Ghana Needs $25m to Import Vaccines as Donor Funding Drops - Health Minister

Apr 15, 2025 - 17:20

Apr 15, 2025 - 17:24

Ghana Needs $25m to Import Vaccines as Donor Funding Drops - Health Minister

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is Ghana's Health Minister

Accra, Ghana - 15 April, 2025 - Ghana's Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the government requires about $25 million to secure vital vaccines for the country this year.

This urgent need arises from the steady decline in donor support, which Akandoh described as troubling. The reduction in aid is largely due to funding cuts, notably those implemented by former U.S. President Donald Trump to USAID, severely impacting Ghana's healthcare system.

This pressing requirement stems from the gradual withdrawal of donor support, a trend Akandoh described as troubling. The dwindling aid is largely attributed to funding cuts, including those made by former U.S. President Donald Trump to USAID, which have significantly impacted Ghana's healthcare system.

According to the Health Minister, the government is forced to explore other options due to declining aid, as he mentioned during a meeting with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana on April 14.

“It is instructive to note that at this point in time, our partners who assist us in procuring most of our vaccines are gradually fading. This year alone, we need not less than $25 million to import vaccines into this country.''

The Minister's concerns highlight the challenges Ghana faces in maintaining its healthcare system, particularly in vaccine procurement. UNICEF has been instrumental in supporting Ghana's immunization efforts, including vaccine procurement, forecasting, and logistics.

However, with decreasing donor support, the Ghanaian government may need to explore alternative funding options or risk disruptions to its healthcare services.