Bolgatanga: The Ghana Health Service (GHS) in the Upper East Region has recorded 27 maternal deaths between January and June 24, 2026. Out of the total, Bolgatanga Municipality reported the highest number of deaths with 10 cases, followed by Bawku Municipality with seven, Builsa South with four, and Bawku West and Tempane each recording two. Pusiga and Builsa North districts each reported one maternal death.
According to Ghana News Agency, the leading causes of these maternal deaths included eclampsia, which accounted for seven cases, followed by post-partum haemorrhage with five cases. The data further indicated that sepsis led to three deaths, while uterine rupture and antepartum haemorrhage each caused two deaths. Severe anaemia was responsible for one death, and two cases were attributed to unknown causes.
The figures were disclosed during a presentation by Dr. Braimah Baba Abubakari, the Upper East Regional Director of the GHS, at a joint Maternal, Neonatal and Child Health (MNCH) strategic planning meeting. The meeting, supported by the Korea International Cooperation Agency-Project Management Service (KOICA-PMS), aimed at data-driven strategic planning to reduce maternal and child mortality. It was attended by Regional Directors of the GHS, clinicians, public health experts, and other key stakeholders from the health sector.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Dr. Abubakari urged expectant mothers and their families to ensure that all deliveries occur in healthcare facilities. He emphasized the importance of the Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and other health centres in providing safe delivery services. 'If our expectant mothers deliver in these facilities, we will be able to drastically reduce maternal deaths in the region,' he stated.
Dr. Abubakari also noted that while antenatal care is essential, it alone cannot eliminate maternal deaths. 'Antenatal attendance enables us to identify risk factors and counsel pregnant women on the appropriate mode of delivery,' he explained.
Ms. Myeongsean Kim, the KOICA+CHPS Project Manager, highlighted that Phase Two of the project aims to improve maternal, newborn, and child health in the Upper East and North East regions. 'Since 2023, we have been implementing several activities in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and the Government of the Republic of Korea through KOICA,' she said.
Ms. Kim pointed out that maternal mortality remains a significant concern, noting, 'During our assessment and monitoring, we realized there is still a challenge with maternal deaths. While we know the theoretical causes, we want to understand the practical causes on the ground.' She emphasized the need to address real challenges such as gaps in the referral system or a shortage of health workers to achieve their objectives.