the resources available at the facility. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Naba Asalia Patrick Ayimbilla emphasized the importance of maternal health in community development. “The health of our community begins with the health of our mothers and children. Every mother deserves quality care, and every newborn deserves a strong start in life,” he stated. The Alagumgube Association’s commitment to giving back to society and strengthening healthcare services in the region is truly commendable. Their donation serves as a shining example of the power of collective efforts to improve lives. As Naba Asalia Patrick Ayimbilla noted, “We believe this contribution will help improve conditions at the maternity ward and provide much-needed comfort for patients.” Dr. Saanwie Aiden, Medical Director of the hospital, expressed profound gratitude to the Alagumgube Association for their generous gesture. He assured the association that the donated items would be used for their intended purpose to benefit mothers and their newborns. The event, attended by traditional leaders, hospital officials, and members of the community, was a testament to the impact of community-driven initiatives. Other personalities present at donation ceremony include Gambibgo Chief Naba Sadik Ayine Inusah, Madam Habib Asuurebuno Alhassan and more. However, Mr. Gabriel Agambila who was also present during the donation event extended his appreciation on behalf of Alagumgube Association, “We are grateful to everyone who participated in the ceremony and thankful to the diaspora members for their timely contribution to the regional hospital donation.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GH₵20 Million Opioid Haul Seized at Tema Port
Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has intercepted a container of opioid drugs worth approximately GH₵20 million at the Tema Port. Apexnewsgh reports The seized shipment, destined for Niger, included a staggering array of opioid-based medications: Rahol Tapentadol 250 mg: 26 cartons Tafradol Tapentadol 120 mg: 160 cartons Timaking Tapentadol 120 mg: 40 cartons Loperamide 2 mg: 190 cartons Chlorpheniramine Maleate: 320 cartons Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured that the government is committed to preventing Ghana from being used as a transit point for opioid trafficking. “We will not allow Ghana to be a safe haven for opioids,” he emphasized, noting that the president is personally invested in the matter. To curb illicit drug shipments, authorities have pledged to tighten regulations and enhance monitoring at Ghana’s ports. This bold move sends a strong message to traffickers and reinforces Ghana’s commitment to combating opioid trafficking. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Free Dialysis Programme in Ghana: Separating Fact from Fiction
Ghana’s free dialysis programme has been at the center of a heated debate, with Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh criticizing the previous administration’s allocation of GH¢4 million to the programme. Apexnewsgh reports However, Former Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr. Anthony Nsiah-Asare, has come out to affirm that the programme is currently operational across selected health facilities.¹ According to Dr. Nsiah-Asare, 20 facilities were published by the National Health Insurance Authority in December 2024 to provide free dialysis services after assessing patients’ needs. He emphasized that these services are ongoing smoothly and have been confirmed by the president of the dialysis association, Major Ahenkra. The programme has been made possible through a three-partner collaboration that brought in 45 dialysis machines to support the free dialysis programme. Additionally, a budgetary allocation of GH¢57 million was captured in the appropriation bill for the first quarter to cover dialysis costs. Dr. Nsiah-Asare’s remarks highlight the government’s efforts to sustain the initiative despite concerns over funding. The free dialysis programme is a significant milestone in Ghana’s healthcare system, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on individuals suffering from renal diseases. In fact, the National Health Insurance Authority has already paid over GH¢1.5 million to several teaching hospitals for treating dialysis patients during the pilot stage. With the programme now operational, thousands of Ghanaians can access quality healthcare services without the financial burden. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Launches Anti-Flood Taskforce to Combat Devastating Floods
President John Dramani Mahama has taken decisive action to address the persistent flooding that has ravaged several communities across Ghana. He has established a high-powered Anti-Flood Taskforce, chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff in Charge of Operations, Stanislav Xoese Dogbe, with Legal Counsel to the President, Marietta Brew, serving as Secretary. The task force sprang into action, conducting an aerial reconnaissance over flood-prone areas, including Weija, the Sakumo Ramsar site, and the Tema Fishing Harbour. This critical mission aimed to gather vital data for long-term flood mitigation strategies. Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe announced the government’s response, emphasizing that stricter measures will be implemented to curb flooding and its devastating impact on communities. “The President is concerned about the persistent flooding, and we’re committed to tackling it head-on,” he stated. As part of this effort, the 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces will immediately begin desilting major drains in partnership with local government authorities. This collaborative effort aims to improve water flow and prevent blockages. Local Government Minister Ahmed Ibrahim assured that flood assessments would extend beyond Accra to other regions, ensuring a nationwide approach to tackling the issue. The Anti-Flood Taskforce is expected to coordinate emergency interventions while developing long-term solutions to prevent future occurrences of flooding in Ghana. The task force’s membership includes key government officials and experts, such as Minister for Water Resources, Works & Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei; Minister for Local Government, Ahmed Ibrahim; and National Security Coordinator, DCOP Abdul Osman Razak. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Agenda 111 Projects: Funding Assurance Raises Hope for Improved Healthcare
Ghana’s healthcare sector is holding its breath as the Presidential Adviser on Health, Dr. Nsiah-Asare, expressed confidence that the 2025 budget will include funding for the Agenda 111 projects. Apexnewsgh reports This flagship initiative, launched under the Akufo-Addo administration, aims to construct 111 hospitals across Ghana, significantly improving healthcare access. With many of these projects nearing completion, Dr. Nsiah-Asare emphasized that he would be shocked if no allocation is made to ensure their completion. “I would be shocked if there is no funding for Agenda 111 in the 2025 budget because most of the projects are at the completion stage,” he stated. However, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has disputed claims that some of the hospitals have been completed. During an inspection of the Atwima Kwanwoma Municipal Hospital, he revealed that construction was still ongoing at sites inaugurated by the previous administration. President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Health Minister to oversee the completion of the Agenda 111 projects and transition their management from the presidency to the Ministry of Health. The president also criticized the previous government’s decision to site hospitals at places where mission hospitals existed, suggesting that collaborating with faith-based organizations to improve existing health facilities would have been a better approach. As stakeholders eagerly await the 2025 budget, concerns over funding and completion timelines remain. The president has proposed an innovative solution, suggesting that faith-based organizations take up some of the uncompleted Agenda 111 projects, complete them, and manage them. With the fate of these critical healthcare facilities hanging in the balance, the upcoming budget will be a crucial turning point in Ghana’s quest for improved healthcare. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Agenda 111 Hospital Projects Incomplete Despite Inauguration
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed a shocking truth about the Agenda 111 hospital projects inaugurated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo. Apexnewsgh reports Despite the fanfare surrounding the inauguration, none of the three projects are fully completed or operational. During an inspection of the Trede facility, Mr. Akandoh discovered that while civil works were about 95% complete, essential aspects like medical equipment delivery, installation, and operationalization were still pending. Moreover, there was no plan in place to recruit healthcare workers for the facility. “The hospitals may look physically complete, but without equipment, staff, and an operational framework, they cannot serve the public,” Mr. Akandoh emphasized. He also expressed concern over the outstanding debt of over $8 million (GH¢10 billion) for the Trede project alone, which poses a significant financial burden on the state. The Minister urged contractors to protect the already delivered hospital equipment from damage and dust until the hospitals are fully operational. He also highlighted the need for urgent rehabilitation of the poor road network leading to the Trede facility to ensure smooth access for patients and medical personnel. Despite these challenges, Mr. Akandoh assured Ghanaians that the government would take necessary steps to complete and operationalize the hospitals, improving healthcare delivery in the affected regions. The Agenda 111 project aims to enhance Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure, with 101 district hospitals, seven regional hospitals, and three psychiatric hospitals underway. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Hands Over CHIP Compound to Logre Community
Nabdam Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane has handed over a newly constructed facility to the people of Logre a community, designed to serve as extra rooms for the Logre CHIP compound. Apexnewsgh reports The MP recalled his visit to the community two to three years ago, where he witnessed nurses providing care to patients under trees, including newborn babies and children. Moved by the situation, the MP designed and constructed the two-room facility to provide a proper health post for the community. The project has been completed, painted in Ghana Health Service colours, and will serve as a significant improvement to healthcare in Logre. The facility’s construction has also attracted government attention, leading to the initiation of a SOCO project, a CHIP compound, which is currently underway. The community had also started an uncompleted structure, which is expected to be completed to form a fully-fledged CHIP compound. The MP expressed his gratitude to the chief, elders, committee members, and the community for their support and participation in the handing-over ceremony. He emphasized his commitment to improving healthcare in the Logre community. Naab Saalima Yidantobig II, the Chief of Logre, who was present during the handing over, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Member of Parliament for Nabdam, for constructing a CHIP Compound in their community. This gesture is a significant improvement to the community’s healthcare infrastructure and will undoubtedly benefit the residents of Logre. Dr. Nawaane’s efforts demonstrate his commitment to the well-being of his constituents, and the community’s appreciation for his work is well-deserved. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Exposes Agenda 111 Hospital Project’s Stunning Inefficiency
President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that a staggering $400 million was spent on the Agenda 111 hospital project under the previous administration, yet not a single facility is fully operational. Apexnewsgh reports This bombshell was dropped during Mahama’s maiden State of the Nation Address in his second term before Parliament. Launched as an ambitious healthcare initiative, Agenda 111 aimed to construct 111 hospitals nationwide, bridging Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure gap. However, despite significant financial commitments, the project has failed to deliver. “It is worth disclosing that USD400m has already been disbursed under agenda 111 project,” Mahama said, emphasizing that not a single hospital under this initiative is serving the people of Ghana. Mahama further suggested that the amount already spent could have facilitated the completion and operationalization of at least 22 of the proposed hospitals if resources had been utilized efficiently. This stark admission highlights the project’s stunning inefficiency and raises questions about the management of public funds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com