Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has called for increased and sustained investment in healthcare across West and Central Africa, stressing that stronger health systems are essential for economic growth and national development.
Speaking at the launch of the Regional Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy in Accra on Monday, May 4, Mr. Debrah said governments must treat healthcare as a long-term investment capable of improving productivity and protecting livelihoods.
The strategy, developed by the World Bank in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Health, seeks to support more than 20 countries with funding and policy direction aimed at improving healthcare delivery, nutrition and emergency preparedness.
Mr. Debrah noted that Ghana remains committed to achieving universal health coverage and expanding access to quality healthcare services for all citizens, regardless of their social or economic background.
He explained that resilient health systems are critical to national progress, especially as countries continue to face challenges ranging from disease outbreaks to inadequate medical infrastructure.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh also highlighted the urgency of accelerating efforts toward universal health coverage before the 2030 deadline.
According to him, countries in the region must prioritise investments in hospitals, medical equipment and healthcare professionals to improve healthcare delivery and strengthen public confidence in national health systems.
Mr. Akandoh said Ghana’s selection to host the launch demonstrates growing recognition of the country’s efforts to improve healthcare services and drive reforms within the sector.
The Regional Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy is expected to guide coordinated action and major investments aimed at building stronger and more resilient healthcare systems across West and Central Africa.
