President Launches ‘Mahama Cares’ To Address Chronic Health Issues

President John Mahama Launches Ghana Medical Trust Fund

President John Dramani Mahama has launched the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. This initiative, called Mahama Cares, took place in Accra on April 29, 2025. The event was held at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC). Mr. Mahama described it as a beacon of hope for many Ghanaians.

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) aims to provide financial support for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These include Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular diseases, Chronic kidney failure, and Stroke. Mr. Mahama emphasized that this initiative offers hope to families facing high healthcare costs.

The fund resulted from extensive stakeholder engagement. A National Technical Task Force was formed after Mr. Mahama's election as flagbearer. It was chaired by Reverend Emeritus Professor Seth Ayittey and consulted over 3,300 stakeholders. The task force submitted its final report on April 10, 2025.

The draft bill for the fund is ready for Parliament next month. “The Ghana Medical Trust Fund will operate as an independent statutory trust,” he explained. It will have a Board of Trustees and support staff to ensure transparency and efficiency.

Mr. Mahama acknowledged that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has limitations. In 2018, nearly half of NHIS claims were related to NCDs. However, many essential services remain uncovered by NHIS, leading to high out-of-pocket expenses.

He shared a personal story about his mother's diabetes medication costs. He highlighted the difference between imported drugs and affordable generics. Empowering local pharmaceutical production can help lower costs significantly.

The fund will primarily be financed through the uncapped portion of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL). Additional funding sources include government support and voluntary contributions from individuals and corporations. Initial estimates suggest the fund will need GH¢3 billion annually for its first three years.

Mr. Mahama stressed that strategic procurement measures will ensure sustainable access to essential medicines and diagnostics. The initiative also plans to expand coverage over time to include palliative care and home-based medical support.

He reinforced his vision of an accountable healthcare system focused on equity and compassion: “High office comes with an obligation to serve.” President Mahama credited this achievement to a coalition of contributors including medical professionals and civil society actors.

“Your dedication has turned a manifesto promise into reality,” he said in appreciation of their efforts.