The government is set to invest over GH¢2 billion in healthcare infrastructure between now and 2028, underscoring its continued commitment to improving medical services across the country.
The allocation, which includes GH¢200 million in 2025, was announced by Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem at the launch of the 50th anniversary celebration of the School of Medical Sciences (SMS) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ampem emphasized the government’s dedication to enhancing medical education and healthcare infrastructure in Ghana.
“The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with other stakeholders, remains committed to ensuring that Ghana’s healthcare system is equipped to meet the evolving needs of our population,” he said.
The minister’s remarks also highlighted the government’s broader healthcare agenda, which aims to strengthen medical training and research facilities across the country.
The GH¢200 million earmarked for 2025 will primarily fund critical infrastructure projects, including a new Medical Training Facility at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi. This four-story facility, set to include modern lecture halls, simulation rooms, laboratories, and a medical library, aims to elevate the standards of medical education and research in the region.
Mr. Ampem noted that this new building would play a pivotal role in training Ghana’s next generation of healthcare professionals.
According to the 2025 budget statement, there are several completed healthcare projects underscoring the government’s progress in improving infrastructure. These include the recently completed 120-bed Adansi North District Hospital at Fomena and the Sekyere Kumawu District Hospital in the Ashanti Region, as well as the Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Furthermore, the government has committed to completing the remaining projects under the Agenda 111 initiative, which aims to address the country’s healthcare facility gaps.
“The investments we are making are not just about buildings; they are about creating environments where the best medical education can thrive, where cutting-edge research can be conducted, and where healthcare workers can be properly trained to meet the demands of a growing population,” Mr. Ampem said.
In addition to government funding, Ampem called on the private sector, alumni, and philanthropic organizations to contribute to the ongoing development of medical education and healthcare in Ghana.
Drawing from his own experience as an alumnus of KNUST, the Deputy Minister stressed the importance of collective efforts in driving long-term success. “As an alumnus, I understand the power of partnerships. It is through collaboration—whether financial or advisory—that we can build a brighter future for Ghana’s healthcare sector,” he added.
The government’s funding commitment is in line with broader health sector reforms aimed at improving the doctor-to-population ratio, which has significantly improved over the past decades. From 1989, when Ghana had one doctor for every 20,460 people, the ratio has improved to one doctor per 5,000 people in 2021. The government’s ongoing efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure and improve medical training are expected to continue this positive trend.
Mr. Ampem highlighted the role of KNUST SMS in shaping the future of medical research and innovation in Ghana.
“The next 50 years hold even greater promise for medical excellence,” he said. “With the right investments and continued dedication, we will ensure that Ghana remains a leader in healthcare education and delivery.”