Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented the 2026 Budget Statement to Parliament on Thursday, November 13, announcing substantial government commitments to bolster both the nation’s healthcare infrastructure and basic education sector.
Regarding healthcare, the government plans to complete 10 abandoned Agenda 111 hospital projects in 2026. This initiative is aimed at strengthening public health services and ensuring the responsible completion of existing projects. Dr. Forson confirmed that ongoing projects like the La General Hospital, Effia Nkwanta Hospital, Komfo Anokye Maternity Block, and the Ashanti Regional Hospital in Sewua will be continued.
Speaking on this commitment, the Minister stated, “These projects symbolise our commitment to restoring trust and confidence in public healthcare delivery.” He added that the government will also focus on expanding access, modernizing infrastructure, and integrating technology to build an efficient, inclusive, and resilient healthcare system.
The budget also dedicates major investments to basic education. Acknowledging that the sector has been neglected due to excessive focus on secondary education, Dr. Forson announced the construction of 600 new schools—200 each for junior high, primary, and kindergarten levels—to address inadequate facilities and limited access.
Additionally, 400 four-unit teachers’ bungalows and 400 places of convenience will be built and fully furnished across deprived areas. These infrastructure interventions, the Minister stated, “will create access for more than 200,000 additional students every year.” Furthermore, the government will distribute free, comprehensive curricula-based textbooks to learners at all basic education levels, with the Ghana Publishing Company handling the local printing and distribution.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
