Hope for Future Generations (HFFG) and its partners have called on the government to prioritize sustainable and equitable health financing to drive progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC), particularly in Primary Health Care (PHC) and immunization services.
In a statement, HFFG acknowledged the government’s efforts to increase the health budget allocation by approximately GHS 2 billion, reflecting a 13.4% nominal increase from GHS 15.6 billion in 2024 to GHS 17.8 billion in 2025. However, it noted that this represents only 6.32% of the total national budget, falling short of the 15% commitment set by the Abuja Declaration.
“Again, when adjusting the 2025 budget for inflation (using February 2024 as a base year), the nominal allocation for 2025 decreased by 23% in real value, indicating a decline in purchasing power. If inflation is not effectively managed, the health sector could face severe constraints, undermining service delivery and progress toward UHC,” the statement read.
HFFG also commended the government’s decision to uncap the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), which will provide GHS 9.93 billion to support vaccine procurement, claims payments, essential medicines, bridging donor gaps such as USAID financial shortfalls, free Primary Health Care, and critical care services.
“While this is a step in the right direction, the Ministry of Finance must release funds to the NHIA without delay. Additionally, the Ministry of Health should submit timely requests to facilitate the NHIA in fulfilling its mandate,” it stated.
With Ghana expected to transition out of Gavi support by 2029, HFFG emphasized the need for sustainable domestic funding to prevent vaccine stockouts, procurement delays, and setbacks in public health achievements.
The statement also highlighted the importance of epidemic preparedness and integrated disease surveillance but cautioned that the country remains vulnerable to outbreaks without a dedicated emergency preparedness fund.
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