The Volta Regional Health Directorate, led by the Regional Director of Health Service, Dr. Emmanuel Atsu Dodor, proudly hosted H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, at the Ho Municipal Hospital for the Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) Durbar and the presentation of essential medical equipment to the hospital.
The event brought together government officials, health-sector leaders, traditional and religious authorities, development partners, health professionals, community representatives and members of the public in a shared commitment to advancing equitable, accessible and quality healthcare for all Ghanaians.
In his presentation, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, outlined the vision and implementation strategy of the Free Primary Health Care Programme. He explained that the initiative seeks to strengthen primary healthcare through health promotion, disease prevention, early detection and timely treatment of common health conditions at the community level, while improving access to essential health services for every Ghanaian.
Speaking on behalf of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), Dr. Peter Kwame Yeboah, Executive Director, reaffirmed CHAG’s unwavering commitment and full support for the successful implementation of the Free Primary Health Care Programme. He emphasized that CHAG facilities, which serve millions of Ghanaians across the country, remain committed to partnering with Government and the Ghana Health Service to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare, particularly for underserved and vulnerable populations.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health, explained that the Free Primary Health Care Programme forms part of Government’s broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s health system through prevention, early diagnosis and quality primary healthcare services. He noted that the programme will provide a package of essential services at CHPS compounds, health centres and polyclinics while promoting healthier communities through preventive interventions.
The Minister further explained that the Free Primary Health Care Programme complements the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares). He encouraged Ghanaians to maintain active NHIS membership for referral and specialized healthcare services, while noting that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will provide support for the management of selected chronic and high-cost medical conditions. Together, these three interventions are expected to strengthen healthcare delivery from prevention through specialized treatment.
One of the memorable highlights of the programme was an educational drama performed by staff of the South Dayi District Health Directorate, creatively portraying the importance of preventive healthcare, early health-seeking behaviour and community participation in the success of the Free Primary Health Care Programme. The performance was made even more remarkable by the participation of the Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Hon. Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, who joined the cast in demonstrating his support for the initiative.
Delivering the keynote address, H.E. John Dramani Mahama reminded Ghanaians that life is the most valuable asset anyone possesses—far more valuable than wealth, property or any material possession. He urged the public to embrace preventive and promotive health practices, emphasizing that protecting one’s health is a shared responsibility between individuals, families and the health system.
The President further provided practical health education on healthy lifestyles, encouraging Ghanaians to adopt healthier eating habits and make conscious lifestyle choices that reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. He advised the public to take their last meal of the day before 7:00 p.m. whenever possible and to avoid retiring to bed immediately after eating, explaining that simple lifestyle modifications can significantly improve long-term health and wellbeing.
A major highlight of the occasion was the presentation of essential medical equipment to Ho Municipal Hospital, reaffirming Government’s commitment to strengthening frontline health facilities and improving the quality of healthcare services. The donated equipment is expected to enhance emergency care, maternal and newborn services, diagnostics and overall clinical care for residents of Ho Municipality and the wider Volta Region.
The Volta Regional Health Directorate extends its sincere appreciation to the Office of the President, the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, the Ho Municipal Assembly, Ho Municipal Hospital, the security services, traditional authorities, religious leaders, development partners, volunteers and all stakeholders whose invaluable contributions ensured the successful organization of this landmark event.
Special appreciation is extended to all staff of the Ghana Health Service across the Volta Region, Municipal and District Directors of Health Services, Medical Superintendents, Heads of Departments, clinicians, nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, administrators, logisticians, drivers, orderlies and all support staff whose dedication, teamwork and professionalism contributed immensely to the successful planning and execution of this national programme.
As the implementation of the Free Primary Health Care Programme gathers momentum across the country, the Volta Regional Health Directorate remains committed to working with Government and all partners to ensure that every resident of the Volta Region benefits from accessible, equitable, people-centred and quality healthcare.
Together, we are transforming healthcare, strengthening communities and building a healthier Volta Region and a healthier Ghana through Free Primary Health Care.
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