WHO Seeks Asantehene’s Influence towards Child Immunisation, Maternal Care, HIV Stigma
The World Health Organisation has sought the assistance of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, in promoting Universal Health Coverage and health security in Ghana.
During a courtesy visit on April 22, 2026, the WHO Country Director for Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka, outlined three key health areas in need of the support of the Asantehene.
Maternal Health
Dr Braka requested Otumfuo to leverage his influence to encourage traditional leaders to engage their communities in addressing maternal deaths.
“We are looking at encouraging early registration for antenatal care to address any issues early. We also want the traditional institutions to promote institutional deliveries and promote blood donations.”
She added that men must be encouraged to support women during pregnancy and in the use of contraceptives.
Ending HIV and Mental Health Stigma
The second request focused on stigma with Mental Health and HIV.
From her observation, people living with HIV and mental health conditions continue to face discrimination.
“People who have HIV still struggle with stigma. It is not just for HIV but also for mental health. Everyone deserves to be cared for. Health is a basic human right,” she stated.
“It doesn’t matter that you have HIV or a mental health condition; we need to educate the public to be sensitive and give support to the people.”
Sustaining Child Vaccination Beyond GAVI
Dr Braka said Ghana is at a crossroads with child immunisation as the country would wean from the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) support in 2030.
“Every child in Ghana is expected to receive a range of vaccines early in childhood. It is a cost-effective way to prevent diseases,” she said.
“GAVI has contributed a lot to introducing new vaccines and also to sustaining routine programmes. We have to mobilise domestic resources.”
She asked Otumfuo to help find innovative ways to finance the immunisation programme, including involving the private sector.
“We would like to think of innovative ways of financing the immunisation programme, such as involvement of the private sector, so we don’t interrupt these helpful programmes, causing improvement in livelihood. We are here to find how you can galvanise the private sector to contribute to sustained immunisation services in Ghana.”
His Majesty welcomed the WHO and its mission while agreeing to offer his support.
He indicated that budgetary allocation isn’t enough, though the government was doing its best.
“Going through what you want me to do, I will be more than happy to support…I am prepared to use my Foundation.”
On weaning from GAVi support, Otumfuo noted that Ghana must be responsible for the health of its people.
“2030 is just around the corner. We can’t do everything in four years but we still have to make the effort. The responsibility is on us also to be able to come up with programmes and funding sources.”
