Launched on April 29, 2025, by President John Dramani Mahama, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund – affectionately known as Mahama Cares – represents a transformative leap in tackling Ghana’s rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The initiative establishes a dedicated financial pool to cover specialist treatments and medications for chronic conditions not fully supported by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), including cancers, kidney failure (such as dialysis), cardiovascular diseases, stroke, diabetes, hypertension and sickle cell disease.
What makes Mahama Cares a true game changer is its strong commitment to healthcare equity. By uncapping the NHIS levy, the fund unlocks substantial resources to prevent financial devastation for families confronting overwhelming medical bills, ensuring that no Ghanaian has to choose between health and economic stability. President Mahama himself led by example by pledging six months of his presidential salary to kickstart the fund and appealing to corporate Ghana for contributions through corporate social responsibility, fostering a collaborative model that leverages public-private partnerships.
A taskforce inaugurated in March 2025 is working to develop a robust legal framework to enshrine the fund as a statutory entity, ensuring sustainable, nationwide access to early screening and targeted care, particularly in underserved communities.
Leading this initiative is Ms. Oboubia Darko-Opoku, whose exceptional leadership and deep expertise in administration is bringing efficiency, vision and credibility to the fund. Her strategic foresight and dedication to operational excellence ensure that Mahama Cares is not only well-managed but poised for long-term impact.
In a country where NCDs account for a growing share of mortality and economic strain, Mahama Cares redefines the approach to healthcare – shifting from reactive to proactive, and embodying both compassion and resilience. As President Mahama described it, this is more than a programme; it is a beacon of hope, with the potential to avert a dialysis crisis and build a more inclusive, sustainable health system for generations to come.
Looking forward to seeing more contributions and donations as well as support for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.
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Joyce Bawa Mogtari is a private legal practitioner who also served as a Special Aide for former President John Dramani Mahama during his time in opposition. She currently serves as a Special Presidential Adviser.
