The World Bank Group has partnered with Ghana to launch a Regional Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy aimed at strengthening healthcare systems across West and Central Africa.
The initiative seeks to address critical health challenges, including infectious diseases, malnutrition, and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases. Unveiled under the theme “Fit to Prosper,” the strategy highlights the central role of healthcare as a key driver of economic growth, productivity, and resilience across the region.
The strategy aligns with Ghana’s ongoing flagship health interventions, including the government’s Free Primary Health Care programme, a capital-intensive initiative estimated to require approximately GH¢1.2 billion annually. The government has already signalled its commitment through significant allocations in the 2026 budget to support its implementation.
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), one of Ghana’s most enduring social interventions over the past two decades, remains central to the country’s pursuit of health sovereignty and affordable healthcare. It is complemented by initiatives such as Mahama Cares, which directly address key priorities within the broader regional strategy.
Support from the World Bank comes at a critical time when global development assistance is under pressure, with concerns over potential aid reductions and their implications for healthcare systems, particularly in Africa.
Ghana’s Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, called for coordinated regional action, emphasising that health challenges transcend national borders and require collective, cross-border responses.
He highlighted Ghana’s ongoing efforts to expand healthcare access, reduce financial barriers, and invest in infrastructure, workforce development, and disease prevention systems.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the health sector, pointing to the Free Primary Health Care initiative and the substantial allocation of approximately GH¢11 billion to the NHIS in the 2026 budget.
The World Bank’s Division Director, Robert R. Taliercio, commended Ghana’s leadership and progress in improving health outcomes, describing the country as a model for regional health reform and collaboration.
The launch brought together Ministers of Health from across West and Central Africa, alongside development partners, health experts, academics, civil society organisations, and private sector stakeholders, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing regional health systems.
The strategy underscores a broader shift toward viewing healthcare not only as a social service but as a strategic pillar for economic development. It also reinforces Ghana’s position as a leader in regional health collaboration and reform efforts.
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