President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, has officially launched the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as Mahama Cares, a major health initiative designed to provide financial assistance to Ghanaians suffering from chronic and life-threatening illnesses.
The launch ceremony, held at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in Accra, brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, patients, and members of the public to witness the unveiling of the Fund, which aims to support those battling serious conditions such as kidney failure, cancer, and heart disease.
In a strong show of personal commitment, President Mahama announced a donation of his six months’ salary to support the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, emphasizing the urgency of action and compassion in addressing the growing burden of chronic diseases across the country.
“I have a personal connection to non-communicable diseases,” Mahama stated, sharing heartfelt stories of losing both parents, a stepmother, and close associates to conditions like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes.
One particularly moving story involved a longtime political ally from Bole Bamboi who died of kidney failure after being forced to sell his belongings and relocate his family just to access regular dialysis in Kumasi.
“These are not statistics—we are talking about real lives, people we love. No Ghanaian should be denied life-saving treatment simply because they can’t afford it,” Mahama said. “This Fund is about touching lives and restoring hope.”
He added that the Mahama Cares initiative will be integrated into a broader Primary Health Care Project, soon to be launched, which aims to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure, especially in underserved areas.
The Ghana Medical Trust Fund is expected to serve as a lifeline for many families burdened by the cost of medical treatment, offering a more equitable approach to healthcare financing.
“This is not charity—it is our duty as a nation to ensure that every Ghanaian has a fair chance at life,” Mahama concluded.
