Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

NACOC and GJA Partner to Combat Rising Substance Abuse and Drug Trafficking Among Ghanaian Youth
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NACOC and GJA Partner to Combat Rising Substance Abuse and Drug Trafficking Among Ghanaian Youth

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has initiated a strategic partnership with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to intensify the national campaign against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. During a formal visit to the International Press Centre in Accra on June 10, 2026, NACOC Director-General Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey emphasized the urgent need for a collaborative approach to safeguard the health of the nation's youth. This alliance aims to leverage the power of the media to drive public education and provide accurate information regarding the devastating consequences of drug use, particularly as the country prepares for the upcoming World Drug Day. Brigadier General Mantey expressed deep concern over the escalating rates of substance abuse within schools and local communities. He noted that many students are increasingly being lured into drug experimentation because they lack adequate awareness of the physiological and legal risks involved. To counter this, NACOC is ramping up its educational outreach across various sectors. The Commission’s strategy focuses on shifting the narrative from purely punitive measures to a balanced approach that prioritizes prevention through knowledge and community engagement, while maintaining strict enforcement of narcotics laws. Responding to the call for action, GJA President Albert Dwumfour pledged the Association’s full support for the initiative. He highlighted the media’s indispensable role as a public watchdog and educator, committing to promote responsible journalism when reporting on drug-related issues. Dwumfour noted that the partnership would involve fostering a culture of accurate reporting that avoids sensationalism, aiming instead to minimize substance abuse through informed discourse. Both organizations agreed that a united front is necessary to address the evolving drug landscape in Ghana, which includes the emergence of new substances and more sophisticated trafficking methods. This collaboration marks a significant step in Ghana’s public health strategy, aligning law enforcement with social advocacy. By integrating NACOC’s enforcement capabilities with the GJA’s communication reach, the initiative seeks to foster a drug-free environment that supports the healthy development of the next generation. Moving forward, the two bodies plan to implement joint awareness programs and workshops to ensure that the message of drug prevention and the promotion of healthy lifestyles reaches every corner of the country.

Greater Accra Facing Public Health Emergency as Illegal Waste Contaminates Weija Lake and Disposal Infrastructure Collapses
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Greater Accra Facing Public Health Emergency as Illegal Waste Contaminates Weija Lake and Disposal Infrastructure Collapses

The Greater Accra Region is currently grappling with a severe environmental and public health crisis as hazardous waste from an illegal landfill has contaminated Weija Lake, the primary drinking water source for approximately 80% of Accra residents. Following recent floods, an unauthorized dumpsite located along the River Jei in the Ga South Municipality washed massive quantities of municipal, industrial, and electronic waste into the lake. Experts, including Dr. Naa Ayikailey Bruce-Vanderpuije, have warned that the water now contains dangerous heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, as well as various pathogens. These contaminants pose long-term health risks, including developmental damage in children, gastroenteritis, and increased cancer risks for adults. Local residents have reported unbearable odors and an influx of disease vectors like flies and mosquitoes, leading to urgent warnings to avoid tap water until safety can be confirmed through rigorous testing. Compounding this environmental disaster is a systemic breakdown in waste management logistics across the capital. Over 500 refuse transport operators, primarily motor-tricycle (Aboboyaa) riders, have been stranded for hours in long queues due to the closure of major disposal facilities. The flooding of the Weija-Oblogo landfill and the closure of the Mortuary Road site have forced the majority of waste collectors to rely on the McCarthy Down disposal site, which is now severely overwhelmed. This bottleneck has caused a backlog along the Mallam–Kasoa Highway, increasing operational costs for collectors and raising fears of a spike in indiscriminate dumping as refuse continues to accumulate in populated urban areas. Beyond the immediate threat to the water supply, environmental advocates are highlighting the broader ecological consequences of Ghana’s waste management failures. Abdul Na-eem Muniru, founder of the Ocean Harmony Project, recently cautioned that the plastic pollution crisis has progressed to the point where microplastics are entering the human food chain through fish consumption. As waste washes from illegal land sites into waterways and eventually the ocean, it disrupts marine ecosystems and compromises food security. This cycle of contamination underscores the interconnectedness of land-based sanitation and the long-term health of the Ghanaian population. In response to these escalating challenges, local authorities and private partners have intensified sanitation efforts, such as the "Clean Up Accra" initiative. Led by Zoomlion Ghana Limited, the Ghana Police Service, and local municipal assemblies, these campaigns aim to de-silt gutters and remove accumulated waste to prevent further flooding and disease outbreaks. Richard Donkor, the Municipal Environmental Health Officer for Ayawaso North, emphasized that while these initiatives are vital, they require sustained community participation and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to be effective. Moving forward, experts and residents alike are calling for immediate government intervention to identify alternative disposal sites, remediate the Weija Lake contamination, and overhaul the region’s waste infrastructure to prevent a total public health collapse.

Ebola Crisis Intensifies in DR Congo as Resistance in Displacement Camps and Cross-Border Risks Rise
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Ebola Crisis Intensifies in DR Congo as Resistance in Displacement Camps and Cross-Border Risks Rise

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a worsening Ebola outbreak that has now expanded into new regions, claiming 136 lives out of 676 confirmed cases since mid-May. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the virus is predominantly affecting Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces. Efforts to contain the spread are being severely hampered by inadequate isolation bed capacity and suboptimal contact tracing, with health officials currently only reaching 70% of known contacts. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the outbreak is taking root in areas already destabilized by conflict and massive internal displacement. A significant flashpoint has emerged at the Kpangba displacement camp in the Nizi health zone, where an atmosphere of deep-seated mistrust is preventing critical health interventions. Following the deaths of two women on May 31 and June 1, health workers encountered open hostility and resistance from residents who deny the deaths were Ebola-related. This skepticism has stalled contact tracing efforts within the camp, which houses approximately 30,000 people fleeing regional violence. With over 81,000 displaced individuals in the Nizi zone alone and more than 5 million across the affected provinces, the combination of poor sanitation, overcrowding, and community resistance poses a catastrophic risk for rapid transmission. Beyond the immediate logistical hurdles, the crisis is being exacerbated by misinformation and violence directed at health personnel and treatment facilities. Local health chief Jean-Claude Lonzama has highlighted the difficulty of operating in an environment where residents view outsiders with suspicion. This resistance is not isolated; it follows a pattern of previous attacks on treatment sites that have slowed the response. The WHO has emphasized that without a rapid scaling of isolation units and improved community engagement to build trust, the outbreak—already larger than many previous ones—could spiral further out of control. Adding to the urgency, celebrated Liberian surgeon and 2014 Ebola fighter Dr. Jerry Brown has issued a stern warning that "Ebola knows no borders." Recalling his experience during the devastating West African outbreak that killed over 10,000 people, Dr. Brown urged regional vigilance and cautioned against complacency. He noted that individuals can leave a country while asymptomatic and fall ill elsewhere, making the current situation in the DRC a potential threat to the broader continent. His call for increased surveillance serves as a reminder of the personal and systemic toll the virus takes on health workers and families alike.

Oti Region Stakeholders Endorse Ghana’s 2027 Local Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative for Health Security
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Oti Region Stakeholders Endorse Ghana’s 2027 Local Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative for Health Security

Health stakeholders in Ghana's Oti Region have expressed strong support for the government's ambitious roadmap to commence local vaccine manufacturing by 2027. This initiative, identified as a critical step toward national health security and self-reliance, aims to drastically reduce the country's dependence on imported biologicals. During a series of nationwide assessments and interviews, local leaders and health experts highlighted that domestic production is no longer just a luxury but a necessity for ensuring a robust response to future disease outbreaks and global supply chain disruptions. Key figures in the region, including Dr. Raphael Tumawu and Mr. Prosper Kwaku Addo, emphasized that the shift to local production would provide more timely access to life-saving treatments. Dr. Tumawu pointed out that manufacturing vaccines within Ghana’s borders would help resolve chronic supply chain bottlenecks that often delay immunization programs. Furthermore, Mr. Addo and Madam Wilhemina Makpanke noted that vaccines tailored specifically to the local health landscape would be more effective in addressing the unique medical realities and disease profiles prevalent within Ghanaian communities. Despite the overwhelming support, stakeholders also cautioned that the success of the 2027 goal depends heavily on public trust and regulatory rigor. Addressing persistent vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation remains a significant hurdle. Experts have called for the implementation of strict quality control measures and transparent communication strategies to reassure the public of the safety and efficacy of "Made in Ghana" vaccines. Madam Makpanke specifically underscored the importance of ensuring these vaccines meet international standards to build the necessary confidence among the citizenry. Moving forward, the stakeholders advocated for a multi-pronged approach involving sustained public education, improved community access, and a proactive media strategy. They urged media houses to play a central role in disseminating accurate information to counter anti-vaccine narratives. By combining rigorous regulatory oversight with a comprehensive public awareness campaign, the Oti Region's health leaders believe Ghana can successfully transition to a self-sufficient vaccine ecosystem, safeguarding the health of future generations while fostering local industrial growth.

KGL Foundation Champions Preventive Healthcare with Free Screening Exercise in Bolgatanga
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KGL Foundation Champions Preventive Healthcare with Free Screening Exercise in Bolgatanga

The KGL Foundation has organized an extensive free health screening exercise for residents of the Bolgatanga Municipality, aimed at bridging the gap in healthcare access and promoting a culture of preventive medicine. The initiative provided community members with essential medical checks that would otherwise be financially out of reach for many. Participants underwent screenings for a wide range of conditions, including Hepatitis B and C, HIV, malaria, and blood sugar levels, as well as blood pressure monitoring and mental health assessments. The program was designed to remove the financial barriers that often prevent low-income individuals from seeking routine medical care. Mr. Nii Ankonu Annorbah-Sarpei, the Programmes Manager for the KGL Foundation, underscored the significance of knowing one’s health status as a prerequisite for early detection and effective treatment. He noted that routine assessments are critical in preventing minor health issues from escalating into life-threatening complications. By bringing these services directly to the people, the Foundation sought to eliminate the "cost barrier" that often prevents individuals from seeking medical attention until they are severely ill. Despite adverse weather conditions reported during the exercise, the strong turnout highlighted a significant unmet demand for accessible healthcare services within the municipality. Supporting the exercise, Public Health Nurse Ms. Rosemary Akolbire expressed concern over the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region. She explained that financial constraints frequently hinder routine health checks, making community-based interventions like this one vital for public health monitoring. The initiative placed a specific emphasis on the wellbeing of women and children, viewing their health as a cornerstone for both social and economic progress. For many participants, the event marked the first time they had ever undergone such comprehensive medical testing, revealing a critical need for sustained health advocacy in underserved areas. Beneficiaries of the program expressed profound gratitude to the KGL Foundation, noting that the relief from medical costs allowed them to focus on managing their health proactively. As the exercise concluded, residents and community leaders called for the expansion of such initiatives to other parts of the country to improve national health awareness. By successfully bringing specialized services closer to the people, the KGL Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to health advocacy, reinforcing the idea that investment in community health is a vital component of broader societal development.

NMEP Intensifies Malaria Elimination Efforts as KNUST Study Warns of Impending Health Workforce Crisis in Greater Accra
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NMEP Intensifies Malaria Elimination Efforts as KNUST Study Warns of Impending Health Workforce Crisis in Greater Accra

The health landscape in Ghana is currently navigating a complex period of strategic progress and internal human resource challenges. While the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) is making significant strides in its campaign to eradicate malaria, particularly in the Greater Accra Region, a new study from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) reveals a concerning trend: approximately 60% of health workers in the same region are considering resigning from their positions. These developments highlight a critical juncture for the nation’s healthcare system, where the success of public health initiatives depends heavily on the stability and well-being of the medical workforce. In a positive development for disease control, the NMEP recently recognized the Daily Graphic for its sustained support in the national fight against malaria. During a formal visit to present a certificate of recognition to Editor Theophilus Yartey, NMEP representatives Eunice Mintah-Agyemang, Ivy Samoa Forson, and Delphine Dede Agbaglo commended the media house for its role during World Malaria Day and beyond. The NMEP is currently targeting total malaria elimination in 21 low-prevalence districts within the Greater Accra Region. To achieve this, the programme is employing a multi-faceted strategy that includes the nationwide distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets and intensive larviciding to combat mosquito populations at their source. However, these ambitious public health goals face a significant internal threat. The KNUST research highlights that six out of every ten health workers in the Greater Accra Region are contemplating leaving their jobs due to a combination of systemic pressures. The study identifies excessive overtime, a chronic perception of understaffing, and the alarming presence of workplace violence as primary drivers for this high turnover intention. While researchers noted that these figures are slightly lower than those found in some previous studies, the current intention levels remain high enough to potentially disrupt the quality of healthcare delivery and threaten the sustainability of clinical services. The convergence of these two reports underscores the necessity of a holistic approach to health management in Ghana. Sustaining the momentum of the NMEP’s malaria elimination program will require a robust, motivated, and adequately staffed healthcare workforce. Researchers recommend that health authorities urgently address staffing shortages and enhance workplace safety protocols to improve retention. By prioritizing the welfare of health professionals, Ghana can ensure that its hard-won gains in disease elimination are not compromised by a shortage of the personnel required to implement them.

Salaga Hospital Investigated Over Missing Newborn as Ghana Marks World Blood Donor Day and Addresses Toddler Screen Time Risks
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Salaga Hospital Investigated Over Missing Newborn as Ghana Marks World Blood Donor Day and Addresses Toddler Screen Time Risks

Ghana’s healthcare landscape is currently facing a mix of localized crises and national health initiatives, highlighted by a distressing investigation into a missing newborn at Salaga Municipal Hospital and preparations for World Blood Donor Day. These developments occur alongside growing public discourse on pediatric welfare, particularly regarding the developmental risks associated with excessive screen time for toddlers. Together, these stories underscore the critical need for improved hospital security, robust medical resources, and proactive parenting in safeguarding the nation’s youngest citizens. In the Savannah Region, a disturbing case has emerged from the Salaga Municipal Hospital where a newborn baby was reported missing shortly after delivery. According to Thomas Gyando, the Assemblymember for the Kito Electoral Area, the mother had traveled 13 miles on a motorbike while in labor to reach the facility. Following a complicated delivery that required the infant to be placed on oxygen, the family was initially told both mother and child were stable. However, concerns escalated when the family was repeatedly denied access to the infant, eventually leading to the revelation that the baby had disappeared. Investigations are currently ongoing to determine the whereabouts of the child and hold any negligent parties accountable. Complementing these concerns about physical safety are warnings regarding the cognitive health of children. Prominent broadcast journalist Nana Aba Anamoah has issued a public advisory to parents about the surge in screen time among toddlers. Anamoah cautioned against using digital devices as "babysitters," emphasizing that screens should not replace traditional modes of engagement such as books, conversation, and outdoor play. Citing advice from child development experts, she highlighted that excessive screen exposure for children under five can negatively impact development, urging parents to maintain strict supervision and encourage diverse forms of engagement to protect their children's long-term health. These individual challenges coincide with a national push to strengthen Ghana’s medical infrastructure. On June 12, 2026, Ghana will observe World Blood Donor Day under the theme “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood, Save Lives.” Dr. Shirley Owusu-Ofori of the National Blood Service Ghana noted that voluntary donations are essential for maternal health and emergency care. As the country prepares to honor voluntary donors, health officials are calling for increased investment in the national blood system to ensure that hospitals are better equipped to handle emergencies and save lives across the country.

Minister Linda Ocloo Oversees Health Screenings and Relief Distribution for 327 Ghanaian Returnees from Côte d’Ivoire
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Minister Linda Ocloo Oversees Health Screenings and Relief Distribution for 327 Ghanaian Returnees from Côte d’Ivoire

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has announced a comprehensive support package including health screenings and relief items for over 300 Ghanaian nationals recently repatriated from Côte d’Ivoire. This humanitarian intervention follows a series of demolition exercises conducted by authorities in the Port Bouët Municipality, which left many Ghanaian residents displaced and in need of assistance. To date, the government has facilitated the return of 327 nationals, with 228 already having arrived home to undergo formal processing and health evaluations.\n\nAccording to the Minister, a primary focus of the government's response is the medical well-being of the returnees. Mandatory health screenings, which include blood testing and general physical assessments, have been established to identify and address any underlying health issues. Individuals found to require medical attention are being provided with immediate treatment. In addition to healthcare services, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has stepped in to provide essential relief items, ensuring that the returnees have the necessary resources to begin reintegrating into their respective communities with dignity and support.\n\nThe repatriation effort also includes a diplomatic component, with the Ghanaian government engaging their Ivorian counterparts regarding the impact of the demolitions. Minister Ocloo noted that Ivorian authorities are expected to provide compensation to those affected by the exercise, a move that aims to mitigate the financial losses suffered by the repatriated citizens. As the government continues to monitor the situation, this coordinated response underscores Ghana's commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad and the importance of inter-agency cooperation in managing large-scale humanitarian returns.

Global El Niño Onset and Local Waste Management Failures Heighten Public Health Risks
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Global El Niño Onset and Local Waste Management Failures Heighten Public Health Risks

The global health and environmental landscape is facing a dual threat as the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officially declares the onset of El Niño, while residents in Ghana's Weija municipality sound alarms over a burgeoning local waste crisis. Scientists warn that the current El Niño conditions, characterized by a significant rise in sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific, could evolve into a "super" El Niño. This phenomenon is expected to exacerbate human-induced global warming, potentially making 2027 the hottest year on record and triggering extreme weather events ranging from severe flooding in South America to intense droughts in Australia and Indonesia. On a local scale, these shifting climate patterns intersect with critical infrastructure failures in Ghana. Along the stretch from Weija to McCarthy Junction, business owners and residents are currently battling a public health emergency caused by a backlog of refuse. For over a fortnight, waste-carrying tricycles have been forced to park along the outer lanes of the highway because the access roads to the primary dumping sites have become impassable. The resulting accumulation of waste has led to foul odors and an infestation of houseflies, creating an environment ripe for disease outbreaks and significantly disrupting local commerce and traffic flow. The global El Niño phenomenon is predicted to raise global air temperatures by approximately 0.2°C, which, combined with local environmental mismanagement, poses a severe risk to food security and public hygiene. In vulnerable regions like East Africa, the weather pattern's influence on agriculture could be devastating. Similarly, in Weija, the inability to manage waste effectively during periods of environmental stress increases the community's vulnerability to vector-borne diseases. Residents are urgently calling on local authorities to repair access roads and relocate the refuse tricycles to prevent a localized health catastrophe. As the world prepares for the long-term impacts of El Niño through 2027, the situation in Weija underscores the necessity of robust local infrastructure to withstand environmental pressures. While international meteorological agencies, including those in Japan and the US, continue to monitor the tropical Pacific for further escalations, Ghanaian community leaders emphasize that global climate resilience must be matched by local operational efficiency. Addressing both the macro-level climate shifts and micro-level sanitation failures is essential to safeguarding public health in the coming years.

NHIA Launches Pilot of One-Time Attendance Code (OTAC) in Asunafo North to Streamline Health Access
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NHIA Launches Pilot of One-Time Attendance Code (OTAC) in Asunafo North to Streamline Health Access

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has officially commenced a pilot phase for its new One-Time Attendance Code (OTAC) verification system in the Asunafo North Municipality of the Ahafo Region. Launched on June 10, 2025, this digital innovation represents a significant shift in how members of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) interact with healthcare providers. By digitizing the verification process at the point of service, the Authority aims to streamline operations and ensure that only valid members receive benefits under the national scheme. Under the new system, NHIS members must dial the shortcode *929# on their mobile phones to generate a unique verification code before seeking medical attention. This code acts as a digital verification tool, confirming the member's active status and recording their attendance at a specific facility. The pilot is currently being conducted across all primary healthcare facilities within the municipality, providing a comprehensive testing ground for the technology's effectiveness in diverse clinical settings. The goal is to enhance access control while simultaneously improving the speed of service delivery. To ensure a smooth transition, the NHIA undertook a rigorous preparation phase that included extensive community outreach and specialized training for frontline health workers. Officials have noted that the early days of the rollout have been encouraging, with no major technical malfunctions reported. This stability is critical as the Authority looks to refine the user experience based on real-world feedback from both patients and medical staff during the initial implementation phase. Looking ahead, the Asunafo North pilot serves as the precursor to a wider regional and national strategy. Following the successful completion of the two-week trial, the NHIA plans to scale the OTAC system to the rest of the Ahafo Region. If these regional benchmarks are met, the system will eventually be deployed nationwide, forming a cornerstone of the NHIA's digital transformation agenda aimed at improving fiscal transparency and service quality for millions of Ghanaians.

TMPC Registrar Urges New Medical Herbalists to Serve Rural Communities Amidst Mainstream Integration Efforts
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TMPC Registrar Urges New Medical Herbalists to Serve Rural Communities Amidst Mainstream Integration Efforts

The Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) has called on newly inducted medical herbalists to accept postings to rural and underserved communities across Ghana to bolster primary healthcare. Speaking at the 7th Medical Herbalist Induction Ceremony, the Registrar of the TMPC, Dr. Yakubu Tobor Yusuf, emphasized that these professionals are critical to bridging the healthcare gap in neglected areas. The ceremony, held under the theme "Advancing Primary Healthcare Through Research-Driven Herbal Medicine Integration," underscored the government's push to modernize and formalize the traditional medicine sector as a vital component of the national health strategy. Dr. Yusuf highlighted the significant impact of plant-based treatments, noting that approximately 70% of the Ghanaian population relies on herbal remedies for their primary healthcare needs. By deploying trained herbalists to rural districts, the Council aims to ensure that these communities receive evidence-based care rather than unverified or potentially unsafe treatments. He urged the inductees to view their profession as a service to humanity, especially in regions where conventional medical doctors and facilities are often in short supply, emphasizing that their expertise is essential for the realization of universal health coverage. Supporting this call for rural integration, Dr. Evelyn Abayaah-Issah from the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) reiterated the government's commitment to mainstreaming herbal medicine. She revealed that efforts are currently underway to include approved herbal medicines on Ghana’s Essential Medicines List. This move is expected to significantly enhance the professional recognition of medical herbalists within the national health system, eventually allowing patients to access regulated herbal treatments under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Such a policy shift aims to standardize the quality of herbal products available to the public. The formal induction and the proposed inclusion of herbal treatments in the Essential Medicines List represent a pivotal shift toward a more inclusive healthcare model in Ghana. By merging traditional knowledge with scientific research, the TMPC seeks to elevate the standards of herbal practice and improve patient outcomes nationwide. As the new cohort of medical herbalists prepares to enter the workforce, the focus remains on ensuring that the benefits of research-driven traditional medicine reach every corner of the country, particularly the most vulnerable populations in rural Ghana.

DVLA Rejects Nearly 5,000 Driver’s License Applicants Over Failed Eye Tests in 2025
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DVLA Rejects Nearly 5,000 Driver’s License Applicants Over Failed Eye Tests in 2025

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has revealed that 4,896 individuals were denied driver’s licenses in 2025 after failing mandatory eye examinations. This development underscores a critical intersection between public health and road safety in Ghana, as the authority intensifies efforts to ensure that only persons with adequate visual acuity are permitted behind the wheel. Out of a total of 251,117 applicants screened throughout the year, the vast majority—approximately 87 percent—passed their tests on the first attempt, while thousands of others required medical intervention to meet the required standards. Detailed statistics from the screening process show that 218,471 applicants were successful initially. However, the examinations also served as a vital health diagnostic tool, identifying serious conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts among the applicant pool. Through subsequent medical treatment and corrective measures, an additional 24,483 individuals were eventually able to qualify for their licenses. Kafui Semevo of the DVLA emphasized that these screenings are not merely administrative hurdles but essential safeguards designed to identify underlying eye issues that could lead to catastrophic accidents on the nation’s highways. In addition to the screening results, the DVLA is currently exploring policy reforms that could modernize licensing standards in Ghana. This includes ongoing discussions regarding whether to allow individuals with 'single vision' to operate private vehicles, though strict restrictions are expected to remain for commercial drivers. To ensure these changes are grounded in scientific evidence, the DVLA is collaborating with the University of Cape Coast and the Ghana Optometric Association to evaluate the impact of such reforms on road safety. This multi-stakeholder approach aims to balance inclusivity with the paramount need for public security. Health and security experts have also used the findings to advocate for better ocular hygiene and professional care. Police Superintendent Dr. Remi Ninkpe cautioned the public against the dangers of self-medication and using unprescribed eyewear, which can exacerbate existing conditions. As the DVLA continues to refine its licensing processes, the 2025 data serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of visual impairments in the population and the ongoing necessity of rigorous medical standards to reduce the carnage on Ghanaian roads.