Government has underscored its unwavering commitment to strengthening the health sector through timely financing, strategic partnerships, and long-term sectoral transformation. This assurance was delivered by Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko, during a high-level meeting with Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of the Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiatives (GAVI), at the Ministry of Finance.
“The health of our people is the foundation of national productivity and inclusive growth. We have demonstrated our commitment by uncapping the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which has enabled the release of over GHS30 billion in support of vital health services. We intend to sustain this momentum.” Ampem Nyarko stated.
This fiscal move, he said, is designed to ensure liquidity within the health delivery system and enhance access to vaccines and essential services across the country. The meeting formed part of Ghana’s ongoing transition plan from GAVI assistance by 2030.
Highlighting the country’s vision beyond aid, Ampem Nyarko revealed, “Ghana is positioning itself as a pharmaceutical hub in the West African sub-region. This is not just about drug production, it’s about building a domestic value chain, creating employment, and driving innovation.” He added.
The envisioned pharma hub, he added, is a strategic pillar in Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda, aligning with the government’s goals of value addition, economic diversification, and health sovereignty.
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who joined the meeting, praised GAVI for its crucial role in Ghana’s health sector, particularly in improving immunization rates.
“Today, Ghana stands as a leader in vaccination coverage in the sub-region. This progress would not have been possible without GAVI’s unwavering support,” he said.
Dr. Nishtar, in her remarks, commended Ghana’s “trust-based vaccination system,” noting its impact in boosting participation among women and vulnerable groups.
“Ghana’s commitment to healthcare is exemplary, and we are confident in the country’s ability to maintain these gains as it transitions from GAVI support,” she said.
She stressed the importance of sustained government funding to prevent disruptions to immunization efforts, and pledged GAVI’s continued technical support throughout the transition period.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared goals: building a resilient healthcare system, securing vaccine supply chains, and fostering innovation in local pharmaceutical manufacturing. With strong financial backing and visionary leadership, Ghana’s health sector appears poised for a new era of sustainability and self-reliance.
