Ghana Leads the Way in Strengthening Public Health Emergency Coordination
Ghana has emerged as a model for proactive public health emergency preparedness in the WHO Africa Region. Facing a surge in outbreaks – including cholera, meningitis, dengue fever, Marburg virus disease, Lassa fever, and mpox – between 2022 and 2025, the nation recognized a critical need for improved coordination among its health partners. This realization led to the formation of a dedicated Health Development Partners Health Security Sub-Group, facilitated by the World Health Organization (WHO).
From Reactive Response to Proactive Preparedness
Historically, Ghana, like many nations, responded to outbreaks on a case-by-case basis. While the WHO and other development partners consistently provided support in areas like surveillance, treatment, and risk communication, a lack of structured coordination often resulted in duplicated efforts and misaligned resources. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored this vulnerability, highlighting the necessity for a unified, strategic approach.
The newly formed sub-group, operating within the existing Health Sector Development Partners framework, aimed to address this gap. WHO assumed the role of chair and secretariat, with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) serving as co-chair. This partnership brought together key organizations including the Africa CDC, FAO, Global Fund, IOM, JICA, KOICA, FCDO, UNICEF, and the World Bank.
The Mpox Outbreak: A Case Study in Successful Coordination
The impact of this coordinated effort was particularly evident during the mpox outbreak. By aligning support through the platform, partners mobilized approximately US$800,000 from the Global Fund, WHO, US CDC, and UNICEF. This focused investment enabled priority response activities across the country, contributing to a significant slowdown in the outbreak and maintaining a low mortality rate of approximately 0.7%.
Did you know? Ghana recorded 494 confirmed cases of mpox across all 16 regions as of September 1, 2025, with the Western Region identified as the epicenter.
Developing a National Action Plan for Health Security
Beyond immediate outbreak response, the platform is driving long-term preparedness. WHO, US CDC, and the Palladium Group, with funding from FCDO, are collaborating with the Ghanaian government to develop a five-year National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) and a two-year operational plan. This initiative leverages WHO’s NAPHS guidance and the findings of the 2025 Joint External Evaluation of International Health Regulations capacities, ensuring evidence-based investments.
Strengthening One Health Approaches
The Health Development Partners Health Security Sub-Group isn’t solely focused on human health. It’s also fostering collaboration to promote “One Health” approaches, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This holistic perspective is crucial for preventing future outbreaks and addressing emerging health threats.
Future Trends and Challenges
Ghana’s success in strengthening health security coordination offers valuable lessons for other nations in the WHO Africa Region and beyond. Several trends are likely to shape the future of public health emergency preparedness:
- Increased Investment in Surveillance Systems: Early detection is paramount. Expect to see greater investment in robust surveillance systems, including genomic sequencing capabilities, to identify and track emerging pathogens.
- Digital Health Technologies: Mobile health (mHealth) and digital data collection tools will play an increasingly important role in surveillance, contact tracing, and risk communication.
- Community Engagement: Successful outbreak response relies on strong community engagement. Future efforts will prioritize building trust and empowering local communities to participate in preparedness and response activities.
- Strengthened Laboratory Capacity: Rapid and accurate diagnostics are essential. Investing in laboratory infrastructure and training personnel will be critical.
- Regional Collaboration: Cross-border collaboration is vital for addressing outbreaks that transcend national boundaries. Expect to see increased regional cooperation and information sharing.
FAQ
Q: What is the role of the WHO in Ghana’s health security efforts?
A: The WHO facilitates coordination among development partners, provides technical support, and chairs the Health Development Partners Health Security Sub-Group.
Q: What is the Health Development Partners Health Security Sub-Group?
A: It’s a platform for coordinating technical and financial support for Ghana’s public health emergency preparedness and response efforts.
Q: How has the coordination platform impacted mpox response in Ghana?
A: It enabled the mobilization of approximately US$800,000 in resources, contributing to a slowdown in the outbreak and a low mortality rate.
Q: What is a ‘One Health’ approach?
A: It’s a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Pro Tip: Regularly reviewing and updating national action plans for health security is crucial to adapt to evolving threats and incorporate fresh knowledge.
Learn more about Ghana’s health initiatives at the WHO Regional Office for Africa.
What are your thoughts on Ghana’s approach to health security? Share your comments below!
Keep reading