His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, the President of the Republic on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, launched the government flagship Free Primary Health Care Programme at the Shai Osudoku Municipal Hospital in Dodowa, describing the initiative as a major step toward ensuring equitable and affordable
healthcare for all Ghanaians.
The programme, seeks to remove financial barriers to accessing basic health services and accelerate Ghana’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage. The launch attracted government officials, health sector stakeholders, development partners, and members of the public.Delivering the keynote address, President Mahama stressed that healthcare is a fundamental right and not a privilege. He noted that primary healthcare remains the backbone of a strong health system and the most effective approach to preventing disease, promoting early diagnosis, and improving national wellbeing.
He explained that under the programme, essential services will be provided free of charge at Communitybased Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, and selected district facilities across the country. These services include outpatient care, maternal and child health services, immunization, basic laboratory services, health education and screening for common diseases. The President assured the nation that government will continue to invest in health infrastructure, expand the health workforce and provide the necessary logistics and medical supplies to ensure the sustainability of the programme. He called on healthcare professionals, traditional leaders, and development partners to support its implementation and urged citizens to prioritize preventive healthcare and regular health check-ups.
The Hon. Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Minta Akandoh, described the initiative as a transformative intervention that will strengthen Ghana’s healthcare delivery system. He explained that the programme will complement the National Health Insurance Scheme by addressing existing gaps in primary healthcare access, particularly at the community level. He further assured that healthcare workers will receive the training, logistics and support required to deliver quality services.Across the country, the launch was streamed live to ensure nationwide participation. In the Ahafo Region, the event was carried live at Goaso through the Information Services Department’s Mobile Information Van and public address system.
The Ahafo Regional Information Officer, Mr. Kombat Bassum Maxwell, led the outreach team, supported by Information Officers Mr. Theophilus Nti-Antwi, Mr. Richard Opoku and Mr. Michael Kwaku Owusu. The team provided commentary and public education as residents gathered to follow the proceedings.
The live streaming attracted strong public interest, with health workers, traders, drivers, students and community members assembling to watch the broadcast. Many residents welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that free primary healthcare would reduce the cost of seeking medical care and encourage early treatment of illnesses. Participants particularly praised the expected improvements in maternal and child health services, describing the programme as timely and beneficial for rural and underserved communities.
The launch of the Free Primary Health Care Programme marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to build a resilient health system and improve access to healthcare services nationwide. Citizens have been encouraged to take advantage of the programme and embrace preventive healthcare practices.
