3 Billion Cedis Fund to Support NCD Treatment for Vulnerable Populations- President Mahama
President of the Republic of Ghana H.E John Dramani Mahama has announced that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will support specialist level treatment for a range of chronic diseases, including cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney failure, stroke and other complications. It will also progressively expand to cover convalescent care, palliative services and home based support.
Speaking today at the official launch of the Mahama Care on 29th April,2025 in Accra mentioned that the initial projection suggests, the fund will require approximately 3 billion Ghana Cedis annually over the first three years.
“Today we’re launching more than just an initiative. We’re launching hope. Hope for 1000s of Ghanaians living with chronic diseases. Hope for families battling the overwhelming cause of care. Hope for a future where the quality of life is not determined by one’s ability to pay for essential treatment necessary.” President Mahama emphasized .
According to President Mahama, the fund will operate as an independent statutory trust, governed by a board of trustees and supported by dedicated administrative Secretariat, third party administrators and patient navigators to ensure transparency, efficiency and a patient centered service ethic.
“And as was said, the main source of finance is going to come from the uncapped portion of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), it will also include direct budgetary support from government, voluntary contributions from corporate institutions and individuals, grants, donations, and will also be able to invest in order to raise investment income . Strategic Procurement measures such as access pricing and framework contracting will ensure that essential medicines and diagnosis are acquired sustainably.” President Mahama stated.
President Mahama also encouraged Local Pharmaceutical Industry to Produce Generic Drugs to Lower Treatment Costs.
“And so I spoke to the minister and asked if we could encourage our local pharmaceutical industries to increase the availability of generic drugs, which are much cheaper than the imported drugs. I know because I paid for my mother’s Diabetes drugs, and I know the difference between the imported drugs and the difference in cost, and so if we can encourage our pharmaceutical industry to produce generic versions of those drugs, it will bring the cost much lower.” He stressed.
“ I wish to commend the exceptional leadership of the national technical task force, chaired by Reverend Emeritus Professor Seth Ayitey, and to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the professional associations, religious leaders, our development partners and citizens who contributed their expertise and passion to bring this initiative to life..” President acknowledged.
