President John Dramani Mahama has outlined sweeping healthcare reforms being implemented in Ghana, including a free primary healthcare programme and major reforms to the National Health Insurance Scheme, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s health sovereignty.
Addressing delegates at the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, President Mahama said Ghana was moving “beyond rhetoric” by implementing policies designed to place citizens at the centre of healthcare delivery.
“With one of the most successful national health insurance schemes in Africa, Ghana has an insurance coverage estimated at 66% as of the end of 2025.” - President Mahama
However, he acknowledged that nearly one-third of the population still remains outside the coverage system, while preventive healthcare has historically received limited attention.
Free Primary Healthcare Expanded
Mahama announced that the government has begun implementing a nationwide free primary healthcare programme aimed at removing financial barriers to essential health services, especially in rural communities.
“By removing financial barriers to the most basic and essential services at the rural level, we've ensured that our citizens in the remotest regions of our country also enjoy access to quality health care.” - President Mahama
The President said the initiative is expected to strengthen preventive care and reduce inequalities between urban and rural healthcare delivery.
Mahama also praised the World Health Organization and its Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus for supporting Ghana’s healthcare reforms.
“We're grateful that the WHO, led by Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, was among the first to congratulate us on achieving this significant milestone,” he said.
Government Frees Up GH¢3 Billion for Healthcare
The President further disclosed that the government had removed the cap on the National Health Insurance Fund, unlocking an additional GH¢3 billion for healthcare investment.
“By removing the cap on the health insurance fund, we immediately freed up an additional 3 billion Ghana cedis, equivalent to $300 million for health care investment.” - President Mahama
He said the government has also streamlined NHIS operations through digital reforms and artificial intelligence systems designed to detect fraudulent claims and improve efficiency.
According to him, ensuring prompt payments to healthcare providers remains central to rebuilding confidence in the insurance scheme.
“Because the health insurance scheme is only as strong as the trust between the state and the hospitals that provide the care,” Mahama said.
The President also highlighted the launch of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as “Mahama Cares,” which focuses on supporting patients with non-communicable diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular illnesses and kidney disease.
“Mahama Cares is ensuring that specialised high-cost care is not a privilege for just a few, but is a right for all,” he stated.
Mahama added that Ghana remains on course to exit Gavi vaccine support by 2030 as the country strengthens domestic health financing and healthcare independence.
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