The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Ghana for prioritising health reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), describing recent policy initiatives as critical steps towards strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

The commendation came when a WHO delegation, led by the Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Janabi, paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to discuss strategic partnerships and priority interventions in the health sector.

Prof. Janabi praised key government initiatives, including the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), the Medical Trust Fund, and the Free Primary Healthcare programme.

He noted that these reforms could significantly reduce the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Drawing lessons from countries such as Mauritius, he highlighted the rising threat of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other NCDs across Africa, stressing the importance of early detection and prevention through strong primary healthcare systems.

He reaffirmed WHO Africa’s commitment to providing Ghana with policy and technical support, including the integration of NCD prevention into community-based healthcare, the strengthening of referral and surveillance systems, and improved health financing.

In response, the Health Minister expressed appreciation for WHO’s continued support and acknowledged President John Mahama’s direct involvement in shaping Ghana’s health reform agenda.

Mr Akandoh reiterated Ghana’s commitment to health sovereignty built on strong partnerships, stressing that collaboration remains essential to sustainable development.

He added that Ghana intends to lead by example, with reforms that can be adapted by other African countries seeking to strengthen their health systems.