In Ghana, access to quality healthcare in rural areas remains a challenge due to inadequate healthcare infrastructure, long distances to services, and shortages of essential medical equipment and supplies. To help, UNOPS has renewed its partnership with the Ghana Health Service to implement two new projects that will support rural healthcare delivery and tuberculosis testing and management. Both projects are funded by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (the Global Fund).

Focusing on underserved rural areas, UNOPS will support Ghana’s Community-based Health Planning and Services initiative through the procurement, delivery and distribution of essential medical and non-medical equipment to select health facilities. Motorbikes will also be provided to improve the mobility of health workers, enabling them to access hard-to-reach areas. The initiative will help enhance the capacity of local health workers and improve the availability of crucial resources for everyday healthcare needs – including cold chain equipment for vaccines, hospital furniture, patient examination and surgical items, home visit equipment, and more.

"Recognizing the challenges in accessing quality healthcare in rural Ghana, UNOPS – in partnership with the Ghana Health Service and the Global Fund – is proud to provide practical solutions to bridge these gaps," said Silvia Gallo, Director of UNOPS West Africa Multi-country Office.

"Through the procurement and delivery of essential medical equipment and supplies, these initiatives will ensure that crucial resources reach underserved communities, contributing to a healthier future for all," added Silvia Gallo.

Tuberculosis remains a significant public health threat and the second leading cause of death across Ghana. A dedicated second project, also funded by the Global Fund, aims to address this challenge. UNOPS will procure essential laboratory reagents, test kits and consumables for the Ghana Health Service's National Tuberculosis Control Programme, ensuring the continuity of vital tuberculosis testing and prevention services.

Over the last seven years, UNOPS, the Ghana Health Service and the Global Fund have helped to strengthen the quality, coverage and reach of health services across the country. Over $26 million worth of goods have been procured and delivered, including tuberculosis test kits and reagents, HIV rapid diagnostic test kits, vehicles and motorcycles.