Accra, March 10, – Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, has raised concerns over the rising incidence of kidney disease among young and economically active Ghanaians, describing it as a growing public health challenge.
He revealed that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including chronic kidney disease, now account for about 40–45 per cent of mortalities in the country, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger prevention, early detection, and improved access to treatment.
The Minister made the remarks at the launch of the 2026 World Kidney Day activities organised by the Ghana Armed Forces Health Services at Burma Camp in Accra. The event, themed “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet,” gathered policymakers, military leadership, health professionals, and other stakeholders to highlight the rising burden of kidney-related illnesses and the need for a coordinated national response.
Mr Akandoh attributed the surge in kidney disease to preventable factors such as hypertension, diabetes, unhealthy diets, misuse of medication, delayed health-seeking behaviour, and environmental pollution, including contamination of water bodies from illegal mining and industrial waste.
He noted that government efforts to tackle the problem include primary healthcare reforms, free primary healthcare initiatives, expansion of community health education, and improved access to dialysis services through partnerships with the private sector. Additionally, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahamacares) is expected to provide financial support for treatment of chronic diseases.
The Minister also disclosed that the Ministry is finalising an organ transplant bill to provide a legal framework for ethical and safe kidney transplants, offering a long-term solution for patients with end-stage kidney disease.
Mr Ernest Brogya Genfi, Deputy Minister of Defence, stressed that kidney health is crucial not only for personal well-being but also for national security, as the operational readiness of the Armed Forces relies on the physical fitness of personnel.
Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, Chief of Naval Staff, highlighted that kidneys perform essential functions required for endurance, stamina, and survival, especially in demanding military operations. He urged soldiers to prioritise routine screening, maintain hydration, and adopt healthy lifestyle practices.
Medical specialist Commander (Dr) D.K. Antwi-Gaul of 37 Military Hospital reinforced that chronic kidney disease is largely silent in its early stages, with early detection being key. He warned that treatment costs, including dialysis (GH¢2,000 per week) and kidney transplants (over USD 30,000), make prevention the most effective strategy. He encouraged routine health checks, blood pressure and sugar control, avoidance of unregulated herbal medicines, healthy diets, and environmental protection.
The event also called for stronger multi-sector collaboration among health, environmental, and security agencies, as well as development partners, to tackle the growing burden of kidney disease in Ghana.
GHBUSS
10 March 2026
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