Accra: Dr Beatrice Wiafe Addai, Chairperson of the Ghana NCD Alliance, has called for a concerted effort among health stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as MahamaCares. This appeal was made during a strategic stakeholder engagement held in Accra, organized by the Ghana NCD Alliance with support from the Ministry of Health.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Wiafe Addai emphasized the importance of the Fund in providing equitable financing, access to essential medicines, and support systems. She highlighted the need for a collaborative approach involving the government, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to ensure transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to patient needs.
Dr Wiafe Addai stated, "Today, we gather not just for another meeting, but to take a bold step toward something truly transformative - a future where every Ghanaian, no matter their background or income, can access the care they need without fear or hardship." She noted the significant burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like cancers, diabetes, and hypertension, stressing that the MahamaCares Fund offers hope and a shift from promises to tangible action.
The stakeholders were urged to focus on three key priorities: equity, accountability, and impact. Dr Wiafe Addai called for building a fund that maintains public trust and translates policies into real improvements for patients and families, ultimately establishing a legacy of compassionate and fair healthcare for all Ghanaians.
In a speech read on behalf of Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, the government's commitment to health financing was reiterated through the passage of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Act (2025), the appointment of an Administrator, and the constitution of a board. However, it was acknowledged that the success of MahamaCares hinges on collaboration among various sectors.
Madam Obuobia Darko-Opoku, Head of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, provided insights into the Fund's concept, opportunities, funding sources, sustainability, and monitoring framework. Currently, the Fund relies on sources such as the National Health Insurance Levy, Parliamentary Budget approval, investment returns, and donations.
Dr Alex Kombat, Assistant Commissioner of Research and Policy at the Ghana Revenue Authority, pointed out the unreliability of current funding sources and suggested utilizing revenue from health taxes to support the Fund. He highlighted that health taxes in 2024 generated approximately GHC2.25 billion, which could bolster the Trust Fund.