Accra, Ghana – The Ministry of Health today inaugurated the Governing Boards and Councils for six essential health institutions, a move aimed at bolstering Ghana’s healthcare delivery system. The ceremony, held at the Ministry of Health Auditorium, saw the formal induction of new members for the National Blood Service, National Ambulance Service, Mental Health Authority, Ghana College of Pharmacists, Allied Health Professions Council, and the Traditional Medicine Practice Council.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced the chairpersons for the respective boards: Dr. Emmanuel Maurice Ankrah for the National Blood Service, Dr. Dan Bazanndut for the Mental Health Authority, Prof. Francis Ackah Armah for the Ghana College of Pharmacists, Prof. Eric Kotei Addison for the Allied Health Professions Council, and Prof. Ato Duncan for the Traditional Medicine Practice Council.
Minister Akandoh underscored the need for stronger oversight, enhanced professionalism, and improved inter-agency coordination, highlighting critical priorities such as addressing the annual blood supply deficit of 120,000 units, closing the treatment gap for over 2.3 million Ghanaians with mental health conditions, regulating the traditional medicine sector which serves over 60% of the population, and tackling shortages of pharmacists and allied health professionals.
He urged the new boards to lead transformative reforms and elevate standards across the health sector. Mr. Desmond Boateng, Chief Director of the Ministry, welcomed the new members, calling for bold and visionary leadership to drive innovation and improve service delivery, and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting their efforts in safeguarding public health and dignity.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
