The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, on Tuesday, 14th October 2025, announced that the government has put in place new measures to simplify the shipping and clearing of medical equipment and supplies in the country. According to him, the shipment of these items had long posed challenges for charitable organizations, saying the ministry is implementing solutions to ease the process. He disclosed that a special desk has been created at the ministry to assist and facilitate the process for philanthropists, institutions, and NGOs in this direction.
Mr. Akandoh made this announcement when he met the Operation Walk team from Syracuse, New York, at the St. Joseph Catholic Hospital in Koforidua. The 49-member health professional team, comprising surgeons, nurses, anaesthesiologists, physician specialists, physiotherapists, and volunteers, is at the hospital to undertake a seven-day free surgery for people with vascular necrosis of the hip and knee, especially those with sickle cell disease.
Accompanied by the Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Mr. Akandoh lauded the visiting team for its selfless service to Ghana, noting that the effort aligns with the government’s vision to promote medical tourism and enhance access to specialized healthcare in Ghana.
The Minister expressed satisfaction with the outreach, describing it as a major relief for Ghanaians who could not otherwise afford the cost of such surgeries. He also announced that the government would collaborate with Operation Walk to extend similar medical interventions to other parts of the country.
The government will continue to collaborate with partner countries, institutions, and individuals to improve quality and make healthcare delivery affordable and accessible for the people.
Mr. Akandoh also commended the St. Joseph Hospital for its pivotal role in healthcare delivery, not only in orthopedic care but also in other general services.
The Clinical Director and Leader of the Operation Walk – New York team, Dr. Kimberly Murray, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and partnership from the hospital. She noted that the team will provide joint replacement surgeries for about 100 patients during this week-long outreach program.
She highlighted challenges in transporting medical supplies into the country but reaffirmed the team’s commitment to continue working in Ghana and strengthening partnerships to sustain the program.