Ghana Advances Health Security with National Action Plan Prioritisation

Ghana has taken a major step forward in public health preparedness by completing a National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) prioritisation workshop. The exercise, led by the Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service, involved multiple government agencies and received technical support from the World Health Organization and UK funding through the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme Phase 2.

Participants identified and ranked key health interventions in areas such as laboratory strengthening, border health, and emergency response to ensure resources deliver maximum public health impact. Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of the Public Health Division at Ghana Health Service, described the workshop as a critical process for directing investments where they matter most.

Simple, intuitive tools were used to evaluate the feasibility and impact of proposed actions, resulting in a clear guiding document for national and partner investments. Dr. Fiona Braka, WHO Representative to Ghana, praised the approach for building a stronger, more resilient health system capable of protecting communities across the country.

Dominic Farrell from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office noted that the workshop ensured investments would be targeted, evidence-based, and focused on saving lives. The prioritisation process brings together data-driven decisions with broad consensus among stakeholders.

Next steps include updating strategic actions by technical teams, consolidating plans with the IHR National Focal Point, applying a costing tool, validating activities, and finalising the NAPHS ahead of its official launch. This comprehensive roadmap will guide future health security investments in Ghana.

Businesses in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and medical supply chains are expected to benefit from clearer investment priorities and stronger public-private collaboration in health security initiatives.

The workshop marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats. International partners have expressed strong support for the country’s proactive and inclusive approach to health security planning.

Health sector stakeholders view this development as a positive signal for long-term investment and technical cooperation in Ghana. The prioritised NAPHS is set to become a key reference document for aligning programmes with national health objectives.

Overall, Ghana’s successful completion of the NAPHS prioritisation workshop demonstrates its commitment to building a robust and resilient health system ready for current and future challenges.

Mintesinot Nigussie