Ghana's institutional maternal mortality rate increased to 110 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024. This marks a slight rise from 109.22 deaths per 100,000 live births recorded in 2023. The Ghana Health Service reported these figures, indicating a persistent challenge in maternal healthcare outcomes.
This increase coincides with public concern following the death of a 31-year-old woman, Theresa Boakye Dua, after a Caesarean section at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, known as Ridge Hospital. Her husband, Daniel Ofori Asante, publicly accused the facility and medical personnel of negligence. Mr. Asante made these allegations in a Facebook post on August 28, 2026, as he prepared for his wife's funeral. He stated that his wife's death on July 16, 2026, resulted from "blatant negligence and unprofessionalism."
The incident at Ridge Hospital fits into a broader national narrative of maternal health struggles. Ghana's maternal mortality ratio, according to WHO-led estimates for 2023, stood at 234 deaths per 100,000 live births. This figure, though lower than previous years, remains more than three times the Sustainable Development Goal target of fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. The nation's 2023 ratio also exceeded the global average of approximately 191 deaths per 100,000 live births.
The Ghana Health Service also noted a decline in skilled delivery coverage, falling from 60.6% to 55% over the same period. This reduction suggests fewer births are attended by trained health professionals, which is crucial for preventing maternal deaths. The World Health Organization emphasizes that skilled healthcare professionals before, during, and after childbirth are vital for saving women's lives. Many maternal deaths are considered preventable with proper medical care.
Mr. Asante's allegations, while not yet substantiated by an official investigation, highlight a recurring public concern regarding medical negligence in Ghana. He described his wife's death as causing "irreparable" psychological trauma to their family. He also mentioned that his newborn son has been robbed of his mother's love. Mr. Asante intends to pursue answers and make further details public after the funeral, seeking to prevent similar tragedies.
The Ministry of Health and the management of Ridge Hospital will likely face increased scrutiny following these public allegations. The Ghana Health Service's data on rising maternal mortality rates and declining skilled delivery coverage demands urgent attention. Policymakers and healthcare providers must address systemic issues to improve maternal health outcomes and restore public trust. The outcome of any investigation into Theresa Boakye Dua's death will be closely watched by the public and healthcare advocates.