In the lead-up to the 2025 elections, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has outlined a comprehensive plan to enhance mental healthcare in Ghana, signifying a commitment to addressing mental health issues that have been exacerbated in recent years. The NDC aims to fully integrate mental health services into Primary Health Care, a move believed to significantly reduce mental health-related complications. Plans include establishing a new mental health hospital in the Northern sector and refurbishing existing facilities. The Accra and Pantang Psychiatric Hospitals will also be resourced to improve their ability to offer comprehensive mental healthcare. The proposed initiatives also emphasize the importance of reviewing existing laws governing mental health to facilitate the recruitment and training of Community Mental Health Officers (CMHOs). These officers will play a significant role in ensuring mental health services are accessible at the district level, supported by the establishment of hotlines for immediate e-counseling.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC presidential candidate, outlined these ambitious plans within the party’s 2024 manifesto titled “Resetting Ghana: Jobs, Accountability, and Prosperity.” Under the section focusing on “Investing in People for Inclusive Growth,” Mahama advocates for the integration of mental health considerations into broader health strategies. This initiative is a recognition of the critical link between mental health and overall well-being and aims to address the service shortfalls currently experienced in the country. By elevating mental healthcare within the health system, the NDC proposes to reduce stigma associated with mental health issues and promote a better understanding of mental health rights, thereby encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of discrimination.
In addition to enhancing mental healthcare, the NDC plans to bolster the development of herbal, traditional, and alternative medicine. Mahama stresses the need to advance research in these fields, advocating for public universities to create dedicated research departments for herbal medicine. This initiative seeks to stimulate innovation and incorporate research-backed herbal practices into patient management, especially within district hospitals. To foster collaboration, the NDC plans to establish partnerships between local and international herbal research institutions and the pharmaceutical industry, aimed at optimizing diagnostics and increasing the production capacity of herbal medicines. It also intends to review existing legislation to improve regulatory oversight of herbal products and clinical trials, ensuring better safety and efficacy standards across the board.
Addressing public health emergencies and pandemic preparedness forms another priority in the NDC’s agenda. Mahama has articulated the need for a strategic framework that not only manages public health emergencies but also effectively mitigates their impact on the population. The government plans to develop an integrated emergency and pandemic preparedness plan, drawing on resources and technical expertise from various stakeholders to put in place mechanisms capable of efficiently handling epidemics and pandemics. This commitment highlights the importance of a cohesive response strategy that can mobilize resources quickly and sustain public health initiatives during crises.
Furthermore, the NDC emphasizes the importance of establishing robust international partnerships to enhance epidemiological surveillance. Mahama’s administration would focus on coordination with international health bodies to ensure Ghana is better prepared for future health crises. By prioritizing the localization of healthcare services, education, and research, the NDC aims to bring quality health services closer to communities. This approach not only broadens access to healthcare but also emphasizes the importance of health education as a tool for prevention and awareness.
Ultimately, the NDC’s manifesto is a call to action for Ghanaians to support Mahama and his parliamentary candidates to implement these vital reforms. The proposed policies are designed not only to restore confidence in the healthcare system but also to enhance the integrity and accountability of healthcare delivery in Ghana. By focusing on mental health, herbal medicine, and public health preparedness, the NDC showcases a comprehensive approach to health issues, emphasizing the human aspect of healthcare reform. In order to achieve these ambitious goals, the party is urging voters to provide the necessary mandate for transformative change in the next government.
