Mahama appoints Prof Enyonam Yao Kwawukume as Board chair of Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Prof. Enyonam Yao Kwawukume as the new Board Chairman of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons (GCPS).

This announcement came during the inauguration of several key health institution boards. These include the GCPS, Teaching Hospitals, and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA). Prof. Kwawukume is a respected figure in Ghana's medical community.

He has decades of experience in clinical practice and medical education. He is the Founder and Vice Chancellor of Family Health University. He also founded Family Health Hospital and held a prestigious chair at the University of Ghana.

At the inauguration, Prof. Kwawukume highlighted serious challenges in Ghana’s healthcare system. He stressed the need for urgent, coordinated efforts to address these issues.

“There is evidence that many hospitals face significant challenges,” he stated. As Board Chairman, he is committed to tackling these problems with his colleagues. His experience with various institutions gives him confidence in their collaborative approach.

Prof. Kwawukume expressed optimism about the healthcare sector's future. He noted that experienced professionals are present within Ghana’s healthcare system.

“What gives me hope is familiar faces I have worked with,” he said. This familiarity can foster collaboration and open dialogue, easing burdens on health leadership.

He emphasized that action is needed over rhetoric: “Sometimes we need action —and now is one of those times.”

Prof. Kwawukume is a trailblazer in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. He gained international recognition for performing the first bloodless myomectomy during a Caesarean section using a tourniquet.

He co-invented the Medical Eligibility Criteria Wheel for Reproductive Health, adopted by WHO globally. His previous roles include Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Korle Bu School of Medicine.

He has held leadership positions in various professional bodies as well. These include past Chair of the West African College of Surgeons (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) and past President of SOGOG.

In recognition of his contributions to women’s health, he received Honorary Fellowship from ACOG.