Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, Minister of Health, has unveiled two transformative documents aimed at reshaping Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
The Health Infrastructure Strategic Plan (2025–2029) and the Ghana Health Infrastructure Classifications and Standards (GHICS) were officially launched today in Accra, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s healthcare development.
Addressing a gathering of health professionals, policymakers, and development partners, Dr. Okoe Boye described the launch as “a historical moment” for Ghana's healthcare system.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring accessible, equitable, and high-quality healthcare services through strategic infrastructure investments.
Dr. Okoe Boye commended recent advancements in healthcare infrastructure, citing several completed projects funded through partnerships with Barclays Bank PLC London, Deutsche Bank, and other development partners.
“Through a $175 million investment from Barclays Bank, we have completed seven district hospitals with integrated IT systems across Dodowa, Fomena, Kumawu, and Takoradi. Additionally, a €40 million investment from Deutsche Bank has retooled four health facilities in the Eastern Region, including Tetteh Quashie and Kibi,” he noted.
The Minister further outlined completed and ongoing projects, including:
The Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
Construction of 12 hospitals in various districts such as Jumapo, Kwabeng, and Kpone Katamanso.
Rehabilitation and operationalization of Bolgatanga Regional Hospital (Phase III).
Completion of five district hospitals in Sawla, Tolon, Somanya, Buipe, and Wheta.
“These advancements underscore our commitment to bridging healthcare gaps and ensuring every Ghanaian has access to essential services,” he emphasized.
The Health Infrastructure Strategic Plan (2025–2029)
Dr. Okoe Boye explained that the strategic plan seeks to address disparities in healthcare access, with nearly half of Ghanaians lacking basic primary healthcare services.
The plan aligns with the government’s ambitious Agenda 111, aimed at constructing 111 new district and regional hospitals nationwide.
“At the heart of this plan is the establishment of a Health Infrastructure Management Fund to ensure sustainable, domestically mobilized resources for continuous investment. A dedicated governance structure led by the Infrastructure Directorate will oversee its implementation,” he stated.
The second document, GHICS, sets standardized guidelines for planning, constructing, and managing healthcare facilities.
According to Dr. Okoe Boye, GHICS aligns Ghana’s health infrastructure with international benchmarks, ensuring facilities are safe, efficient, and equipped to meet the demands of a growing population.
“This framework will guide collaboration with private sector partners, development agencies, and local stakeholders, creating a sustainable and harmonized approach to healthcare development,” he added.
Dr. Okoe Boye expressed gratitude to the World Bank, technical teams, development partners, and parliamentarians whose support made the development of these documents possible.
“As we launch these documents, I urge all stakeholders to commit to their successful implementation. Together, we can build a resilient healthcare system that meets the needs of every Ghanaian,” he concluded.
The launch of these strategic plans signifies a bold step forward in addressing Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure challenges and achieving UHC by 2030.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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