Ghana's Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has disclosed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government inherited a fleet of uninsured and non-functional ambulances. According to the Minister, the ambulances were subsequently insured in 2025 by the incumbent government. This revelation comes amidst concerns about the operational status of Ghana's ambulance fleet. The Minister made the statement while addressing the media.
Minister Akandoh noted that upon assuming office, many ambulances were grounded and not functional. He stated that as of now, over 200 ambulances are functioning, with plans to add brand new ones, including 100 vehicles. Although a decision on the new vehicles has not been finalized, the Minister emphasized the importance of replacing faulty ambulances to ensure a robust healthcare system.
The Minister's comments are corroborated by previous concerns raised about the ambulance fleet's operational status. In 2024, Minister Akandoh revealed that out of 307 ambulances imported and commissioned by President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2020, 91 were non-operational. Specifically, 79 ambulances had completely broken down, while 12 were involved in accidents.
The National Ambulance Service faces significant funding challenges, which affect its ability to maintain an operational fleet. In 2022, the service recorded over 41,000 cases, while in 2023, they had recorded 27,000 cases by the time officials appeared before Parliament. The service received only GH¢20 million out of an allocation of approximately GH¢67 million.
The Health Minister's latest statement indicates that the government is working to strengthen the ambulance fleet. The possible addition of 100 new vehicles aims to address the existing gaps in emergency medical services. Minister Akandoh emphasized that governance is a continuum and that building on existing systems is crucial.
The NDC government's efforts to address the ambulance fleet's challenges are ongoing. Minister Akandoh's predecessor had raised concerns about the fleet's status, highlighting the need for a comprehensive overhaul. The current government's initiatives aim to improve the National Ambulance Service's capacity to respond to emergency situations.
The government's plans to augment the ambulance fleet are expected to enhance emergency medical services in Ghana. With over 200 functional ambulances currently in operation, the addition of new vehicles will help address the existing gaps in service delivery. The Health Minister's assurance that the government is working to strengthen the ambulance fleet is a positive development for Ghana's healthcare sector.
Key points
- The NDC government inherited a fleet of uninsured and non-functional ambulances.
- Over 200 ambulances are currently functional, with plans to add 100 new vehicles.
- The National Ambulance Service faces significant funding challenges, affecting its ability to maintain an operational fleet.
