President John Dramani Mahama has launched the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly branded as “Mahama Cares,” pledging six months of his salary to kick-start the initiative.
The official launch ceremony was held earlier today, April 29, 2025, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), drawing widespread attention and support from healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public.
The Mahama Cares initiative is designed to enhance access to quality medical care for underserved and vulnerable communities across the country. With a focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and capacity, the fund aims to support the procurement of essential medical equipment, improve patient care delivery, and provide training for health professionals.
In his keynote address, Mr. Mahama emphasised the urgent need for collective responsibility in rebuilding the country’s healthcare system, especially in light of recent strains on public health resources. He described the Ghana Medical Trust Fund as a symbol of shared responsibility and national solidarity.
“The Ghana Medical Trust Fund represents our shared commitment to ensuring that no Ghanaian is left behind when it comes to health,” Mr. Mahama said.
“I am donating six months of my salary to show that this is not just a policy commitment, but a personal one.”
The President also called on individuals, corporate entities, and the Ghanaian diaspora to support the fund through donations and partnerships. He stressed that healthcare should not be a privilege for a few but a guaranteed right for every citizen, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
Healthcare stakeholders present at the launch described Mahama Cares as a “timely and strategic intervention,” especially at a time when many public healthcare facilities are struggling with limited resources and high patient loads. They lauded Mr. Mahama’s leadership and urged other influential figures to follow his example.
The Ghana Medical Trust Fund will operate transparently, with oversight structures to ensure funds are properly allocated to areas of greatest need. According to programme coordinators, early beneficiaries of the fund will include district hospitals and clinics in rural areas, where shortages of medical staff and equipment remain a persistent challenge.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
