In 2025, the Upper East Region of Ghana was rocked by a heartbreaking revelation. Dr. Barimah Baba Abubakari, the Regional Director of Health Services, made a sobering announcement: over 60 women had died from maternal complications in the region that year alone.
This news broke during the unveiling of a new National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) office in Nangodi, Nabdam District. As local leaders, health professionals, and residents gathered in anticipation of better healthcare access, Dr. Abubakari’s words cast a shadow, highlighting a crisis demanding urgent attention from all corners of society.
He explained that these deaths were not inevitable. Many could have been prevented if expectant mothers received timely antenatal care, skilled delivery, and proper postnatal support. Yet, the problem extended beyond the reach of medical services.
Deep-rooted social and cultural practices, he noted, often hinder women from seeking the care they need. Husbands, families, and community leaders all have crucial roles in encouraging women to attend clinics, deliver in health facilities, and seek help at the first sign of complications.
Dr. Abubakari also addressed a persistent challenge: a critical shortage of healthcare professionals. Of the 35 medical officers posted to the region, only six reported for duty, and just one accepted a posting to a district hospital. This left many facilities understaffed, especially in rural areas where the need was greatest.
Despite these difficulties, hope was in the air. The commissioning of the NHIS office was hailed as a positive step, promising to bring health insurance services closer to the people and improve access, especially for vulnerable groups.
Dr. Mark-Kurt Nawaane, Member of Parliament for Nabdam and Chair of Parliament’s Health Committee, reassured the community of his dedication to strengthening healthcare delivery. He stressed the government’s unwavering commitment to universal healthcare by 2030, aligning with the global Sustainable Development Goals.
As the event concluded, stakeholders agreed that the new NHIS office could become a turning point. With collective effort, from policymakers to families, the Upper East Region could look toward a future where maternal mortality is drastically reduced, and every woman has the chance for a safe, healthy birth.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
