By: Hannah Dadzie
Hope for Future Generations (HFFG) and its partners have commended the government for presenting the 2025 Budget and Economic Policy but are calling for increased and sustainable health financing to drive Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
While acknowledging the government’s decision to increase the health budget from GHS 15.6 billion in 2024 to GHS 17.8 billion in 2025, a nominal increase of 13.4%, HFFG noted that this still falls short of the 15% commitment outlined in the Abuja Declaration.
In a statement, the organisation said, after adjusting for inflation, the real value of the 2025 health budget has declined by 23%, which could hinder service delivery and UHC progress.
HFFG commended the Government’s commitment to uncap the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) totaling GHS 9.93 billion, aimed at supporting vaccine procurement, claims payments, procurement of essential medicines, bridging donor gaps such as USAID financial shortfalls, free Primary Health Care, and critical care services.
While this is a step in the right direction, the Ministry of Finance must release funds to the NHIA without delay. Additionally, the Ministry of Health should submit timely requests to facilitate the NHIA in fulfilling its mandate.
The organization also highlighted the urgent need for sustainable domestic funding as Ghana prepares for the exit of Gavi support by 2029, to avoid vaccine stockouts and maintain public health gains. They emphasized the importance of achieving vaccine sovereignty. Additionally, HFFG acknowledged the government’s focus on epidemic preparedness and response, but called for a dedicated pool of resources for emergency preparedness, noting the country’s vulnerability to outbreaks.
HFFG’s Key Recommendations:
• Timely Release of Vaccine Co-financing Funds – The government must ensure the prompt release of funds to meet Ghana’s vaccine obligations to prevent shortages and disease outbreaks.
• Increased Health Budget Allocation – Ghana should work towards the Abuja Declaration target of 15% of the national budget for health, as the current 6.32% allocation is insufficient.
• More Domestic Funding for Primary Health Care and Immunization – While the uncapping of NHIL is commendable, additional domestic resources are needed to cover expanded services.
• Dedicated Emergency Preparedness Fund – Ghana needs a reserved funding pool to respond to health emergencies, given the emergence of new disease strains requiring costly treatment.
HFFG reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the government and stakeholders to ensure equitable health financing and uninterrupted access to essential health services. The organization urged policymakers to act swiftly to address these critical gaps to safeguard the health of all Ghanaians.
