Gov’t increases health financing to strengthen healthcare system – Ato Forson

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson says government has significantly increased investment in Ghana’s healthcare sector as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and prepare for future funding challenges.

Speaking during a meeting with the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Yakub Janabi, Dr. Forson said government has stepped up health financing since 2025 through increased budgetary allocations, reforms to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), and targeted investments in the fight against Non-Communicable Diseases.

According to the Finance Minister, one of the major reforms introduced by government was the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Levy to ensure more resources are available for healthcare services across the country.

He noted that the NHIA has now begun receiving its full allocations strictly for health-related activities.

“Last year, for the first time in a long while, the NHIA received all that was due it,” Dr. Forson stated, adding that the measure has strengthened the Authority’s financial position and improved healthcare financing.

The Minister further disclosed that government is investing in specialised treatment units in hospitals through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to support the management of Non-Communicable Diseases.

He also highlighted the recent rollout of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme, describing it as part of broader efforts to improve access to healthcare and strengthen preventive care nationwide.

Dr. Forson revealed that Ghana is also preparing for the gradual reduction of support from the Global Fund by putting measures in place to fully finance vaccines and essential medicines from domestic resources by 2030.

“As support from the Global Fund for vaccines and critical medicines declines, we are taking steps to ensure that beginning January 2030, Ghana fully budgets for and finances these essential health needs,” he said.

Dr. Janabi commended Ghana for prioritising healthcare investment, stressing that stronger health systems are critical for economic growth and national productivity.

He also encouraged African countries to increase local production of medicines and vaccines, reduce reliance on imports, and intensify interventions targeting Non-Communicable Diseases across the continent.

Source: Classfmonline.com