A delegation from the West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO), led by Director General Dr. Melchior Athanase Joel C. Aissi, has met with Ghana’s Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to explore ways to enhance the country’s healthcare system.
The meeting provided a crucial platform for both parties to discuss key health issues, including disease surveillance, regional health challenges, and strategies for strengthening Ghana’s health system.
Akandoh outlined the government’s key priorities in the health sector, emphasizing the provision of free primary healthcare at Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, district hospitals, and polyclinics.
Additionally, he highlighted plans for the establishment of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to train more specialists and the construction of regional hospitals in the six newly created regions to accelerate efforts toward achieving Universal Health Coverage.
The Minister also sought WAHO’s assistance in institutionalizing the production of national health accounts, policy development dissemination, visibility efforts, and a teacher support program for mental literacy in senior high schools.
Akandoh expressed appreciation for WAHO’s continuous support and urged them to provide assistance in managing the recent cholera and meningitis outbreaks.
He specifically requested support in areas such as the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), antibiotics, and logistical aid to enhance the operations of ambulance and monitoring teams.
Dr. Melchior Athanase Joel C. Aissi reaffirmed WAHO’s commitment to harmonizing policies and strategies to improve community health and the provision of quality healthcare.
He expressed willingness to collaborate with the ministry’s technical team to identify and address specific support needs to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system.
