The Upper West Region has recorded a nearly 45% reduction in maternal deaths. This significant decline occurred ahead of the rollout of a Free Primary Healthcare policy. The initiative will cover 10 municipalities and districts, impacting about 790,000 people.
The region’s maternal mortality ratio dropped from 87.82 to 48.5 per 100,000 live births. This represents a 45% reduction in the number of mothers dying during or shortly after childbirth. Health authorities noted increased healthcare utilisation and a rise in skilled deliveries as key factors.
This progress aligns with Ghana’s broader health goals to improve public health outcomes and reduce preventable deaths. The Free Primary Healthcare policy, launched by President John Mahama in April 2026, aims to make essential health services accessible to more citizens. Such policies are crucial for human capital development and sustainable economic growth, reducing the burden of illness on families and the national healthcare system. The investment in primary healthcare is seen as an investment in equity, ensuring that more people can access care without financial barriers.
Dr. Josephat Nyuzagl, the Upper West Regional Director of Health Services, confirmed the improved figures. He stated, “I’m particularly pleased to report a decline in anaemia among pregnant women.” Dr. Nyuzagl also highlighted the increase in skilled deliveries, which means more women are giving birth with trained health professionals present. Chief Director Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray, speaking for the Upper West Regional Minister, called the policy “an investment in human development and sustainable growth.”
The Free Primary Healthcare policy’s first phase will cover 78% of the Upper West Region’s population. The region has already received 853 pieces of equipment across 72 categories to support this rollout. Furthermore, 199 health workers have been interviewed for deployment to various facilities. However, infrastructure and accommodation challenges remain, with many Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) zones lacking proper compounds. Addressing these issues will be vital for the policy’s effective implementation and to ensure community health officers can live closer to the communities they serve. The success of this policy will depend on strong collaboration among all stakeholders, including local assemblies, traditional leaders, and religious bodies, to promote health education and ensure sustained investment.
The completion of civil works for the regional oxygen plant is another positive development. Equipment installation for this plant is expected within eight weeks. This will improve critical care services and support patients with respiratory conditions. The Ghana Health Service has also issued new directives, including mandatory CCTV camera installation in health facilities and staff identification cards. These measures aim to enhance safety and accountability within the healthcare system. The emphasis on disease prevention, as highlighted by Chief Director Koray, is also a cost-effective approach to improving public health. Preventing illness reduces the need for expensive treatments later.
The region is now fully prepared for the policy’s smooth take-off. This readiness includes the delivered equipment, recruited health workers, and a circulated implementation roadmap. The Free Primary Healthcare policy is not just charity; it is a strategic investment. This investment aims to ensure every woman, child, and family has access to quality and timely healthcare services. Continued monitoring and addressing identified challenges will be key to sustaining these positive health outcomes and ensuring the policy achieves its full potential across the region.