Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reaffirmed the country’s determination to reduce its dependence on foreign aid, stressing that future partnerships must come without conditions.
He made the remarks on Monday, May 4, 2026, while clarifying Ghana’s rejection of a proposed United States health deal.
Negotiations with the US began in November 2025 for a $109 million agreement intended to support Ghana’s health sector over five years.
However, reports indicate that in 2024, the US had already disbursed $219 million in foreign assistance to Ghana, including $96 million specifically for health, before announcing cuts to foreign aid.
April 2026 was set as the deadline to finalize the deal, but with pressure mounting over specific terms, Ghana’s Ministry of Health ultimately rejected the agreement.
Speaking on the sidelines of the World Bank launch of its Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy, the Minister emphasized Ghana’s readiness to invest in its own priorities without external conditions.
“We believe in Ghana that African nations must take their destiny into their own hands. We should be able to expand and invest in the health sector. Health sovereignty does not mean isolation. What we need is purposeful partnership, and that partnership must come without strings attached,” Akandoh said.
The Minister noted that Ghana’s health budget is expected to increase by 2027, ensuring the sector operates at its best.
“Ghana is willing and ready to invest domestically where it is needed most. Last year, our vaccine budget stood at around 24 million US dollars. This year, it is around 48 to 49 million. Next year, it will increase again. Investing in vaccines is non-negotiable. Regardless of economic challenges, we must continue to invest in our health sector,” he added.
By Beatrice Sowah
