Deputy Health Minister Outlines Strategies to Curb Rising NCDs and Maternal Mortality Amid National Drug Policy Reforms

Ghana is currently navigating a complex public health landscape, marked by a sharp rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a concerted effort to improve maternal health outcomes. The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, recently revealed to Parliament that NCDs now account for approximately 43% of all deaths in the country. This alarming statistic, driven primarily by conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, has prompted the government to call for urgent investment in specialized healthcare infrastructure and advanced medical equipment to manage chronic illnesses more effectively. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah noted that these health risks are often exacerbated by unhealthy diets and physical inactivity, necessitating a multi-pronged approach to public wellness.

Beyond the burden of NCDs, the Ministry of Health is intensifying its campaign against maternal mortality through the Maternal Mortality Action and Response Programme (MMARP). During a recent working visit to the Yendi Municipality in the Northern Region, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah engaged with community leaders to address gaps in maternal care and inspect local health facilities. As part of this initiative, the government is integrating maternal and child health services into the Free Primary Health Care framework. Furthermore, the Ministry is bolstering the professional workforce by launching a new Bachelor of Science in Emergency Nursing Programme, which has already welcomed its first cohort of 49 students to strengthen the nation's emergency response capabilities.

In tandem with these medical interventions, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) is spearheading a fundamental shift in how the state handles drug use and addiction. At the Second National Dialogue on Drug Policy, Human Rights, and Public Health, stakeholders evaluated the progress of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019). This legislative framework promotes a rights-based approach that prioritizes treatment and rehabilitation over traditional punitive measures. A significant highlight of the dialogue was the introduction of Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT), a strategy aimed at improving health outcomes for drug users while strengthening overall community safety through public health-led interventions.

The synthesis of these initiatives—addressing the high NCD mortality rate, reducing maternal deaths, and reforming drug policy—signals a transition toward a more holistic and proactive healthcare system in Ghana. By combining specialized infrastructure investment with grassroots community engagement and legislative reform, the government aims to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive equitable care. The Ministry's collaborative approach with international partners and local traditional authorities remains central to achieving these ambitious health targets and improving the general quality of life for all Ghanaians.