Nearly 1 in 5 adolescents and young adults have used AI chatbots for advice or help when they felt upset, nervous or anxious, according to a new study published June 1 in JAMA Pediatrics.

Researchers also found that many of these young people use chatbots repeatedly and consider the advice helpful, suggesting that AI is already becoming part of the mental health information ecosystem for millions of young people. Those insights are raising important questions about how these tools should be used and where their limitations lie.

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To help us untangle these questions, I spoke with CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and clinical associate professor at George Washington University. She previously served as Baltimore’s health commissioner and is the mother of two young children.

CNN: What did this new study discover about why so many young people are turning to AI chatbots for support?

Dr. Leana Wen: This study surveyed 1,009 adolescents and young adults ages 12 to 21 across the United States and weighted the findings to represent nearly 43 million young people nationwide. Researchers asked participants whether they had used AI chatbots for advice or help when feeling sad, angry, nervous or stressed.

The team found that 19% reported doing so, which translates to more than 8 million young people nationally. Among those participants who used chatbots for emotional support, many individuals reported doing so repeatedly, with more than 4 in 10 using chatbots at least monthly. Interestingly, young people who had recently discussed their mental health with a physician were more likely to report using AI chatbots, which suggests that these tools are often being employed alongside traditional sources of support.

As to why young people are turning to chatbots, I think the answer is self-evident. These tools are available at any hour of the day, they respond instantly, they do not appear judgmental and they can feel private. For a teenager who is embarrassed to discuss a problem with a parent, teacher or counselor, typing a question into a chatbot may feel easier than starting a conversation with another person.

CNN: The study found that most users considered the advice helpful. Does that mean these chatbots are helping?

Wen: Not necessarily. This is one of the most important distinctions in the study.

The researchers found that more than 91% of users viewed the advice as somewhat or very helpful. That tells us that young people generally liked the responses they received. It does not tell us whether the responses improved their mental health, reduced symptoms of depression or anxiety, or led to better long-term outcomes.

This is a key distinction because AI chatbots are often designed to be engaging and agreeable, even flattering and sycophantic. They can make users feel heard and validated, and to want to come back for more “conversation.” Those qualities may create a positive user experience, but they are not the same as evidence-based mental healthcare.

Consider how this finding applies to other aspects of healthcare. Patients want a warm and friendly interaction with their provider, but it really matters whether the advice is accurate and actually improves someone’s health outcomes. You wouldn’t go to just anyone for your medical care, and you shouldn’t just go to a general-purpose AI tool for your mental healthcare.

CNN: What are the biggest concerns about relying on AI chatbots for mental health advice?

Wen: The first concern is accuracy. These systems can hallucinate and provide incorrect information. They can misunderstand context and offer advice that sounds convincing but is wrong and even dangerous. They are not substitutes for clinical judgment and, importantly, cannot recognize when someone may need urgent intervention.

Second, chatbots may reinforce what users want to hear rather than what they need to hear. If a young person expresses a distorted belief, unhealthy coping strategy or potentially harmful idea, the chatbot may validate parts of that thinking rather than appropriately challenging it.

Third, some adolescents may delay seeking professional help because they feel that the chatbot is providing enough support. For mild stress or everyday frustrations, choosing that type of help may not matter. For serious depression, anxiety, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, a delay in treatment matters a lot. There have been numerous cases in which parents blamed AI bots for mental health harms and suicides in their children. Teens not obtaining appropriate and timely mental healthcare can have very real consequences.

CNN: The researchers found that most young people did not tell anyone they were using chatbots for this purpose. Why is that significant?

Wen: This was one of the findings that stood out most to me. Nearly two-thirds of users said they had not told anyone they were using chatbots for emotional support.

Again, there are understandable reasons, such as privacy. The problem is that parents, clinicians and other trusted adults may have no idea how much AI is influencing how a young person thinks about emotional challenges. If an adolescent is receiving inaccurate information or becoming overly dependent on a chatbot, the adults in their life may never know.

That is why I think parents and healthcare professionals should begin asking about AI use in the same way they ask about social media use. It is becoming an increasingly important part of how young people gather information and seek support.

CNN: Are there situations where AI chatbots can play a positive role in emotional support or mental health?

Wen: Possibly, yes. For instance, AI chatbots may help some people practice difficult conversations, learn basic coping strategies or identify mental health resources. They may also lower barriers for people who are hesitant to seek support. For example, a teenager experiencing anxiety might use a chatbot to learn about relaxation techniques or to develop questions to ask a therapist.

Some AI tools are being built specifically to help patients who are already under the care of a mental health professional. If validated in the future, they may become better alternatives to the generic AI chatbots that we currently have. Again, though, the danger is when AI becomes a substitute for human relationships and professional care.

CNN: What can parents do to support their child’s emotional well-being when AI is becoming part of everyday life?

Wen: I recommend approaching AI much as many families have learned to approach social media. Understand what tools your child is using. Ask open-ended questions. Stay curious rather than judgmental.

Parents can help children understand that AI has strengths and limitations. They can query AI together and see how chatbots can provide helpful suggestions but also emphasize how important it is to verify the information provided and to question responses. That includes typing the same question in different chatbots. And they can certainly emphasize that AI is a tool, not a replacement for a therapist or trusted family member.

I also would encourage parents to model healthy help-seeking behavior. Children should know that asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. They should understand that emotional challenges are a normal part of life and that there are many trusted — human — sources of help available, including teachers, counselors, pediatricians, and, of course, parents and other caregivers.

CNN: What is your advice for adolescents and young adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, sadness or other mental health concerns?

Wen: If you are struggling, please know that you do not have to handle it alone. Speak to your parents or other trusted adults. If symptoms are persistent, interfere with daily life or involve thoughts of self-harm, professional help is especially important. That means contacting your primary care physician or licensed mental health professional.

The initiative, being championed through the National Vaccine Institute, seeks to advance Ghana’s goal of achieving vaccine sovereignty while ensuring a reliable supply of vaccines for citizens.

Speaking to Adom News, several respondents described the move as a major milestone for Ghana’s healthcare and industrial sectors.

“For years, we have depended on imported vaccines and medicines. If Ghana can produce its own vaccines, it will be a big achievement for the country,” one respondent said.

Others noted that local vaccine production could help improve access to vaccines and reduce the country’s vulnerability during global health emergencies.

Although some respondents admitted they were not fully aware of the progress being made towards local vaccine manufacturing, they applauded the initiative and urged government to fast-track its implementation.

“We have good scientists, doctors and health professionals in Ghana. If they are given the needed support, I believe they can produce quality vaccines for us,” another participant stated.

Many respondents also expressed confidence in locally manufactured vaccines, provided regulatory institutions such as the Food and Drugs Authority maintain strict quality and safety standards.

“I trust that the FDA will do its work to ensure that any vaccine produced in Ghana is safe and effective before it reaches the public as they do with other products; we should trust them,” a respondent noted.

Some participants observed that many Ghanaians often place greater confidence in imported medicines than locally produced ones. However, they believe the local vaccine manufacturing agenda presents an opportunity to change that perception.

“We always think foreign products are better, but if our own experts produce vaccines that meet international standards, we should support and trust them,” another respondent said.

The respondents further called for sustained public education and awareness campaigns to address misconceptions about vaccines and encourage public confidence as Ghana moves closer to local vaccine production.

They believe successful local vaccine manufacturing will not only strengthen Ghana’s health system but also position the country as a key player in pharmaceutical production within the West African sub-region.

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Speaking on the sidelines of the launch of the hospital’s centenary celebration, Medical Director Dr. Saanwie Suntaa Aiden said the facility has the personnel and wide range of services needed to support that vision.

“This hospital, I think in terms of personnel and the range of services we render, we are at a teaching hospital level,” he said.

Dr. Aiden, however, noted that achieving the goal would require improved infrastructure and modern equipment, particularly the completion of the New Eastern Regional Hospital project.

“What we need to propel us to the realization of that vision fully is to be able to have a well-equipped facility with state-of-the-art equipment,” he stated.

He expressed optimism about the future of the project following assurances from government that work would soon resume.

His comments came after Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Awatey announced that John Dramani Mahama had directed the contractor handling the New Eastern Regional Hospital project to return to site.

“I am pleased to announce the long-awaited news from the President of the Nation that the New Eastern Regional Hospital project will soon revive its work,” she said.

According to the Minister, the directive reflects government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving access to quality healthcare in the Eastern Region.

Dr. Aiden said the hospital remains hopeful construction will progress as expected.

“We are patiently following the progress of the work, hoping that that can come out very soon. It is a priority area for us as a facility to get to the next level,” he said.

He added that management would continue investing internally generated funds into the development of the hospital while seeking partnerships to support its growth.

“Whatever little we generate, we are going to put it back into the facility to build it to the next level,” he noted.

Dr. Aiden also stressed the need to develop specialist human resources to support the hospital’s long-term ambition.

“We have to be working towards the human resource to be able to function fully as a teaching hospital when we get there. So that is going to be my goal going forward,” he said.

The remarks were made at the launch of the Eastern Regional Hospital’s centenary celebration under the theme: “A Century of Quality Healthcare, Innovation and Excellence.”

Established in 1926, the hospital has served as a major referral facility in the Eastern Region for the past 100 years and is expected to roll out a series of activities in the coming months to commemorate the milestone.

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According to the Minister, the current state of healthcare delivery in the region reflects years of neglect, leaving the government with enormous challenges to overcome.

Mr. Gunu made the remarks during his welcome address to party communicators, Members of Parliament, and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Ho ahead of the launch of the government’s Free Primary Healthcare initiative by the Minister for Health.

He stated that although the health sector remains one of the most critical areas of national development, it is also among the sectors where the current administration inherited significant deficits.

“The health sector is one of the critical areas and one of the very challenging sectors that we have inherited. The Volta Region has seen challenges that should never have existed some eight years ago,” he said.

The Regional Minister revealed that the region currently requires about 253 Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to residents.

He questioned the level of investment made in the sector by the previous administration, arguing that if enough attention had been given to healthcare infrastructure over the years, the region would not be facing such shortages today.

“Today, could you believe that we need 253 CHPS compounds in order to deliver quality health services to our people? We wouldn’t have been where we are today if our predecessors had done well in the health sector. But we accepted the challenge because that is why Ghanaians voted for us,” he stated.

Mr. Gunu noted that the current government has begun taking steps to address the situation, disclosing that every district in the Volta Region is constructing at least two CHPS compounds to improve access to healthcare at the community level.

He further called on party communicators to actively educate the public on government interventions in the health sector and the challenges inherited by the administration.

The Minister for Health was in Ho to officially launch the government’s Free Primary Healthcare programme in the Volta Region, an initiative aimed at expanding access to essential healthcare services and strengthening primary healthcare delivery across the country.

The launch brought together party executives, traditional leaders, health officials, MMDCEs, Members of Parliament and other stakeholders committed to improving healthcare outcomes in the region.

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The facility was commissioned by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in 2025 but has yet to begin operations due to a series of infrastructural and administrative challenges.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News , Prof. Beyuo said progress is being made in addressing the key bottlenecks hindering the hospital’s operation, expressing optimism that it will be opened within the year.

He explained that authorities are currently reviewing discrepancies between claims made by the contractor and assessments conducted by the Ministry of Finance, a process he said is necessary to ensure accuracy before any payments are finalised.

Prof. Beyuo, however, disclosed that based on his latest briefing from the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, government is working with an even shorter timeline to operationalise the facility.

According to him, the minister is pressing relevant agencies to expedite work on the hospital, stressing that it is expected to be opened earlier than the end of the year, though he could not disclose the exact timeline.

“From my last briefing from the Minister for Health, he is not expecting up to the end of the year. In fact, he has a much shorter timeline which I won’t disclose because I don’t know if I have his authority to disclose,” he said.

His comments come amid renewed calls from the Minority in Parliament for the swift operationalisation of the 500-bed facility, which is expected to ease congestion and bed shortages at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, she said she has been approached by several women who confide in her about challenges in their marriages and how such alternatives are helping them manage intimacy gaps.

“The number of people who come to me to talk about this issue of sex toys,” she said, adding that many of the women raising these concerns are married and seeking ways to cope when their husbands travel frequently for work.

According to her, some of the women say the use of such products helps them remain faithful in their marriages. “Those whose husbands travel for work and because they don’t want to be promiscuous,” she explained.

Nana Yaa Jantuah also noted that her initial exposure to the subject came through conversations with a woman who had to explain what sex toys were after she admitted she was unfamiliar with them.

“I have never seen one before or even know how it looks like,” she said.

She recounted that after the first explanation, she became more aware of ongoing public discussions around the topic and its growing presence in conversations about relationships and marriage.

“The first person who spoke to me, and I told her I didn’t know what it was or looked like, she described it to me and told me that it is in the law, and after that I have heard a lot of conversations about it,” she added.

She further argued that open discussions around sex and intimacy are important for strengthening relationships and preventing misinformation, especially among young people.

“And if I say saving marriages, we should also demystify the issue of sex, because if we don’t talk to our children about it at home, things about sex then they will learn on the streets,” she said.

Her comments have since generated public debate on the role of sex education and intimacy tools in modern marriages.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Dr Nawaane said the concerns being raised by the Minority over stalled health projects mirror the approach the current government adopted while in opposition.

“What the Minority is doing now, we did the same when we were in the Minority,” he said.

His comments come after Minority members on Parliament’s Health Committee, led by Ranking Member Dr Nana Ayew Afriyie, toured several health facilities in the Ashanti Region amid concerns over pressure on health infrastructure, including challenges facing the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

Dr Nawaane accused the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration of leaving several projects abandoned for years.

“They should continue weeding. They left those projects there for eight years before we came to power,” he stated.

According to him, some of the facilities had deteriorated significantly due to years of neglect.

“When we went there, all the equipment had been damaged and was no longer fit for purpose. They attempted to commission the facilities, but they couldn’t,” he alleged.

The Health Committee Chair noted that the Sewua and Afari hospital projects were initiated during President John Mahama’s first term in office but remained incomplete throughout the NPP administration.

“The projects in Sewua and Afari were projects Mahama started during his first term,” he said.

Dr Nawaane explained that the government is prioritising economic stability while working to complete abandoned projects.

“When we came, the economy was in intensive care and we have started fixing it,” he said.

He stressed that the government would not resort to excessive borrowing to complete projects.

“We are not going to borrow from external sources for projects. Last year, we used our internal resources. We don’t want to go down the borrowing path anymore because we need to stabilise the economy,” he explained.

Despite the challenges, Dr Nawaane assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to completing all unfinished health projects across the country.

“We are committed to completing all the uncompleted projects they left behind,” he added.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, the Bosomtwe MP expressed disappointment over the delay in opening the Agenda 111 Hospital at Trede and the Sewua Hospital, both of which he said are ready for use.

“What wrong has Ashanti Region done?” he asked.

According to Dr Afriyie, the Agenda 111 Hospital at Trede only requires personnel to begin operations, as all the necessary infrastructure has been completed.

“At Trede, the Agenda 111 hospital has been completed with all the doctors’ bungalows fully completed. All that is needed now is the staff. The road leading to the hospital is there, electricity is there and everything is ready,” he said.

He questioned why the government has not taken steps to make the facility operational.

“What is preventing the government from operationalising it?” he asked.

The Ranking Member also raised concerns about the Sewua Hospital, insisting that the facility is ready to serve residents in the region.

“Ashanti Region does not have a regional hospital. Sewua is ready. I’m so disappointed,” he stated.

Dr Afriyie argued that the Ashanti Region deserves greater attention in healthcare infrastructure, particularly considering its population size and the limited number of major health facilities compared to Accra.

“The opportunities in Accra are not the same as in the Ashanti Region. Accra has several well-equipped hospitals that Ashanti Region does not have, yet the population is almost the same,” he said.

He further criticised the government’s decision to embark on new hospital projects in other regions while completed facilities in the Ashanti Region remain unused.

“The President is constructing new hospitals in Western North, Savannah and Oti regions, but completed hospitals in Ashanti Region are yet to be operationalised,” he noted.

The Bosomtwe MP said he was surprised that the government had not taken advantage of the opportunity to operationalise projects inherited from the previous administration.

“Wouldn’t it be nice that the NDC has built something and the NDC will operationalise it?” he quizzed.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, Dr Mark Kurt Nawaane, defended ongoing discussions on abandoned health projects and urged the Minority to continue drawing attention to them.

“We also did what the Minority is doing today when we were in opposition. They should continue weeding at the projects their government left in the bush,” he said.

Dr Afriyie maintained that operationalising completed facilities would be a more prudent use of resources and called on the government to carefully assess the costs and benefits before making decisions on new projects.

“Analyse your benefits to the cost and take your decision,” he added.

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The intervention, held on 28 and 29 May 2026, followed a three-day screening exercise that assessed 150 individuals. Out of the number screened, 107 patients were found eligible and subsequently underwent successful cataract surgery.

The initiative provided affordable access to quality eye care for beneficiaries who would otherwise have been unable to afford treatment. Patients also received medication, post-operative counselling, protective eyeglasses, and scheduled follow-up reviews to support recovery and ensure optimal outcomes.

Several beneficiaries shared emotional testimonies, including individuals who regained independence after years of impaired vision, as well as a Ghanaian teacher based in Nigeria who returned home specifically for the surgery after cataracts affected his ability to work effectively.

The outreach was delivered through a partnership between the Cure Blindness Project (CBP), an NGO, and the Eye Centre of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. A team of six ophthalmologists and five ophthalmology residents, led by Dr Andrew Elikem Akafo, conducted the procedures with support from nurses and other staff.

Management of the Eye Centre commended the teamwork behind the programme, describing it as a key step in efforts to reduce avoidable blindness in Ghana. They also expressed appreciation to Cure Blindness Project for its continued support in expanding access to eye care services.

The Centre noted that such outreaches form part of its 2026 agenda aimed at reducing avoidable blindness and strengthening access to affordable, patient-centred eye care across the country.

Obeng, who has built a growing following of about 460,000 on TikTok, creates content focused on love, communication, trust, and emotional wellbeing. His videos often address common relationship challenges, offering advice and relatable scenarios that resonate with a wide audience.

Through short, engaging clips, he highlights issues such as toxic relationships, misunderstandings between partners, and the importance of respect and honesty.

His content has attracted strong engagement, contributing to his rising influence on Ghana’s digital landscape.

Alvin Obeng says his goal is to use relationship-focused content to educate the youth and encourage them to stay focused and build meaningful lives.

He notes that TikTok allows creators to reach large audiences quickly, making it an effective platform for awareness creation and lifestyle education.

Obeng’s work reflects a growing trend of influencers using digital platforms not only for entertainment but also to spark conversations around social issues affecting everyday life.

He also has a strong presence on Facebook, where he has over 230,000 followers, and says he remains committed to educating, inspiring, and promoting healthy relationships among his audience.

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Presenting a statement on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, the Asokwa MP explained that obstetric fistula is often caused by prolonged obstructed labour without access to emergency delivery care.

She described it as a condition that results in a tear or an abnormal opening between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, leaving affected women incontinent.

Hon. Appiagyei noted that an estimated 12,000 women and girls in Ghana are currently living with the debilitating and dehumanising condition.

She appealed to the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service to expand the country’s fistula repair capacity from the current 200 cases annually to more than 2,000 cases each year.

The Deputy Minority Leader further urged stakeholders, communities and development partners to raise awareness about obstetric fistula, combat stigma, increase the number of repair surgeries and advocate for the dignity and rights of affected women.

She stressed that a collective effort is needed to end the condition and improve the lives of thousands of women and girls affected across the country.

According to her, strengthening access to quality maternal healthcare, expanding treatment services and enhancing public education are critical steps towards eliminating obstetric fistula and ensuring affected women can live with dignity and hope.

The announcement was made by the organisers of the 100 Legendary African Dignitaries Awards, which recognised Dr Dogbatsey as one of the distinguished honourees in the health sector.

Dr Dogbatsey is a Ghanaian medical doctor and entrepreneur known for his work in men’s healthcare through the Medi-Moses Clinic and Prostate Centre, which specialises in the treatment of prostate conditions. The facility operates five branches across Ghana.

He is reported to have treated thousands of patients with prostate-related conditions over three decades of medical practice.

A graduate of the School of Medical Sciences at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Dr Dogbatsey began his career at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where he rose to the rank of Senior Medical Officer.

He later obtained a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Pharmacognosy (Plant Medicine) from KNUST and lectured in herbal medicine. He is also regarded as one of the early Ghanaian medical doctors to specialise in plant-based medicine.

Between 2004 and 2008, he headed the Clinical Research Department at the Centre for Scientific Research in Plant Medicine in Mampong-Akuapem. He also trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine at Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

He later established the Medi-Moses Prostate Centre, focusing on the treatment of enlarged prostate and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). He also developed herbal formulations including Prostatcure Herbal Tea and Prostatcure-X Capsules.

Dr Dogbatsey is also credited with developing several herbal products targeting various health conditions, including infertility, erectile dysfunction, hypertension, diabetes, menstrual disorders, and other ailments.

The award organisers said the recognition celebrates his leadership, contributions to plant-based medicine, and impact on healthcare delivery in Africa.

He was formally honoured at a ceremony held in Kigali, Rwanda, on June 5, 2026.

Commenting on the recognition, he expressed gratitude to his family, staff, partners and clients for their support.

“This is a massive win for the Medi-Moses fraternity. I want to thank God Almighty, my wife, my children, all staff at Medi-Moses, especially our Marketing Manager Mr Nana Bonsu Afrane. I also thank my partners and cherished clients for their unflinching support throughout this journey,” he said.

The 100 Legendary African Dignitaries Awards, organised by The Business Executive, is a continental platform that recognises outstanding leaders across Africa for excellence and impact.

According to the Minister, 1,500 health workers have already been processed for deployment, with priority given to underserved communities where staffing shortages continue to affect healthcare delivery.

Speaking at the 2026 Annual Health Summit in Accra, Mr. Akandoh expressed concern over the persistent challenge of attracting health professionals to deprived areas.

He revealed that in 2024, only 12 medical doctors accepted postings to eight underserved regions, highlighting the difficulties in ensuring equitable distribution of healthcare personnel nationwide.

To address the challenge, the Minister said the government has intensified efforts to expand specialist training opportunities, including the decentralisation of postgraduate medical education to make advanced training more accessible across the country.

He further disclosed that nursing training programmes have been expanded, with 475 nurses currently undergoing training and plans underway to increase annual enrolment to about 1,000 nurses.

Mr. Akandoh stressed that the government’s strategy goes beyond increasing the number of health workers and focuses on developing specialised cadres of professionals capable of responding to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.

“The focus is not only on increasing numbers but also on training the right mix of professionals to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the population,” he noted.

The Health Minister also announced that the government has awarded 30 PhD scholarships to support capacity building within the health sector and strengthen research, policy development, and healthcare delivery.

He said the various interventions form part of broader efforts to build a resilient health system capable of delivering quality healthcare services to all Ghanaians, regardless of their location.

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According to the Centre, the latest milestone highlights its growing capacity to provide specialised renal care and advanced transplant services in Ghana.

UGMC said that since conducting its first kidney transplant in June 2024, it has successfully carried out 15 kidney transplant procedures, offering renewed hope to patients living with end-stage kidney disease.

The Centre described the achievement as a major step towards strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system and reducing the need for patients to travel abroad to access transplant services.

Management commended the dedication and professionalism of its multidisciplinary medical team, whose efforts have contributed to the success of the programme.

UGMC further reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality transplant services, enhancing specialised healthcare delivery, and improving patient outcomes across the country.

The latest successful procedures further position UGMC as one of Ghana’s leading centres for organ transplantation and specialised medical care.

UGMC is excited to announce the successful completion of 4 more kidney transplants. So far, 15 kidney transplants have been successfully conducted since the Centre conducted its first transplants 2 years ago in June 2024. #inspiringhope#promotinghealtg pic.twitter.com/rw19oQAG0X

— University of Ghana Medical Centre LTD (@ugmedicalcentre) June 9, 2026

In Ghana, particularly in Accra, Airbnb has become a dominant feature of the urban property landscape. Across neighbourhoods such as East Legon, Cantonments, Airport Residential Area, Labone, Dzorwulu, Ridge, Osu, and East Legon Hills, thousands of apartments and houses are now listed on short-term rental platforms. Investors increasingly purchase properties not for long-term tenants but for short-term guests, tourists, business travellers, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora.

The rise of Airbnb has generated significant economic benefits. It has expanded accommodation options, boosted tourism, created jobs, and provided new income streams for property owners. However, it has also sparked growing concerns about its impact on housing affordability and the availability of rental accommodation for residents.

As Accra grapples with rising rents, escalating property prices, and a persistent housing deficit, the debate surrounding Airbnb has become increasingly relevant. Is Airbnb contributing to economic growth and urban development, or is it worsening the housing challenges faced by ordinary Ghanaians? The answer lies somewhere in between.

The Accra Airbnb Boom

Accra has undergone tremendous growth over the last twenty years. Rapid urbanisation, population growth, increased foreign investment, and a thriving diaspora community have transformed the capital into one of West Africa’s most dynamic cities.

The success of initiatives such as the Year of Return and Beyond the Return significantly increased international attention on Ghana. Visitor arrivals rose, investment increased, and demand for accommodation surged. While hotels benefited from this growth, many visitors increasingly sought alternatives that offered more space, privacy, flexibility, and value for money. Airbnb emerged as the ideal solution.

Unlike traditional hotels, Airbnb properties allow visitors to experience local communities while enjoying home-like facilities. Families can rent entire apartments, business travellers can stay in residential neighbourhoods, and long-term visitors can secure accommodation that often proves more affordable than extended hotel stays.

This growing demand encouraged property owners to enter the market. What initially began with homeowners renting spare rooms quickly evolved into a sophisticated investment sector where entire apartment blocks are designed and operated exclusively as short-term rentals.

Today, many new developments in Accra are marketed specifically to investors seeking Airbnb income.

The Economic Benefits of Airbnb

Supporting Ghana’s Tourism Industry

Tourism remains one of Ghana’s most important economic sectors. The industry generates foreign exchange, creates employment, and supports thousands of small businesses.

Airbnb has expanded the country’s accommodation capacity without requiring government investment in hotels or tourism infrastructure. During major events, conferences, festivals, and the December holiday season, Airbnb properties provide accommodation that helps absorb increased visitor demand. Without these additional units, hotel prices would rise significantly, and some visitors might choose alternative destinations.

Moreover, Airbnb guests often spend money directly within local communities. Unlike tourists who remain within hotel compounds, Airbnb users typically patronise local restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, transportation providers, bars, and entertainment venues. This decentralisation of tourism spending spreads economic benefits across neighbourhoods and creates opportunities for small businesses.

Additional Income for Property Owners

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of Airbnb is the income it generates for property owners. Traditionally, landlords in Ghana rely on annual or multi-year rental agreements. Under this model, rental income remains relatively fixed regardless of fluctuations in market demand. Airbnb fundamentally changes this equation.

A property that might generate GH¢4,000 or GH¢5,000 per month under a traditional lease could potentially generate substantially higher revenues through short-term rentals, particularly during peak tourism periods. For many homeowners, Airbnb has become a valuable source of supplementary income. Some use these earnings to pay mortgages, maintain properties, finance education, or support retirement plans.

For diaspora investors, Airbnb offers an attractive opportunity to generate returns while retaining flexibility over their assets.

Job Creation and Entrepreneurship

The Airbnb economy extends far beyond property owners.

Each short-term rental property creates demand for numerous services, including: cleaning and housekeeping, property management, security services, laundry operations, landscaping, interior design, maintenance and repairs, photography and marketing and guest transportation. A growing number of young Ghanaians now operate businesses dedicated to managing Airbnb properties on behalf of owners. Others provide specialised services such as guest relations, digital marketing, or property maintenance.

This ecosystem has created employment opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures that did not exist a decade ago.

Encouraging Property Development

Airbnb has also stimulated investment in the construction sector. Developers are increasingly attracted to projects that can generate strong returns through short-term rentals. This has encouraged the construction of apartment complexes, serviced residences, and mixed-use developments throughout Accra. The resulting investment contributes to economic activity, supports construction jobs, and expands the city’s housing stock.

In a country where housing supply remains inadequate, any increase in residential construction can be viewed as a positive development.

Accra’s Housing Crunch

While Airbnb’s economic contributions are substantial, concerns about its impact on housing affordability cannot be ignored.

Ghana faces a significant housing deficit estimated at 1.8 million housing units. That is according to the Minister for Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei. This challenge is worsened by affordability constraints that limit access to decent housing for many low- and middle-income earners. The shortage is particularly severe in urban centres such as Accra, where population growth continues to outpace housing supply. At the same time, home ownership remains beyond the reach of many citizens due to high property prices, expensive mortgages, and stagnant wage growth.

Rental accommodation has traditionally provided an alternative for middle-income households. However, rents have risen sharply across the capital over the past decade.

The question therefore arises: What role is Airbnb playing in this crisis?

Reduction in Long-Term Rental Housing

The primary criticism of Airbnb is that it removes housing units from the long-term rental market. Every apartment converted into a short-term rental represents one less unit available for permanent residents. This effect becomes particularly significant in high-demand neighbourhoods where housing supply is already constrained. When investors discover that short-term rentals generate higher returns than traditional leases, economic incentives encourage them to prioritise Airbnb guests over local tenants. As more landlords make this transition, the supply of long-term rental housing decreases.

Basic economic principles suggest that when supply falls while demand remains strong, prices increase.

The result? Higher rent for residents.

Rising Rental Prices

The influence of Airbnb extends beyond properties actively listed on the platform. Landlords increasingly compare potential Airbnb revenues with traditional rental income when determining rental rates. If a two-bedroom apartment can generate the equivalent of GH¢12,000 per month through short-term stays, many landlords become reluctant to rent the same property for GH¢4,000 or GH¢5,000 per month under a conventional lease. This changes market expectations. Even landlords who do not operate Airbnb properties may increase rents because they know alternative opportunities exist.

The burden ultimately falls on ordinary residents, particularly young professionals: nurses, teachers, civil servants, as well as recent graduates attempting to establish themselves in the city.

Gentrification and Neighbourhood Transformation

Another concern is the gradual transformation of residential communities into tourist-oriented districts. Neighbourhoods once characterised by stable residential populations increasingly accommodate transient visitors. As investor demand grows, property values rise. Developers focus on luxury apartments targeted at investors rather than affordable housing targeted at local residents. This process, often described as gentrification, can gradually displace lower-income households from desirable locations.

While areas such as Cantonments and Airport Residential have historically catered to higher-income residents, similar trends are increasingly visible in emerging locations including East Legon Hills, Adjiringanor, and parts of Spintex.

The long-term consequence is a city that becomes increasingly segregated by income.

Housing as Shelter versus Housing as Investment

The Airbnb debate ultimately raises a broader philosophical question: Should housing primarily serve as a place for people to live, or as an investment vehicle designed to maximise financial returns?

Property owners understandably seek to maximise income from their investments. This is a rational economic decision. However, housing differs from many other assets because it fulfils a basic human need. When investment objectives dominate housing policy, affordability often suffers.

The challenge for governments is therefore to balance private property rights with broader social objectives.

Is Airbnb Really the Main Problem?

Although Airbnb contributes to affordability pressures, it would be inaccurate to portray it as the primary cause of Accra’s housing crisis. Several structural factors have a far greater influence on housing costs.

Rising Land Prices

Land prices in Accra have increased dramatically over the last decade. Areas once considered affordable, including Kwabenya, Pokuase, Oyibi, Amasaman, and East Legon Hills, have experienced substantial appreciation.

As land becomes more expensive, developers face higher project costs, which are ultimately passed on to buyers and tenants.

Construction Costs

The cost of building materials continues to rise due to inflation, exchange-rate fluctuations, import dependency, and global supply chain pressures. Cement, steel, aluminium, roofing materials, electrical components, and finishing products have all become significantly more expensive.

Developers have little choice but to incorporate these costs into selling prices and rents.

Limited Affordable Housing Development

Much of Accra’s recent housing development has targeted upper-middle-income and high-income buyers. Affordable housing production remains insufficient relative to demand. 

The result is a mismatch between the housing being built and the housing most residents can afford.

Urbanisation

Thousands of people migrate to Accra annually in search of employment, education, and economic opportunities. This constant influx increases housing demand and places pressure on existing infrastructure.

Even without Airbnb, the city would still face significant affordability challenges.

Lessons from International Cities

Cities around the world have struggled with similar issues. Barcelona, Amsterdam, New York, Paris, and London have all introduced regulations aimed at balancing tourism with housing affordability.

Common measures include:

• Mandatory registration of Airbnb properties.
• Tourist taxes on short-term stays.
• Restrictions on the number of rental days per year.
• Limits on multiple-property ownership.
• Enhanced reporting requirements.
• Zoning regulations for short-term rentals.

These policies do not eliminate Airbnb but seek to prevent excessive conversion of residential housing into tourist accommodation.

Ghana may eventually need to consider similar approaches as the sector continues to expand.

The Way Forward for Ghana

The solution is not to ban Airbnb. Doing so would undermine tourism, reduce investment, and eliminate valuable income opportunities. Instead, policymakers should focus on creating balance.

Potential measures include:

• Strengthening regulation and registration requirements.
• Improving data collection on short-term rental activity.
• Encouraging affordable housing development.
• Providing incentives for long-term rental accommodation.
• Expanding mortgage accessibility.
• Investing in transportation infrastructure to open new residential areas.
• Streamlining land administration processes.

Most importantly, government must address the underlying structural causes of housing unaffordability.

Airbnb alone did not create Accra’s housing crisis, and regulating Airbnb alone will not solve it.

The Bottom Line

Airbnb is neither a hero nor villain. It boosts tourism, income, and jobs, yet it also shrinks the supply of homes and pushes rents higher. Accra’s housing crisis has deep structural causes, but short-term rentals have added fuel to the fire.

The solution? Regulate without strangling. Protect residents without banning opportunity. Done right, tourism and affordable housing can coexist. Done wrong, Accra becomes a city for visitors, not for those who call it home.

The future will not be decided by whether Airbnb exists, but by whether Ghana manages growth wisely. A successful city must work for investors, visitors, and residents alike. Failure risks turning housing from a necessity into a luxury.

Board Chairman of the college, Addai Amankwa, is seeking urgent support to address critical infrastructure and welfare challenges affecting the institution.

According to him, inadequate security, an unstable power supply, insufficient water systems, and limited accommodation facilities continue to hamper the smooth operation of the college and the academic progress of students.

He noted that both the Ayinaso Campus and the main campus require enhanced security measures to protect students and staff.

“We need security urgently to help improve safety on both campuses. We also need a power plant. When the lights go off, students are left stranded and things become difficult for us. We need a power plant so that things go well,” he said.

The Board Chairman further explained that the growing student population has overstretched the institution’s water supply system, making it necessary to invest in sustainable water solutions.

He also expressed concern about the accommodation deficit, revealing that many students are forced to stay in rented houses outside campus, where they often face security threats.

“With the numbers we have now, the water supply is not enough. We need sustainable systems that can support our students. The hostels are congested, and many of our students stay in rented houses.

“They are attacked at any time. We appeal to the government, corporate institutions, alumni, and all stakeholders to support the college in addressing these challenges,” Mr. Amankwa appealed.

Addressing students during the event, the Principal of the college, Dr. Albert Opoku, urged students to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their academic pursuits.

“Fear God and uphold your moral values. Respect your tutors, staff, and colleagues. Study consistently and avoid procrastination. Choose your friends wisely and remember why you came here,” he stated.

The Principal also paid tribute to his predecessor for laying a strong foundation for the institution’s development, stressing that leadership is about continuity and building upon existing achievements.

But self-employment comes with a learning curve and most business owners will make a few mistakes along the way. Learning from these mistakes is important, and often some of these mistakes are ignoring administrative responsibilities until they become urgent.

Once you know what to look for, most of the common errors can be avoided. Requirements such as Making Tax Digital for self assessment, bookkeeping, invoicing and record keeping are all important parts of running a business.

These tasks may not be the most exciting aspect of being self-employed, but staying organised through the year will prevent a great deal of stress for you later on. Many business owners quickly discover that paperwork really disappears simply because it’s ignored.

Another common mistake is failing to separate your business and personal finances. When everything is running through the same account, it becomes a lot harder to track it.

Income, expenses and profitability will get mixed up and your morning coffees that you don’t spend on your business account will suddenly start looking like a business expense. Having a dedicated account often makes financial management fast, simpler and provides you a clearer picture of how the business is performing.

Image source: Pexels

Plenty of people go to self-employment thinking that they need to undercut the market to be relevant, but underpricing your services is another trap that many self-employed people will fall into.

This is particularly something that happens at the beginning. It’s natural to want to attract people with low prices, but consistently charging too little will make it difficult to cover the costs or any sustainable income. You are running a business, not a charity.

So, pricing should reflect the value of your skills, experience, time, and expenses. While competitive pricing is important, it shouldn’t come at the expense of profitability.

Another mistake you should avoid is trying to do it all yourself. Marketing, bookkeeping, customer service, admin, sales, and project delivery are all separate departments, and they can become very overwhelming when you’re wearing all of the hats of one.

Learning when to outsource or seek professional support will significantly improve your efficiency. Sometimes spending money to save time is one of the smart decisions that you could make.

Another frequent issue. Neglecting marketing when work becomes busy, it can feel logical to focus entirely on current projects. But with marketing stops completely, the future work will dry up.

Business owners maintain some level of marketing activity even during busy periods. Consistent visibility helps to create a steady flow of opportunities over time.

Speaking of time, poor time management also creates problems, and it’s a mistake that you could be making without clear routines. Many self-employed people find themselves constantly switching between tasks or working far longer hours than is necessary. You need to set your priorities and create a schedule to work with it.

Mistakes are a normal part of self-employment. Every business owner learns through experience and most challenges provide valuable lessons. The key is to recognize the pitfalls and not fall into them yourself.

Dr Leat said discussions during a meeting with Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene on Sunday, June 7, 2026, had progressed positively, with indications that the industrial action could soon be called off.

However, the mood shifted sharply when they saw a statement issued by the Ministry of Health defending the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo.

The Ministry described the industrial action as “unfortunate” and maintained that the CEO’s suspension was a necessary administrative decision taken in the interest of accountability, patient safety, and compliance with established health sector procedures.

Dr Leat, in an interview with Citi News, said the timing and content of the statement angered striking members and brought the constructive engagement to an abrupt end.

“In the course of our discussion to see the next step, we saw a release from the Minister for Health which threw off the discussion. In fact, people were angry and we had to end the meeting. As it stands, we are still on strike. We will still be taking steps to make sure we go back to our people, talk to them through more discussions and see how best we come out positively,” he said.

The development contradicts an earlier claim by Dr Amoakohene, who told the media that a positive resolution had been reached following his meeting with the leadership of doctors, nurses, and midwives.

The strike began on Saturday, June 6, after Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh suspended Dr Baidoo over a directive he had issued to temporarily halt new admissions at the Accident and Emergency Unit due to congestion.

The KATH chapter of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association later joined the action, intensifying the standoff and nearly bringing services to a halt at one of Ghana’s busiest referral hospitals.

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In a letter to staff issued by the Office of the Chief Executive on Monday, June 8, 2026, Dr. Baidoo expressed gratitude to the staff for what he described as their “show of solidarity” during the industrial action, which has disrupted services at the facility.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all staff of the hospital for your show of solidarity with me during this period. I am very grateful for your support,” the letter said.

However, he urged the workers to resume duty in the interest of patients and the nation.

“I need you all to return to duty in the supreme interest of Ghanaians and our valued patients, whilst I defer the outcome and directions to the supreme wisdom of the Hon. Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Board of KATH,” he stated.

Dr. Baidoo’s appeal comes amid disruptions to healthcare delivery at the hospital, with patients reportedly facing challenges in accessing medical services due to the industrial action.

The development follows a directive issued by the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, on June 5, 2026, instructing the Board of KATH to suspend Dr. Baidoo for two weeks with immediate effect.

The directive, contained in a letter dated June 5, stated that the CEO’s decision to announce a temporary suspension of emergency admissions at the hospital was inconsistent with instructions issued by John Dramani Mahama regarding the management of the situation at the facility.

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The situation has triggered widespread disruption at one of Ghana’s largest referral health facilities, with patients and relatives struggling to access medical care.

The protest follows the Ministry of Health’s decision to suspend the CEO for two weeks, a move the Ministry says is intended to allow for independent investigations into the circumstances surrounding the temporary closure of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Centre.

In a statement, the Ministry defended the suspension, stressing that it is an administrative measure aimed at ensuring accountability and clarity over the decision to temporarily shut down the 37-bed emergency facility.

The Ministry has also appealed to health professionals at the hospital to return to duty, warning that the disruption is affecting vulnerable patients who rely on the facility for critical care.

However, doctors and nurses at KATH are reportedly maintaining their position, leaving large numbers of patients stranded at the OPD.

JOY NEWS reports from the hospital described scenes of confusion as patients waited for hours without being attended to.

Meanwhile, the Health Workers Union of the Trades Union Congress (TUC-Ghana), KATH branch, has issued a statement backing the stance of the medical staff, further complicating efforts to restore normal operations.

The ongoing standoff comes amid growing tension over the suspension of the CEO, which followed the temporary shutdown of the Accident and Emergency Centre due to congestion and operational challenges.

Authorities are yet to indicate when full services are expected to resume, as pressure mounts on all sides to resolve the impasse and restore healthcare delivery at the facility.

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Speaking on Joy FM’s Home Affairs programme on Saturday, June 6, Dr Amoah challenged the long-held perception that fertility challenges are primarily linked to women.

According to him, advances in medical research have revealed that male fertility issues are more common than previously believed.

“Historically, we say that it’s women who give birth and we did a lot for women in resolving issues of fertility, only for us to realise that, in actual fact, men have more problems,” he said.

Dr Amoah noted that recent data indicates a rising prevalence of male infertility, with men increasingly accounting for a significant share of fertility-related challenges globally.

He further warned that scientific studies continue to show a steady decline in sperm quality around the world, describing the trend as a major public health concern.

“In fact, worldwide, the quality of sperm is decreasing,” he stated.

The fertility specialist attributed the trend to a combination of modern lifestyle and environmental factors, including increasing stress levels, urbanisation and unhealthy lifestyle choices.

According to him, these factors are having a growing impact on male reproductive health and are influencing fertility patterns in both developed and developing countries.

Dr Amoah stressed the need for greater awareness of male fertility issues and encouraged men to pay closer attention to their reproductive health as part of efforts to address infertility challenges.

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The concern follows a recent incident at the Tema Community 22 Polyclinic, where a nurse was allegedly assaulted by a relative of a patient after enforcing visiting-hour regulations. The nurse had reportedly asked the individual to leave the ward when visiting hours ended, leading to the attack.

Speaking at the Association’s 33rd Annual Delegates Congress held at Ejisu Krapa, the Ashanti-Brong Ahafo Zone (ASHBA) President, Abankwa Takyiawa, described the incident as deeply troubling.

“When our professionals are attacked for doing their job, it sends the wrong message to the next generation. Nursing is about saving lives, and we cannot allow fear to drive people away from this noble profession,” he said.

Mr Takyiawa called on hospital authorities, the Ghana Health Service and the Ministry of Health to implement stronger measures to protect nurses and midwives, including enhanced security at health facilities and stricter enforcement of policies against violence towards health workers.

He also urged the public to respect healthcare professionals and comply with facility regulations, stressing that nurses often work under intense pressure and deserve a safe working environment.

The congress, held under the theme, “Trained to Save, United to Serve: Leadership in Action for Trainee Nurses and Midwives,” brought together nursing trainees and key stakeholders to discuss issues affecting the profession.

Mr Takyiawa reiterated the Association’s commitment to advocating for the welfare and safety of nurses and midwives, warning that the country risks losing skilled healthcare professionals if such attacks continue.

He further appealed to the National Service Authority (NSA) to extend the deadline for graduate nurses and midwives to obtain their national service PIN codes.

According to him, although the registration exercise ran from May 25 to June 5, 2026, many prospective graduates were unable to access their PINs due to challenges associated with new verification measures.

He explained that the National Service Authority now requires applicants’ Ghana Card details to match information on their school records as part of efforts to sanitise the system.

Meanwhile, the Second Vice President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) and Patron of the Trainees Association, Mr Daniel Attah-Tuffour, urged newly graduated nurses and midwives to explore entrepreneurial and skills-based opportunities after completing their national service.

He cautioned graduates against relying solely on government employment, noting that the public sector job market is saturated.

“The government employment net is choked, and it could take newly qualified nurses and midwives between three and four years to secure employment within the public sector,” he said.

Mr Attah-Tuffour explained that nurses and midwives possess valuable skills that can be applied beyond traditional hospital settings, including home healthcare, wellness services, health education and private practice.

He encouraged graduates to invest in additional skills training, establish small-scale enterprises and create opportunities for themselves while awaiting formal employment.

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This was disclosed when the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, toured the busy Aflao and Elubo border posts to assess Ghana’s response strategy following an outbreak of the disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo in mid-May.

Dr Ayensu-Danquah, who is a clinician and surgeon, pledged swift government action to address identified gaps and strengthen response mechanisms, adding that President John Dramani Mahama had directed the Ministry of Health to ensure the country remains fully prepared for any potential outbreak.

“As a government, it is our duty to ensure that our country and the citizens are safe, and that is what we are doing by assessing our response mechanism to this deadly disease,” she said.

Congo Outbreak

The Deputy Minister’s tour forms part of broader efforts by government to reinforce disease surveillance and response capacity amid rising regional health risks, following Ebola cases reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo and other central African countries.

The World Health Organization (WHO), in May, declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, underscoring the urgency of Ghana’s preparedness measures to protect citizens and prevent cross-border transmission.

Screening And Isolation Measures

At the Aflao and Elubo border crossings, the Deputy Minister engaged security agencies, port health officials and local authorities, and reviewed screening procedures, isolation facilities and coordination mechanisms designed to detect and contain any suspected cases.

Officials briefed her that screening, surveillance and isolation protocols were already in place, indicating Ghana’s preparedness to respond to potential cases.

However, health and local authorities also highlighted challenges, including inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), limited staffing, and deteriorating infrastructure established during the COVID-19 response period.

Dr Ayensu-Danquah assured that government is moving swiftly to address these gaps, with plans to provide modern, fully equipped border health facilities and increase investment in personnel, logistics and essential supplies to strengthen frontline response systems.

“The government remains committed to ensuring robust surveillance, screening and response mechanisms are in place to protect the health and safety of Ghanaians,” she said during inspections of screening points, isolation centres and municipal health facilities.

Health Security Agenda

The tour forms part of a broader government agenda to strengthen health security, particularly at points of entry where cross-border movement increases the risk of disease importation.

Government has prioritised investments in primary healthcare, disease surveillance and frontline infrastructure, alongside ongoing reforms aimed at improving service delivery and emergency preparedness.

Beyond infrastructure assessment, the visit also sought to improve coordination among key agencies including the Ghana Immigration Service, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and regional health directorates, while identifying resource and training needs to enhance emergency response capacity.

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The ​confirmed ​cases ‌include 91 deaths, ​government ​data showed.

The World Health Organization and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention announced a $518 million emergency response plan on Friday aimed at containing the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. The plan, which runs through November, covers emergency coordination, surveillance, testing, infection prevention, clinical care and community outreach.

It came as the DRC’s Ministry of Health reported 71 new confirmed cases in a single 24-hour stretch this week, bringing the country’s confirmed total to at least 452 cases and 82 deaths. Uganda confirmed three additional cases on Friday, putting its total at 19 confirmed cases and two deaths.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said earlier this week that health officials were “catching up” with the virus, even as he acknowledged it had a “big head start.” Tedros also pushed back against blanket travel bans put in place by some countries, warning that they could discourage transparency and disrupt the response.

Frustrations also remain over U.S. plans to open a controversial Ebola isolation facility in Kenya. Proposals to establish a 50-bed quarantine facility for U.S. citizens affected by the outbreak in DRC have provoked a public backlash in Kenya, although the country’s president, William Ruto, said the plan was safe. Two people were reportedly killed last week amid a protest close to the Laikipia Air Base, where the facility is due to be placed.

Kenya’s high court temporarily blocked the quarantine facility, citing public health concerns. Some U.S. health experts have also criticized the plan after the Trump administration said it was determined to ensure the virus did not cross U.S. borders.

The figure was contained in a regional sanitation situation report and was based on health screenings conducted among food handlers in 2025 and 2026.

The report was presented by Agambire Alhassan Inusah, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at the Upper West Regional Environmental Health and Sanitation Department (EHSD), during the second-quarter meeting of the Upper West Regional Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee on Sanitation (RICCS) in Wa.

According to the report, 538 food handlers were screened in 2025, while 1,208 underwent screening between January and May 2026.

Mr Inusah disclosed that the affected individuals had been referred to health facilities for treatment.

He added that the department had intensified food safety and sanitation interventions across the region, including inspections of food and beverage vendors as well as the prosecution of sanitation offenders.

The report indicated that 3,425 premises were inspected in 2025, while 4,821 premises were inspected between January and May 2026.

Similarly, inspections of food and drink establishments increased from 742 in 2025 to 891 within the first five months of 2026.

On meat safety, Mr Inusah said 3,928 animals slaughtered during the review period were inspected by the department in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Veterinary Services Department.

Out of the total, 3,873 carcasses were certified fit for human consumption, while four were totally condemned and 51 partially condemned due to health concerns.

Providing updates on the Open Defecation Free (ODF) campaign, Mr Inusah said three communities attained ODF status in 2025, comprising two in the Lambussie District and one in the Sissala West District.

He added that 15 more communities achieved ODF status between January and May 2026, including nine in the Nandom District and six in the Lambussie District.

On sanitation law enforcement, he said the Wa Municipal Assembly prosecuted four sanitation-related cases during the review period and imposed fines on offenders as part of efforts to improve environmental sanitation.

Despite the gains made, Mr Inusah noted that inadequate staffing remained a major challenge affecting effective service delivery across the region.

Reacting to the report, the Upper West Regional Director of the EHSD, Madam Freda Naatu, said it had in some cases been difficult to prevent affected individuals from continuing to handle food despite being declared medically unfit.

She announced plans to introduce sanitation league tables for schools and zonal councils to assess performance, reward high-performing institutions and “name and shame” underperforming ones as part of efforts to improve sanitation standards in the region.

In a statement, the Ministry explained that the suspension was not intended as punishment but rather an administrative measure to ensure accountability and facilitate an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the announced closure of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Centre.

According to the Ministry, the decision followed Dr. Baidoo’s public announcement of the cessation of admissions at the emergency unit without prior approval from the hospital’s Governing Board or the Ministry.

The Ministry maintained that the action was inconsistent with a directive issued by President John Dramani Mahama, which requires all public health facilities to continue providing emergency healthcare services and prohibits them from turning away patients under any circumstances.

Officials clarified that the suspension relates solely to Dr. Baidoo’s role as Chief Executive Officer and does not affect his position as a medical practitioner at the hospital.

The statement further stressed that the matter is unrelated to internal arrangements between the hospital and the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, contrary to claims circulating in the public domain.

The Ministry expressed concern that the closure of a major emergency facility at one of Ghana’s leading referral hospitals could have serious implications for patient care and therefore required strict adherence to established administrative procedures.

While acknowledging the operational challenges facing the Accident and Emergency Centre, the Ministry noted that decisions with national implications for healthcare delivery must be properly coordinated with the relevant authorities.

The Ministry also appealed to members of the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association and the Nurses Chapter to reconsider their industrial action and return to work while discussions continue.

It emphasised that dialogue remains the most appropriate avenue for resolving grievances and ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for the public.

Meanwhile, the Ministry disclosed that the Ghana Health Service has been directed to implement immediate measures to guarantee the continued provision of emergency healthcare services during the impasse.

The statement highlighted several ongoing interventions aimed at improving healthcare delivery across the country, including hospital retooling, the introduction of a National Bed Management System, efforts to operationalise selected Agenda 111 projects, and the establishment of cardiac catheterisation laboratories at KATH, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and Tamale Teaching Hospital.

The Ministry further revealed that work on the Sewua Hospital project is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed before the end of 2026.

Reaffirming its commitment to both patients and health workers, the Ministry said it remains focused on ensuring a safe working environment while safeguarding access to quality healthcare services nationwide.

In a statement issued on Sunday, June 7, 2026, and signed by the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Health Committee, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, the Minority said the suspension would neither create additional beds nor fix a broken referral system.

The caucus argued that the pressure on KATH is not primarily a leadership problem but the result of years of delayed and abandoned health infrastructure projects.

“The persistent ‘No Bed Syndrome’ is not fundamentally a leadership problem at KATH. It is a capacity problem. It is an infrastructure problem. It is a referral system problem. It is a health workforce and resource allocation problem,” the statement read.

The statement pointed out that the previous administration had made significant investments to ease the burden on KATH, including operationalising the 500-bed Afari Military Hospital and substantially completing the 250-bed Ashanti Regional Hospital at Sewua.

They questioned why the government had not prioritised the full operationalisation of these facilities instead of suspending a hospital CEO.

The statement also drew particular attention to two 100-bed hospitals commissioned in 2024 with accident and emergency services, surgical theatres, maternity wards, and diagnostic facilities to absorb demand from KATH, the Trede District Hospital and the Kokoben-Oforikrom District Hospital. Unfortunately, both facilities remain largely non-operational.

“It is therefore difficult to understand how Government can justify suspending the CEO of KATH for challenges arising from excess demand when two fully completed 100-bed hospitals, specifically built to absorb part of that demand, remain unable to provide the services for which they were constructed,” the statement said.

The Minority further issued five specific demands to government:

1. The immediate revocation of the KATH CEO’s suspension pending the outcome of any independent investigation.
2. The immediate operationalisation of all completed health facilities intended to ease pressure on KATH, particularly the 300-bed Ashanti Regional Hospital at Sewua and the 100-bed Agenda 111 hospitals at Trede and Kokoben-Oforikrom.
3. Concrete action on concerns raised by the Ghana Medical Association regarding structural causes of the no-bed crisis, including workforce shortages and referral bottlenecks.
4. A shift away from what the Minority described as a “Rambo-style” approach to leadership in the health sector, urging the Health Minister to adopt a more consultative and professional stance.
5. Accelerated completion of all stalled hospital projects across the country.

Call off strike -NLC orders KATH doctors

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The order comes from the National Labour Commission (NLC), which described the industrial action as unlawful and not in compliance with the provisions of Ghana’s labour laws.

The NLC, in a statement issued on Saturday, June 6, 2026, said the decision to embark on the strike was communicated through a letter dated June 5, 2026, addressed to the Chairman of the Board of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), with copies sent to key government officials including the Chief of Staff and the Minister of Health.

“According to the notice, KADA is displeased with some operational and administrative decisions/actions and for these the Association has declared the industrial action.”

The Commission, however, noted that the notice failed to comply with the legal procedures governing the declaration of industrial action in Ghana.

“KADA is advised that the notice was improperly served because it was not compliant with the relevant provisions of the Labour Law. Consequently, the Commission in exercise of its powers under section 139(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) directs KADA to call off the strike immediately as the action contravenes sections 162 and 163 of Act 651,” the NLC ordered.

The statement further summoned parties involved to appear before the Commission on Wednesday, 10th June, 2026 at 2pm  for a hearing of the issues in dispute

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The position was announced in a statement issued on Saturday, June 6, 2026, following an emergency meeting of the Association’s National Executive Council (NEC).

According to the GMA, it fully endorses the decision by the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) to withdraw services until the suspension of the CEO is reversed.

The Association also criticised the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, accusing him of making comments that could incite public sentiment against health workers.

Defending the actions of KATH management that led to the suspension, the GMA argued that the temporary halt in new emergency admissions and the redirection of patients to nearby health facilities were appropriate measures taken in the interest of patient safety.

The Association maintained that the decision was consistent with best practices in healthcare administration and emergency management.

According to the statement, the measures did not amount to abandoning patients or disregarding directives from the President.

“Rather, the actions redirected patients and ensured they received safe and timely care at nearby hospitals with support from specialists from KATH,” the Association stated.

The GMA noted that the coordinated intervention, involving the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, the Regional Coordinating Council, healthcare facilities, and health workers, helped decongest the Accident and Emergency Centre and enabled the resumption of new admissions within 24 hours.

The Association therefore concluded that the initial query issued to the CEO and the subsequent suspension directive were unwarranted.

“Council, therefore, is of the considered view that the initial query issued and subsequent directive for suspension were without basis and ought not to have been occasioned,” the statement said.

The GMA is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the directive to suspend the CEO and his reinstatement within three working days.

It further reiterated its support for KADA’s industrial action, stating that the strike will continue until the suspension is reversed and concrete steps are taken to improve emergency healthcare capacity in the Kumasi enclave.

The action was announced by the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) following an emergency meeting on June 5, 2026, to review recent developments at the hospital, including congestion at the Emergency Department and the suspension of the CEO.

In a statement to the Chairman of the KATH Board, the association expressed disappointment that measures taken by management to handle overwhelming patient numbers and ensure safe care had resulted in disciplinary action against the hospital’s leadership.

According to the doctors, the temporary suspension of new emergency admissions and the diversion of patients to other facilities were necessary steps to prevent avoidable deaths amid severe pressure on the hospital’s resources.

KADA noted that KATH, which serves as a major referral centre for Ghana’s middle and northern regions, continues to face longstanding challenges including inadequate infrastructure and rising patient numbers, describing the current crisis as a reflection of broader systemic issues in the health sector.

The association argued that addressing these challenges requires urgent investment and policy intervention rather than sanctions against administrators managing difficult conditions.

Following deliberations, members unanimously condemned the CEO’s suspension and resolved to withdraw services effective 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

The doctors say the industrial action will remain in force until their key demands are met, including a review and reversal of the CEO’s suspension.

They are also calling on the KATH Board to establish clear protocols for handling situations where emergency capacity is exceeded.

Additionally, KADA is urging the Ministry of Health to provide clear timelines for the operationalisation of the Sewua Hospital and Afari Military Hospital, as well as a roadmap for upgrading KATH and other health facilities in the Ashanti Region to ease pressure on the referral centre.

The directive, contained in a letter dated June 5, 2026, cites the CEO’s announcement on the suspension of admissions of emergency cases at the facility as the reason for the disciplinary action.

According to the Minister, the CEO acted contrary to directives issued by President John Mahama when he announced the suspension of emergency admissions at the hospital on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.

“Pursuant to Section 36 (1) of the Ghana Health Service and Teaching Hospitals Act, 1996 (Act 526), I am respectfully directing the Board to suspend the Chief Executive Officer for a period of two (2) weeks with immediate effect, for causing to be announced the suspension of admissions of emergency cases to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital on Wednesday, June 3, 2026,” the letter stated.

The Health Minister further revealed that a meeting attended by the Chief Director, Technical Advisor and Legal Advisor of the Ministry had determined that the CEO’s actions were inconsistent with the President’s directives.

In addition to the suspension, Mr Akandoh has instructed the Board to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding both the announcement and a media interview granted by the Head of Public Affairs Unit of KATH to Channel One News.

According to the Minister, the Public Affairs Unit also acted contrary to presidential directives by commenting publicly on the suspension of admissions.

“I am also respectfully requesting you to undertake a thorough investigation to establish on what authority he made those comments on Channel One Newsroom. Further whether it was a management decision for him to grant the said interview. Where necessary the appropriate sanctions should be applied,” the Minister directed.

The Board has been asked to submit a report on its findings within two weeks.

The development follows public concern over the temporary suspension of emergency admissions at the Kumasi-based referral hospital amid challenges affecting healthcare delivery at the facility.

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Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Bolgatanga, Abel Ndego, the Acting Regional Head of the FDA, explained that cigarettes must only be sold in sealed packs and not as individual sticks. 

“Per the provisions of the law, it is illegal to sell single sticks of cigarettes to any person,” he said. 

Mr. Ndego explained that the requirement was intended to ensure that consumers were exposed to the mandatory health warnings displayed on cigarette packaging. 

“A single stick does not provide enough space for us to display legible warning signs. Cigarettes are therefore required to be sold in packs, which carry the approved health warnings,” he noted. 

According to him, all registered cigarette brands were required to display pictorial health warnings on their packaging. 

“We have realised that written inscriptions alone do not effectively communicate the dangers of tobacco use. When people see actual images of damaged lungs, rotten teeth, cancerous lips, and other tobacco-related health conditions, they are better able to appreciate the risks associated with smoking,” he said. 

Mr. Ndego urged retailers and shop owners to comply with the law, emphasising that the sale of single cigarette sticks remained prohibited. 

He also expressed concern about the influx of unregistered tobacco products into the region through porous borders. 

“Because of the porosity of our borders, some recalcitrant individuals take advantage of the situation to smuggle unregistered tobacco products into the region,” he stated. 

The acting regional head indicated that the FDA was working closely with security agencies to curb the practice and prevent the circulation of unregistered tobacco products. 

He added that the Authority’s enforcement teams regularly patrol commercial centres and conduct inspections to ensure that unregistered tobacco products do not find their way onto the market. 

Mr. Ndego noted that routine inspections and stakeholder engagements had contributed to a high level of compliance with tobacco regulations in the region and called for continued public support to help achieve a tobacco-free society. 

“Through sustained enforcement and regulatory measures, we have achieved a significant level of compliance. I can confidently say that the region is recording very good compliance with tobacco control regulations,” he said. 

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The decision follows an assessment of border health operations at Aflao by Deputy Minister for Health, Grace Ayensu-Danquah, who reviewed existing preparedness measures and identified challenges related to infrastructure, logistics, and personnel capacity.

According to the Ministry of Health, the planned intervention will involve increased investment in border health infrastructure, improved logistics systems, the deployment of additional health personnel, and a reliable supply of essential medical and protective equipment.

In a Facebook post, the Ministry indicated that the initiative is aimed at enhancing disease surveillance, screening, and emergency response mechanisms at the country’s major entry points.

The upgraded facilities are expected to improve Ghana’s ability to detect and contain highly infectious diseases such as Ebola at an early stage before they spread within communities.

Health authorities believe the move will significantly strengthen the country’s frontline defence against public health emergencies and improve overall border health security.

Particular attention is expected to be given to Aflao, one of the country’s busiest border posts and a major transit corridor between Ghana and its neighbouring countries.

Officials say the enhanced border health system will enable faster responses to potential disease outbreaks while improving coordination among health workers and other agencies responsible for managing cross-border movements.

The government maintains that strengthening border health services remains a critical component of national efforts to safeguard public health and prevent the importation of infectious diseases into the country.

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Dr Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), said the country had strengthened surveillance, laboratory testing, case management, infection prevention and control systems to ensure the early detection and rapid containment of any imported case.

“We already had a preparedness plan from previous outbreaks and have updated it to reflect the current situation,” he told the Ghana News Agency.

He said new case definitions had been developed and distributed to health facilities across the country to support the identification, reporting and management of suspected Ebola cases.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that as of June 3, 2026, the DRC had recorded 344 confirmed Ebola cases and 60 deaths across 24 health zones in its Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

The organisation said the number of suspected cases had reduced to 116 from more than 1,000 reported the previous week as health authorities worked through a backlog of investigations, confirming or ruling out cases.

In Uganda, authorities have recorded 15 confirmed cases and one death. Among the confirmed cases is a Congolese resident who travelled through the United Arab Emirates before entering Uganda.

Dr Asiedu-Bekoe said Ghana currently has three laboratories with the capacity to confirm Ebola infections: the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory in Accra, the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research (KCCR).

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“Any clinician who suspects a case can send samples to any of these laboratories for confirmation,” he said.

The Director for Public Health said enhanced surveillance measures had been activated at the country’s points of entry, including the Accra International Airport, where travellers arriving from high-risk countries would undergo additional health screening, including temperature checks and health assessments.

The GHS has also engaged key stakeholders operating at airports and border crossings to strengthen infection prevention measures, including sanitation, hand hygiene facilities and environmental cleaning.

On treatment readiness, Dr Asiedu-Bekoe said facilities such as the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre (GIDC), the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and other designated treatment centres across the regions were prepared to manage suspected and confirmed Ebola cases if necessary.

He noted that any suspected case identified at a point of entry would be isolated immediately and safely transferred to a designated treatment facility for further assessment and care.

He said the GHS has also intensified public education and risk communication efforts, while the Ministry of Health has issued advisories to keep the public informed about developments and preventive measures.

Dr Aseidu-Bekoe said Ghana has not recorded any Ebola case and stressed the need for continued vigilance, citing increasing international travel and the risk of cross-border transmission.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director – General of WHO, speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, expressed concern about blanket travel restrictions imposed by some countries in response to the outbreak, saying such measures were disrupting supply chains and hampering response efforts.

He said WHO recommended exit screening at airports, ports and border crossings to prevent the international spread of cases and contacts.

“We ask countries that have imposed blanket travel restrictions to lift them,” he said.

Dr Tedros added that WHO and its partners were working to accelerate clinical trials as the DRC battles the outbreak without approved vaccines or therapeutics specifically targeted at the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.

On May 17, 2026, the WHO Director-General declared the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the DRC and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations.

The WHO says there are currently no approved vaccines or specific therapeutics for the Bundibugyo variant.

Bundibugyo virus disease is a severe and often fatal form of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus, one of the species within the Orthoebolavirus group. It is a zoonotic disease, with fruit bats believed to be its natural reservoir.

Human infection occurs through close contact with infected wildlife, including bats and non-human primates, and subsequently spreads from person to person through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, organs or contaminated materials of infected individuals.

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In a statement issued on June 4, 2026, the Association said its assessment of the situation at KATH does not support claims that the hospital turned away emergency patients during the recent congestion crisis.

According to the GMA, engagements with KATH management, discussions with staff of the Accident and Emergency Centre, and a review of explanations provided by the hospital’s Medical Director indicate that the temporary measures introduced were intended to facilitate the redistribution of patients to peripheral health facilities while management addressed severe capacity constraints.

The Association noted that patient numbers at the facility had exceeded its designed capacity, necessitating urgent operational interventions to ensure patient safety and maintain quality care for critically ill patients already receiving treatment.

It further stated that a review of minutes from a meeting held by the Regional Health Directorate on June 2 suggested there had been deliberate and coordinated efforts to address the congestion challenges at the hospital.

The GMA expressed satisfaction that the situation at the Accident and Emergency Centre has improved significantly since the issue became public.

However, it stressed that the incident has exposed broader systemic challenges facing emergency healthcare delivery in Ghana.

The Association is therefore calling for increased investment in emergency medicine infrastructure, expansion of emergency care facilities, stronger referral systems, and improved resourcing of regional and district hospitals to enable them to manage emergency cases closer to patients’ communities effectively.

“Every Ghanaian, regardless of where they live, should have timely access to quality emergency medical care,” the statement said.

It added that strengthening emergency care capacity nationwide would reduce pressure on major referral hospitals and improve patient outcomes.

The GMA also commended doctors, nurses, emergency medicine specialists and other healthcare professionals at KATH and across the Ashanti Region for their efforts in maintaining patient care under difficult circumstances.

At the same time, the Association expressed concern about what it described as the negative picture created by a query letter from the Ministry of Health to the Chief Executive Officer of KATH.

According to the GMA, the contents of the letter appeared to suggest wrongdoing by the hospital’s management, a portrayal the Association believes may not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding the congestion situation.

The Association expressed hope that ongoing engagements between the Chief Executive Officer of KATH and the Minister for Health would help strengthen emergency healthcare delivery and address the challenges highlighted by the incident.

It assured the public that it would continue monitoring developments and remains committed to supporting policies and interventions aimed at improving healthcare delivery and patient safety across the country.

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Somewhere in Ghana today, a baby is being born with clubfoot. Chances are, her family has never heard of it.

Her feet will be twisted inward and downward, a condition as old as human history, yet one that most Ghanaians still cannot name. In many homes, the grandmother will say the child will grow out of it. In others, a neighbour will suggest a traditional remedy. In some, the family will quietly pull the curtains and grieve in silence, afraid of what the community will say. And in each of those homes, a clock begins ticking, because the longer treatment waits, the harder it becomes.

This is not a rare story. Every single year, approximately 1,000 babies are born with clubfoot in Ghana. That is roughly three children every day, three families plunged into confusion, fear, and a search for answers that far too many never find in time.

Yet here is a truth that must be heard in every community across Ghana, spoken in every language, broadcast on every radio station, and shared in every WhatsApp group: clubfoot is treatable. The treatment works. And for children under five, it is completely free.

BY THE NUMBERS

9,000+ children treated since 2008· 1,000 new cases born every year· GH₵0 cost of treatment under age 5

The Mothers Who Travel for Miles, and the Children Who Arrive Too Late

Across Ghana’s clubfoot clinics, the same scenes repeat themselves week after week. A mother arrives clutching a child who is already two, or three, or four years old, a child who has spent the first precious years of their life without treatment, because nobody told her it existed.

She did not fail her child. She simply did not know.

Some of these mothers heard about the clinic from a friend at church. Others saw a post on Facebook. A few heard something on the radio and wrote down a number. Many more spent months moving from one health facility to another, being sent away without a referral, without a name, without a direction to go.

“We meet caregivers who have spent months searching for answers. We meet children who arrive years after birth because no one identified the condition early enough. Many parents tell us they were never referred. Others say they were unaware that clubfoot could be treated at all.”

These are not stories of negligence. They are stories of families who have not yet been reached with timely information and access to treatment, and of a health system that is still working to ensure that every child born with clubfoot receives the care they need to walk, thrive, and reach their full potential.

Because when a child with clubfoot does not receive treatment early, the consequences are not temporary. They are lifelong. The child struggles to walk. School becomes difficult, then impossible. Employment narrows. Social participation shrinks. A condition that could have been corrected in weeks becomes a disability that defines an entire lifetime.

18 Years of Quiet Miracles

Since 2008, the Ghana Clubfoot Program, implemented by the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) in partnership with Hope Walks, has been working to prevent exactly that kind of tragedy.

The results are extraordinary. Over 18 years, more than 9,000 children have been treated and transformed. Nine thousand children who might otherwise have grown up with untreated disabilities now run, jump, dance, attend school, and plan futures without limits.

The method used is the internationally recognised Ponseti technique, a series of gentle casts that gradually reshape the foot, followed by a brace to hold the correction and prevent relapse. It is non-surgical in most cases. It is safe. And when started early, its success rate is remarkable.

“Behind every number is a story. A child who can now run with friends. A student who can walk to school. A parent whose fears have been replaced with hope. A family whose future has been transformed.” 

The Stigma that Steals Years from Children

One of the cruelest aspects of clubfoot in Ghana is not the condition itself, but the misconceptions that surround it. In some communities, children born with clubfoot are viewed as cursed, and their is wrongly interpreted as punishment for a parent’s wrongdoing. Fear of stigma and judgment has led some families to hide their children, while mothers often bear the burden of blame. None of this is true. None of it is deserved.

Clubfoot is a medical condition. It develops before birth, for reasons that are not fully understood, and has nothing to do with what a parent did or did not do. It is not a curse. It is not a sin. It is not a punishment. It is a treatable condition that requires timely care, understanding, and a community willing to replace stigma with support.

Every week of stigma and silence is a week of treatment lost. Every month of delay makes the correction harder. The children who pay the highest price for our collective ignorance are the ones who had no say in being born at all.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CLUBFOOT

• Clubfoot is present at birth; one or both feet are turned inward and downward
• It is one of the most common congenital conditions, affecting roughly 1 in 1,000 births
• If untreated, it causes lifelong difficulty with walking, education, and employment
• Treatment is most effective when started early one week after birth
• The Ponseti Method involves gentle casts over several weeks, minor surgical procedure.
• Treatment is FREE for children under five at CHAG–Hope Walks partner clinics
• Over 9,000 Ghanaian children have already been successfully treated

A Call That Must Be Answered

This World Clubfoot Day, the Ghana Clubfoot Program is not asking for sympathy. It is calling for action; specific, practical, and urgent.

We call on midwives, nurses, doctors, community health workers, and all frontline healthcare professionals to examine every newborn’s feet and make referrals without hesitation. A few moments of observation at birth can save a child from a lifetime of disability.

We call on parents and caregivers who suspect something may be wrong with their child’s feet to seek medical attention immediately; not to wait, not to rely solely on traditional remedies, and not to suffer in silence. When it comes to clubfoot, early treatment changes everything.

We call on pastors, imams, chiefs, traditional leaders, and community influencers to speak openly about clubfoot. Help families understand that it is treatable, that it is not a curse, and that free treatment is available.

And we call on the media to continue using its powerful voice to educate, inform, and inspire action. Every story shared, every interview aired, and every awareness message broadcast has the potential to connect a child to life-changing treatment.

The solution exists. The treatment works. The opportunity is before us.

The responsibility now belongs to all of us.More than 9,000 have already made it. The question is not whether the treatment works. The question is whether we will ensure that the next 1,000 babies born this year are not left behind simply because their families never found out that help was free.

Management says the congestion situation at the centre has improved significantly, allowing emergency services to return to normal operations.

A coordinated intervention involving the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate and leadership of health facilities across the region was implemented to redistribute cases and ease pressure on the hospital.

Under the arrangement, patients were redirected to other health facilities within the region to ensure uninterrupted emergency care and prevent overloading of the centre.

The development comes after a brief disruption that raised concerns about patient flow and emergency response capacity at the hospital.

The situation has since been brought under control with collaboration from partner facilities and health authorities in the region.

The easing of congestion has restored full admission services at the Accident and Emergency Centre, allowing the facility to continue providing emergency healthcare services to patients.

Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene noted that the incident underscores the importance of ongoing government efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure and strengthen referral systems in the Ashanti Region.

He referenced key ongoing projects, including the resumption of work on the KNUST Medical Centre with over GHS 400 million in GETFund support, as well as the construction of a Cath Lab facility at KATH aimed at improving specialised care.

He also mentioned planned updates on the Sewua Regional Hospital, Afari Military Hospital, and other key health infrastructure projects, which are expected to further reduce pressure on major health facilities.

Presenting the cheque to the management of the hospital, Nana Osei Kofi Abiri noted that the continued use of paper folders for patient records in this digital age is outdated and poses numerous challenges for both healthcare workers and patients.

According to him, the donation will be used to procure computers and other necessary equipment to facilitate the implementation of the Electronic Medical Records system, which has become a standard practice in many health facilities across the country.

He stressed that government alone cannot address all the challenges confronting healthcare institutions and assured the hospital of the traditional council’s continuous support to enhance quality healthcare services for residents of the Asutifi North District and beyond.

The Paramount Chief further stated that the traditional council would closely monitor the utilisation of the funds to ensure they are used for their intended purpose.

“We will continue to support the hospital whenever the need arises, but we also want to ensure that this money is used solely for the implementation of the electronic medical records system to improve healthcare delivery,” he said.

Receiving the cheque on behalf of the hospital, the Medical Superintendent, Dr. Obed Benyin-Mensah, expressed appreciation to Nana Osei Kofi Abiri and the Kenyasi No. 1 Traditional Council for the generous support.

Speaking to Adom News, Dr. Benyin-Mensah said the transition from paper-based records to an electronic system would significantly improve efficiency and protect patient confidentiality.

He explained that the use of paper folders often leads to delays in retrieving patient information, misplaced records, and breaches of privacy, among other challenges.

According to him, the introduction of the Electronic Medical Records system will streamline operations, improve record management, and ultimately enhance the quality of healthcare services provided at the facility.

Dr. Benyin-Mensah described the donation as timely and laudable, adding that it would go a long way in modernising healthcare delivery at the hospital.

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A statement released by the hospital’s Public Affairs unit noted that the Centre was full and overflowing with waiting patients, compelling the hospital not to admit new emergency cases for the next 24 hours.

Head of Public Affairs Unit at KATH, Kwame Frimpong, emphasized that the A&E Centre, which was originally designed as a 37-bed facility, currently has 61 patients on admission at its Orange, Yellow and Red critical wards with 34 others waiting in queue to be tended to.

He indicated that in order not to unduly endanger the lives of critically ill-patients, the hospital’s management has deemed it appropriate to temporarily curtail further admissions.

This would ensure that the backlog of cases would be attended to in the next 24 hours before new ones could be admitted.

The hospital has, consequently, urged the public to make use of peripheral hospitals in the region until the situation at its A&E Centre improves in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the management of the hospital is engaging the leadership of the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate to lay proactive measures for the satellite hospitals in the region to complement healthcare delivery before the situation improves.

The hospital is, however, assuring that all its neonatal, paediatric and obstetric emergency facilities have not been affected by the current temporary suspension of new cases.

“The current situation is being periodically reviewed as our emergency physician specialists and other medical staff are doing their best to manage the surge in cases at the A&E Centre and new admissions will be allowed as soon as things get under control,” the statement read.

The KATH currently serves 12 out of the 16 administrative regions of Ghana, pushing the only referral centre under critical constraint and congestion.

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Speaking on the status of the recruitment exercise, Mr. Akandoh said the Ministry of Health is working to ensure a smooth transition of the recruits into the healthcare system and is confident that all outstanding administrative procedures will be completed within the month.

“I don’t want to give a specific date, but at the latest, I think by July we should be done with it. We are looking at them starting work in July,” he stated.

The Minister disclosed that the Ministry will soon publish the names of all recruited personnel, along with details of the locations where they are expected to attend interviews.

According to him, the publication is intended to provide clarity for applicants and address concerns regarding postings and interview arrangements.

“We are going to publish all the names and where they’ll be going for their interviews,” he said, adding that successful candidates would be formally absorbed into the health sector after completing the necessary processes.

Mr. Akandoh further revealed that the deployment of the newly recruited health workers will prioritise rural and underserved communities, where staffing shortages continue to affect healthcare delivery.

He noted that the government remains committed to strengthening the country’s healthcare system by ensuring that health facilities, particularly those in deprived areas, have the personnel needed to provide quality healthcare services.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Monday, June 2, 2026, Mr Akandoh said Ghana’s health authorities are actively tracking the spread of the virus and working closely with regional and international partners to prevent any potential outbreak in the country.

Clarifying the relationship between the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the Minister stressed that the two institutions operate as one entity in the implementation of health policies and emergency responses.

“The Ministry is not working with the Ghana Health Service. The Ghana Health Service is part of the Ministry. The Ghana Health Service is an agency under the Ministry, not a separate ministry. So, when the Ghana Health Service is working, it is the Ministry working,” he explained.

Mr Akandoh disclosed that the Ministry receives daily updates on Ebola cases and trends across the continent, enabling authorities to assess risks and respond appropriately.

“We receive the figures every day. We know how the situation is evolving, where the virus is spreading and all the related developments. So, we are monitoring the situation together with other countries,” he said.

The Minister emphasised that developments in neighbouring countries are of particular concern due to Ghana’s shared borders and the potential risk of cross-border transmission.

“When a case is detected in Côte d’Ivoire or Togo, we pick it up immediately. We have to be very careful because once a neighbouring country records a case, our risk level changes, given the close geographical links,” he noted.

Mr Akandoh further revealed that health ministers across Africa engage regularly through platforms established by the African Union and other regional bodies to share information and coordinate preparedness measures.

“Even as ministers, we have a common platform where we meet regularly and exchange information,” he said, adding that some of the discussions and data shared are not made public but are crucial for planning and emergency preparedness.

He assured the public that health authorities would continue to provide relevant information on Ebola, including its causes, symptoms and preventive measures, to ensure that citizens remain informed and vigilant.

“What is important for public consumption is to educate people about the causes of Ebola, its symptoms and what we expect from the public in terms of prevention and reporting,” he said.

The Ministry of Health reiterated its commitment to maintaining robust surveillance systems and responding swiftly to any emerging threats, stressing that vigilance, regional collaboration and early detection remain critical to keeping Ghana safe from Ebola and other infectious diseases.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, the minister urged individuals showing possible symptoms of Ebola to seek immediate medical attention rather than self-diagnosing or delaying treatment.

“What I want the country to understand is that if anybody is experiencing any of the symptoms of Ebola, first and foremost, let us report to the nearest hospital,” he said.

He listed the key symptoms as muscle pains, vomiting, unexplained bleeding, and headaches, warning against assumptions that such signs automatically indicate malaria.

“Don’t sit home and say that, I’m having body pains or muscle pains, and therefore you conclude that it is malaria. It can only be concluded that it is malaria when a test confirms it is malaria,” the minister said.

He added that while the symptoms may resemble other illnesses, they should never be ignored. “So, if you are going through any of these, it does not mean that when you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you necessarily have Ebola. So, your best bet is to go to the nearest health facility,” he noted.

Mr Akandoh explained that Ebola is transmitted from animals to humans, with fruit bats identified as one of the key carriers.

“We are told that this is transmitted from animals to humans, and it’s caused by a type of bat they call the fruit bat,” he said, adding that infection can occur through direct contact with infected animals, their droppings, or the bodily fluids of infected persons.

The minister further warned that the disease remains highly dangerous, with no approved cure or vaccine currently available.

“Now, the mortality rate stands around 30 to 50 per cent, so it’s high. And the reality at the moment is that we don’t have a medication or a cure for it or a vaccine for it for now. A lot of studies are going on to find vaccines,” he said.

He cautioned against complacency, urging heightened public awareness and vigilance. “I do not want us to sit aloof and not create the necessary awareness so that when we detect cases, we are found wanting,” he stressed.

As part of preventive measures, the Minister emphasised the importance of hygiene, particularly handwashing at public gatherings.

“We want all of us to go back to hand hygiene. So, every public gathering must make provision for hand washing,” he said.

Health authorities continue to encourage the public to prioritise early reporting of symptoms and strict adherence to hygiene protocols as part of national preparedness efforts against potential outbreaks.

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Just as a bird needs two wings to fly, marriage needs the combined effort of two partners to succeed.

A man has his strengths, weaknesses, and unique needs, just as a woman has hers. There are things a man can do best, and there are things a woman can do best. In marriage, we combine our unique abilities to enhance our lives. 

A man will always need a woman, and a woman will always need a man. Each has a crucial role to play.

Roles of a man

The man is the head or leader of the home, regardless of his talent, age, wealth, or education. He is to guide, organise, direct, inspire, and influence the affairs of the family.

Leadership, however, is not about overpowering, controlling, or dominating. A good leader must be a good role model who makes mutual decisions with their wife. Above all, he must be a servant-leader with a clear mission and vision for his family.

A man must love his wife as his own body. He must be patient, understanding that a woman may sometimes react emotionally because of hormonal changes. He should be kind and not reserve kindness only for special occasions or expect rewards in return.

Make your wife your best friend and find time to show your love. Always remember that a woman’s greatest emotional needs are affection and companionship. Show commitment to the family by providing financial, emotional, and physical security. Appreciate everything your wife does for you and the home.

Roles of a woman

A woman must accept the leadership of her husband and submit to him. A husband is not always right, and a woman should not agree with everything he says, especially if it is sinful or violates her basic human rights. 

Even then, she should correct him with humility and wisdom. Respect your husband and avoid taking over the daily affairs of the home simply because you feel more capable.

A woman is a helpmate. Admire your husband and support him at all times. Motivate him and express appreciation for all he does. Show interest in his work, friends, goals, and even the way he dresses.

Take good care of the home because it is the comfort zone where a man relaxes after the pressures of life. Also, remember that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Learn your husband’s favourite meals and make an effort to prepare them well.

Some committed wives even take catering classes to improve their cooking skills, and you can do the same.

As a helpmate, a woman should also contribute to the upkeep of the home. Make efforts to bring something home, no matter how small your income may be. Share your resources with your husband.

One of a man’s greatest needs is sexual fulfilment. It boosts his confidence and makes him feel loved and appreciated. Show affection to your husband and always aim to satisfy him. Your support in this area can have a profound effect on his confidence and motivation.

A man and a woman have different but equally important roles in meeting each other’s needs. Use your skills and abilities to seek harmony and build your marriage.

Be a team and see each other as equals performing different responsibilities to achieve common goals. Equal partnership fosters closeness between a husband and wife, resulting in a stronger and happier marriage.

Value and appreciate each other’s efforts. The man may be the head of the marriage, but the woman is the heart.

Marriage needs two wings to fly

A bird flies by generating lift and thrust through the movement of its wings, overcoming gravity and air resistance. The shape of the wings causes air to move faster above and slower beneath, pushing the bird upward. Both wings must work together for the bird to fly.

In the same way, a fulfilling marriage requires a man and a woman working together. A man must stand strong in his masculinity and a woman in her femininity to develop their two wings. Then, together, they can fly.

The initiative was supported by the Chief Executive Officer of O. Boakye Chemical, Owusu Boakye Samuel, who said the intervention was necessary due to the financial challenges preventing many residents from actively subscribing to the scheme.

According to him, lack of NHIS membership has been a major barrier to healthcare access, forcing many residents to delay or avoid seeking medical attention when sick, a situation he said poses serious risks to their wellbeing.

He explained that out of the 566 beneficiaries, 197 were new registrations while 369 were renewals, expressing confidence that the exercise would enable more residents to access timely medical care.

“With this support, beneficiaries will now be able to visit health facilities without fear of financial constraints whenever they fall sick,” he said.

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the intervention, describing it as a timely relief that will ease their burden and improve healthcare access for their families.

They noted that the renewal and registration exercise would ensure they remain active members of the NHIS and benefit from healthcare services when needed.

The NHIA Director for Asutifi South District, Joseph Sarkodie, also commended the initiative, noting that many residents in the district still remain outside the scheme due to financial difficulties.

He called on individuals, corporate organisations and NGOs to support efforts aimed at expanding NHIS coverage to ensure universal access to healthcare.

He further praised O. Boakye Chemical for its contribution, describing the intervention as a model of private sector support for public health delivery in underserved communities.

The exercise is expected to strengthen healthcare access in Nkaseim and contribute to improved health outcomes in the Ahafo Region.

The medical equipment was donated by WAMPHARMA as part of efforts to strengthen child healthcare delivery and improve access to quality primary healthcare services across the country.

Presenting the items, the company’s Director of Partnerships and Sales for West Africa, David Sam, said the donation followed engagements with Masimo on ways of supporting the government’s flagship healthcare programme.

He noted that the equipment would help enhance patient monitoring and contribute to improved healthcare outcomes, particularly among children receiving care at health facilities.

Receiving the donation on behalf of government, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh expressed appreciation to the company for the gesture, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in the Free Primary Healthcare policy.

The Minister said the initiative represents a major step forward in Ghana’s healthcare system and is expected to improve access to essential healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations.

He further called on corporate organisations, development partners and individuals to support the government’s efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector and improve patient care nationwide.

According to the Minister, partnerships between government and the private sector remain critical to achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all Ghanaians.

The donation forms part of broader efforts to equip health facilities with modern medical devices to enhance service delivery under the Free Primary Healthcare programme.

The partnership marks a significant collaboration between the media personality and the fast-growing skincare brand.

The deal is expected to boost awareness of NG Cosmetics’ range of skincare products, which include face creams formulated to address pimples, hyperpigmentation and skin patches, as well as cocoa butter and black soap products designed for skin nourishment and exfoliation.

Speaking after her unveiling, Sister Sandy expressed excitement about joining the brand, describing NG Cosmetics as one of Ghana’s fastest-rising skincare companies.

According to her, the partnership came naturally as she had already been using some of the brand’s products prior to the ambassadorial deal.

“I believe in the quality of these products and the brand’s commitment to promoting healthy skincare without harmful side effects,” she said. “I am excited to be part of this journey and look forward to helping more people discover effective skincare solutions.”

Representatives of NG Cosmetics welcomed Sister Sandy to the brand, describing her as an influential media personality whose popularity and credibility make her a strong fit for the role.

They expressed confidence that her large following and public appeal would help increase brand visibility and expand the company’s reach in Ghana and beyond.

The appointment reflects NG Cosmetics’ strategy to strengthen its presence in the beauty and skincare industry while connecting with consumers through trusted public figures.

With Sister Sandy on board, industry observers expect the partnership to further boost the brand’s profile in Ghana’s skincare market.

The appeal was made during a march through the principal streets of Hwidiem to officially launch this year’s Emergency Medicine Day celebration.

Speaking to Adom News, the Hospital Manager, Sister Georgina Quayson, described the current emergency ward as inadequate for a facility of its status.

According to her, the emergency unit has only an eight-bed capacity and lacks sufficient equipment to enable health professionals to effectively manage emergency cases.

“The emergency unit is not befitting the standard of the hospital because it has only an eight-bed capacity and does not have adequate equipment to help staff save lives as expected,” she said.

Sister Quayson explained that the hospital, which serves as a referral centre, urgently requires an expansion of the emergency ward as well as additional medical equipment to cater for the growing number of patients.

She therefore appealed to individuals, corporate organisations and non-governmental organisations to support the facility.

“We don’t want the hospital to record the slogan ‘No Bed Syndrome’, therefore all must see this call as urgent and important,” she stressed.

Also speaking to Adom News, the Nurse Manager, Gladys Bediako, and the In-Charge of the Emergency Unit, Nsiah Kwaku Stephen, said the facility receives a high number of emergency cases daily due to its reputation as one of the leading emergency care centres in the region.

According to them, the limited space at the emergency ward sometimes forces healthcare workers to treat patients on the floor.

They noted that the situation underscores the urgent need for expansion and improved equipment at the facility.

The health professionals further indicated that mining activities in the Ahafo Region, particularly in the Asutifi North and South districts, contribute significantly to the increasing number of emergency cases reported to the hospital on a daily basis.

The immediate declaration follows an extensive, high-stakes operational tour by the sector minister to assess the structural integrity of border surveillance, medical isolation systems, and emergency preparedness at the nation’s primary international gateways.

The multi-site working visit, which took place on Friday, May 29, 2026, saw the leadership of the health sector inspect critical screening installations at the Accra International Airport (AIA) before touring diagnostic laboratories at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) and specialised containment units at the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre (GIDC).

The high-level assessment was engineered to stress-test the state’s medical readiness and cross-border surveillance capabilities. The aggressive mobilisation comes on the heels of the World Health Organisation (WHO) declaring the rare, highly virulent Bundibugyo Ebola strain a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Tightening Airport and Land Border Loops

At the Accra International Airport, the ministerial delegation scrutinised passenger screening points, thermal scanning lines, and emergency holding bays.

The minister acknowledged that while current port health checks are active and functional, the state must rapidly transition to more advanced, non-contact digital detection mechanisms to completely eliminate human error.

Addressing the media after the inspection, the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, underscored that institutional readiness alone cannot avert a national health crisis without absolute public cooperation.

Taking an uncompromising stance on public health management, the minister directed all public institutions, transport unions, local government authorities, and event organizers to immediately reintroduce strict hand-hygiene and sanitation mandates across the country.

“It’s very important for all of us to cooperate. We are taking activities at the land borders seriously; if there’s any case, we’re ready. There’s no cause for panic; nobody should panic. All should adhere to the safety measures. From today, there should not be mass gatherings. We have issued that advisory, and we still stand by it,” Mr Akandoh warned.

Meanwhile, the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research has been resourced to enhance high-speed testing capacity.

Following the airport simulation exercises, the team inspected the advanced diagnostic infrastructure at the nation’s premier biomedical laboratory, the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research.

The Director of the Institute, Professor Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, assured the government delegation that the facility’s high-containment biosafety laboratories have been heavily resourced with the necessary chemical reagents and are structurally prepared to handle accurate, high-speed differential testing for any suspected Ebola cases.

Accompanying the minister on the inter-agency tour was the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative to Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka.

Dr Braka highlighted the severe scientific and epidemiological challenges presented by this particular Bundibugyo strain, urging regional leaders to treat border management with maximum urgency while the international community races to deploy specialised vaccine candidates.

These long-standing taboos continue to fuel period-related shame and discrimination, while limiting access to sanitation and education for girls and women.

Menstrual justice advocates say menstruation is a natural biological process and should not be associated with stigma or impurity.

The concerns were highlighted during Menstrual Hygiene Day celebrations as Development Bank Ghana (DBG) rolled out a menstrual hygiene Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.

As part of the outreach programme, DBG donated more than 10,000 sanitary pads and educated students on menstrual health at Tepa Senior High School and Mabang Senior High School in the Ahafo Ano North Municipality, as well as CMI Carmel School in the Tano South Municipal District.

The campaign focused on promoting menstrual hygiene awareness and breaking taboos surrounding menstruation.

Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at DBG, Barbara Anawonu Wricketts, said menstruation is not a sign of being dirty, unhygienic, or morally impure.

She stressed the importance of education and open conversations in empowering women and girls to manage their periods with dignity.

“Menstruation is a normal part of women’s lives, and the long-held misconception that it makes a woman ‘unclean’ must stop, because it is the Creator who ordained it as part of women’s lives. That belief often leads to stigma, isolation and shame,” Ms. Anawonu Wricketts stated.

She noted that the stigma is often evident when people, particularly men, avoid getting close to women during their periods or treat them differently.

According to her, such attitudes reinforce harmful stereotypes, discourage open discussions about menstrual health, and undermine girls’ confidence in school, work and social settings.

“Challenging the myth and normalising menstruation is essential if we want to create a society where women and girls can manage their periods with dignity and without fear of judgment,” she added.

Commenting further on the initiative, Ms. Anawonu Wricketts said DBG regularly distributes sanitary pads to students as part of its targeted CSR interventions.

She explained that the outreach aligns with the bank’s broader mandate to support human capital development by addressing both access and awareness challenges.

“Our goal is to remove the practical and social barriers that keep girls out of the classroom. By combining sanitary pad distribution with targeted education, we are helping to normalise conversations around menstruation and support the confidence of women, especially students, during their periods,” she said.

She reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting menstrual health programmes and expanding access to sanitary products for girls and women.

School authorities welcomed the initiative, noting that many students struggle to afford sanitary pads each month, forcing some girls to miss classes.

Madam Helena Baffoe Adentwi, Senior House Mistress at Tepa SHS, described the educational component targeting both boys and girls as critical in changing attitudes within the school community.

According to her, open conversations help dispel myths surrounding menstruation and create a supportive environment where girls feel comfortable seeking help while boys learn to show understanding instead of stigma.

Female students who participated in the seminar and donation exercise expressed appreciation for DBG’s intervention.

“This support means a lot to us,” one student said. “Many of us had no choice but to use rags or scraps of paper during our periods, which put us at risk of infections and other health issues. With access to proper sanitary products, we can manage our menstruation with dignity and attend classes without fear or embarrassment.”

The students noted that the donation is expected to reduce absenteeism and restore confidence, allowing them to focus fully on their studies.

DBG is a Development Finance Institution that supports businesses in Ghana and provides long-term capital to the market while ensuring sustainable global best practices across its operations.

As part of its annual #EmpoweredPeriodsCampaign, the brand simultaneously activated outreach programmes across 19 locations nationwide on May 28, distributing free sanitary pads and providing menstrual hygiene education to thousands of students and young women.

The large-scale initiative forms part of Yazz’s flagship social intervention programme, The Dignity Project, which seeks to ensure that adolescent girls are able to remain in school and manage their menstrual health with dignity, comfort and confidence.

Building on the momentum of the nationwide activation, Yazz is also expanding its outreach through a high school engagement campaign focused on awareness creation, mentorship and empowerment.

The initiative will address key adolescent health issues, including menstrual hygiene, breast cancer awareness, oral health, personal hygiene and mental wellness.

Speaking on the impact of the campaign, Marketing Executive of Lexta Ghana Limited, Akosua Naana Lexis Obenewaa Opoku-Agyemang, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting young girls across the country.

“Our massive outreach across 19 locations proves that tackling period poverty is a continuous, deeply felt mission for us. Through ‘The Dignity Project’ and our annual ‘Empowered Periods Campaign,’ we ensure young girls experience their cycles with dignity, comfort, and confidence in their personal care,” she stated.

She added that the school outreach initiative would allow the brand to engage directly with students nationwide while creating safe spaces for education, mentorship and empowerment.

Over the years, Yazz has positioned itself as more than just a personal care brand, emerging as a strong advocate for girls’ health, education and self-confidence through community-centred interventions and nationwide campaigns.