Ghana Faces Challenges in Reducing Maternal Mortality Rates

Nearly 1,000 women died during childbirth across health facilities in Ghana last year, a figure that highlights the ongoing struggle to improve maternal health outcomes in the country. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) reported an institutional maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 122 deaths per 100,000 live births, exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) target of 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Maternal Mortality Trends in Ghana

In 2024, Ghana experienced a marginal increase in the institutional MMR, rising to 110 deaths per 100,000 live births from 109 in 2023 [1]. While significant progress has been made – with maternal mortality decreasing from 310 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2017 – the current rates remain a major public health challenge.

New Project to Strengthen Maternal and Child Health

A new five-year project, “Improving Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) Service Delivery by Strengthening the Network of Practice (NoP) in Ghana,” was launched to address these challenges. The project is fully funded by the Republic of Korea with a $13 million investment and will focus on strengthening healthcare systems and service delivery in the Ashanti, Central, and Eastern regions.

Dr. Kennedy T. C. Brightson, Director of the Family Health Division of the GHS, emphasized the tragic reality of these deaths, stating that 958 women died in healthcare facilities while seeking safe delivery in the previous year [1].

Areas for Improvement and Collaboration

Despite improvements in antenatal care coverage, skilled delivery services, postnatal care, and family planning services, sustained efforts are crucial to further reduce maternal deaths. Dr. Brightson also highlighted the impact of social media on adolescent behaviors, leading to unintended pregnancies and other health challenges, and called for stronger collaboration among government, development partners, and communities.

Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, Deputy Minister of Health, explained that the Network of Practice model will foster collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge exchange among health professionals. The project aims to improve the quality of maternal and newborn care, strengthen the clinical capacity of health workers, and enhance peer learning.

International Support for Ghana’s Health System

Dong Hyun Lee, Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), expressed hope that the initiative would contribute to the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s health system [1]. Ghana’s efforts align with Sustainable Development Goal 3, which prioritizes promoting equitable health outcomes and universal health coverage [2].

The UN in Ghana is actively working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023-2025), extended by the Government of Ghana for an additional year [4]. This framework focuses on inclusive economic transformation, equitable access to social services, and sustainable peace and security.