The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has described the 2026 budget as “the most people-focused and health-centred budget” in recent years, highlighting a strong commitment to healthcare investment.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, Mr Akandoh announced a GH¢34 billion allocation to the health sector, including GH¢11 billion for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

He noted that the scheme has been stabilised, coverage has risen to 20 million people, and the government plans a 120 per cent increase in NHIS tariffs next year to reflect realistic service costs.

The new Free Primary Healthcare package, valued at GH¢1.5 billion, will be rolled out, while the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCare) is now fully operational with GH¢2.3 billion allocated to support patients.

Mr Akandoh also confirmed that construction of three new regional hospitals in the Savannah, Oti, and Western North regions will commence in 2026, with GH¢600 million set aside.

He assured that no uncompleted health project will be abandoned.

The Minister stated that with GH¢16.7 billion earmarked for personnel, the government will continue paying recently recruited nurses, deploy 700 medical doctors, and clear trainee allowances on time.

On the use of Zipline drone services, Mr Akandoh clarified that although the service was originally expected to operate independently, the government has been paying over US$500,000 monthly for its operations.

A review revealed that only 12 per cent of flights serve hard-to-reach communities, while many have been used for non-essential deliveries.

“Government has met with Zipline several times and continues to engage them to ensure value for money. Any future arrangement must align with the president’s directive for efficient and justifiable spending,” he said.

The Minister stated that the 2026 budget reflects the government’s determination to deliver a people-centred health system, strengthen healthcare access, and ensure accountability in public health spending.