WHO Reaffirms Support for Ghana’s Healthcare Reforms Following High-Level Meeting with President Mahama
Global health experts say that sustained domestic investment in primary healthcare and health insurance is essential for achieving universal health coverage. They note that expanding access to affordable healthcare, while strengthening disease surveillance and regional cooperation, can significantly improve public health outcomes and increase resilience against future outbreaks.
July 25, 2026: Strengthening healthcare systems, expanding access to essential medical services, and improving regional cooperation on disease control were at the centre of a high-level discussion between World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama.
Following their meeting, the WHO chief praised Ghana’s growing commitment to healthcare investment and reaffirmed the organisation’s support for the country’s efforts to achieve universal health coverage under the global goal of Health for All.
Ghana Expands Investment in Public Health
During the meeting, Dr. Tedros commended President Mahama for increasing domestic investment in healthcare through reforms that strengthen the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.
According to the WHO, these measures are expected to improve the sustainability of healthcare financing while expanding access to affordable medical services for citizens across the country.
Health economists often describe domestic investment as one of the most effective ways to build resilient healthcare systems capable of responding to both routine medical needs and public health emergencies.
Free Primary Healthcare to Reach More Communities
President Mahama also shared updates on Ghana’s ambitious plan to introduce free primary healthcare across 150 districts during the current year, with the programme expected to expand nationwide in subsequent phases.
The initiative aims to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, improve access to essential services, and bring medical care closer to local communities, particularly in underserved rural areas.
Public health experts believe that strengthening primary healthcare is essential for preventing disease, improving maternal and child health, and reducing pressure on hospitals.
WHO Reaffirms Partnership
Dr. Tedros reiterated the WHO’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s healthcare reforms through technical cooperation, policy guidance, and collaboration aimed at achieving universal health coverage.
He also thanked President Mahama for personally participating in the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79), highlighting Ghana’s continued engagement in global health discussions and international cooperation.
The World Health Assembly serves as the WHO’s highest decision-making body, where member states discuss global health priorities, disease preparedness, and strategies for strengthening healthcare systems worldwide.
Regional Focus on Ebola Response
Beyond Ghana’s domestic healthcare agenda, the leaders also discussed the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The conversation emphasised the importance of coordinated regional and international action to contain the outbreak, strengthen surveillance systems, and provide humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
The two leaders also recognised that lasting progress in public health depends not only on medical interventions but also on peace and stability, particularly in eastern DRC, where ongoing conflict continues to complicate emergency response efforts.
Health as a Driver of Development
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to the principle that strong healthcare systems are fundamental to national prosperity and sustainable development.
As countries continue working toward universal health coverage, Ghana’s reforms are being closely watched as an example of how increased domestic investment, expanded primary healthcare, and international partnerships can improve public health outcomes while reducing financial barriers to medical care.
The renewed partnership between Ghana and the World Health Organization underscores the growing recognition that investing in health is not only a social responsibility but also a key driver of economic growth, resilience, and long-term national development.
