The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service, has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030, using this year’s World Hepatitis Day to announce new measures aimed at reducing infections and improving access to care.
The event, held under the theme “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” brought together health experts, development partners and other stakeholders to strengthen the country’s response to a disease that continues to affect millions of people.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, the Ministry’s Chief Director, Desmond Boateng, described hepatitis as a major public health challenge that requires sustained commitment, stronger partnerships and greater public participation.
He announced plans to expand key interventions, including the nationwide introduction of the Hepatitis B birth dose vaccine to protect newborn babies from infection. He also urged Ghanaians to undergo regular hepatitis screening, saying early diagnosis remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness and save lives.
Director General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, said efforts are underway to integrate hepatitis prevention, testing and treatment into primary healthcare services to make them more accessible across the country.
Health experts at the event revealed that an estimated three million people in Ghana are living with Hepatitis B, while more than 500,000 are infected with Hepatitis C, underscoring the need for increased awareness, early detection and treatment.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the appointment of celebrated musician Okyeame Kwame as Ghana’s National Hepatitis Ambassador. Recognised for more than 15 years of advocacy and free hepatitis screening campaigns, he also unveiled a new awareness song designed to encourage more people to get tested and help reduce the stigma surrounding the disease.
The Ministry also inaugurated a National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group to coordinate Ghana’s efforts towards achieving the global target of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030.
Development partners and representatives from the health industry pledged continued support to expand access to hepatitis testing, vaccination and treatment across the country as Ghana intensifies efforts to reduce the burden of the disease.
