Ghana’s Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has raised alarm over the growing number of trained health professionals considering leaving the country, a trend he described as deeply troubling.
Speaking at a National Policy Dialogue in Accra on April 9, 2025, Mr. Akandoh revealed that over 66 percent of the country’s health workers have expressed intentions to migrate in search of better opportunities.
The two-day forum, organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organization, was held under the theme: “Transforming Ghana’s Health Workforce for UHC: Align, Invest, and Sustain.”
“If this is not addressed urgently, it could undermine our entire effort to provide equitable healthcare across the country,” the Minister cautioned.
He attributed the alarming trend to economic challenges, limited job opportunities, and poor working conditions.
While the government has increased training for health professionals in recent years, Mr. Akandoh noted that underemployment and the lack of long-term incentives continue to push many to seek prospects abroad.
The Minister called on stakeholders to urgently review existing workforce policies and implement practical strategies to improve retention and sustain the country’s health system.