The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has disclosed that 986 pregnant women died in Ghana in 2024, with the country's maternal mortality ratio standing at 235 deaths per 100,000 live births.

She described maternal mortality as a major public health challenge, stressing that no woman should lose her life while giving birth. According to her, reducing preventable maternal deaths remains a key priority for the government.

Speaking during the Maternal Mortality Action and Response Programme tour in Accra on Thursday, August 6, Dr Ayensu-Danquah said the exercise would enable health authorities to assess maternal healthcare delivery, identify critical gaps and implement measures to improve outcomes for mothers across the country.

"In 2024, 986 pregnant women died," she said.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that strengthening primary healthcare is essential to reducing maternal deaths, explaining that health centres must be adequately equipped to identify high-risk pregnancies early and refer expectant mothers for specialist care where necessary.

She also announced that the government would address infrastructure and equipment challenges at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital as part of broader efforts to improve maternal healthcare services and ensure better outcomes for pregnant women.