The 2026 budget captured major initiatives targeted at expanding and modernizing health infrastructure nationwide, focusing on equitable access, advanced medical facilities, and resilient systems to strengthen healthcare delivery.
Minister for Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized the need to accelerate the nation’s health infrastructural development in order to ensure equality and build confidence in public healthcare delivery.
“Mr. Speaker, to bridge the inequality in access to healthcare across our regions, the government will commence the processes towards the construction of six new regional hospitals for the six newly created regions, beginning with three hospitals in 2026 and two district hospitals at Bole and Shama.”
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance
The minister further emphasized that, given President Mahama’s vision for a robust health system with nationwide health coverage, abandoned health projects will also be completed.
He stated that the government will efficiently and responsibly ensure that Ghana’s health infrastructure is upgraded to meet the needs of the country’s ever-growing population.
“In 2026, the government will complete ten (10) of the abandoned Agenda 111 hospital projects. This approach demonstrates our resolve not only to build new facilities but also to complete existing ones efficiently and responsibly.”
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance
Aside from these projects, the finance minister also stated that the government “will continue the following abandoned hospital projects: La General Hospital, Effia Nkwanta Hospital in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, and Komfo Anokye Maternity Block, Ashanti Regional Hospital in Sewua.”
Dr. Ato Forson also stated that the government will upgrade seven hospitals to provide enhanced maternal and child health services.
The minister further emphasized the importance of these projects as a symbol of the government’s commitment to restoring trust and confidence in public healthcare delivery.
“By expanding access, modernizing infrastructure, and integrating technology, we are laying the foundation for a healthcare system that is efficient, inclusive, and resilient.”
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance
He further emphasized that the vision of the president represents a bold transformation in Ghana’s healthcare journey, as it is about shifting focus from treatment to prevention and ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to live healthier lives.
He also noted that the vision is about moving from inequality to access, guaranteeing that no matter where one lives or their economic status, quality healthcare is within reach.
“We will move from promise to performance, ensuring that no Ghanaian is left behind in the pursuit of good health and national well-being.” He stated.
Key Initiatives to Boost Healthcare Delivery
The Minister for Finance also outlined some key initiatives that the government is rolling out to enhance healthcare delivery as the president’s vision targets Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“Guided by the vision of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, the government is steadfast in its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of income or location, has access to quality, affordable, and dignified healthcare.”
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance
Key among the government’s initiatives for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as MahamaCares.
He stated that it was “established by the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Act, 2025 (Act 1144), to guarantee sustainable financing in the treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and specialized medical services.”
The minister noted that too many Ghanaians battling chronic diseases such as cancer, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and kidney diseases are forced to choose between life and livelihood, a problem the government seeks to resolve.
“In 2026, MahamaCares will introduce a comprehensive NCD financing policy that defines eligible conditions, approved service lists, tariffs, and essential medicines.”
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance
The minister noted that the Fund will collaborate with the National Health Insurance Scheme to harmonize coverage, guaranteeing that managing non-communicable diseases becomes a fundamental right for all citizens, rather than a privilege reserved for a few.
“Mr. Speaker, diagnostic and treatment centers will be built on a public-private partnership (PPP) basis in all major hospitals across the country. These will provide testing and treatment facilities for all the identified NCDs under the MahamaCares program.”
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance
Dr. Forson emphasized that “the 2026 Budget marks a decisive step in our national journey to reset, modernize, and expand Ghana’s health infrastructure.” Adding that “health is the heartbeat of national development, and no country can build lasting prosperity without a healthy population.”
READ ALSO: Ato Forson Touts Power Generation as Most Profitable Sector
