New Strategies Implemented to Combat Surge in Maternal Deaths in Ashanti Region
The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate has raised alarm over the significant increase in maternal deaths, with a staggering 232 deaths per 100,000 live births recorded in the first half of 2025. This marks a sharp rise from 158 in 2024 and 144 in 2023, surpassing the national target of 125 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
During the 2025 Half-Year Performance Review of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) in Kumasi, Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, the Regional Health Director, attributed this concerning trend to uncoordinated referrals and inadequate capacity at peripheral health facilities.
To address this pressing issue, the Directorate, in collaboration with the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and with support from UNICEF, has initiated a comprehensive plan to bolster Primary Health Care (PHC), improve referral systems for prompt management of maternal complications, and enhance the capacity of frontline facilities to handle emergencies.
Under the theme “Strengthening Primary Health Care through Networks of Practice towards Universal Health Coverage: The Role of Stakeholders,” Dr. Adomako-Boateng emphasized the need for local authorities and development partners to provide health facilities with accommodation, logistics, and equipment to combat the escalating maternal deaths, highlighting that the well-being of mothers should be a collective priority.
Despite this setback, the review showcased notable achievements, including a 0% under-five malaria fatality rate for three consecutive half-year periods.
Collaborative Efforts to Enhance Healthcare Delivery
Dr. Paa Kwasi Baidoo, CEO of KATH, reiterated the hospital’s dedication to working hand in hand with the Regional Health Directorate to enhance healthcare delivery. He emphasized that the review not only evaluates performance metrics but also reaffirms the shared responsibility in safeguarding public health. Dr. Baidoo called for increased collaboration among stakeholders and assured KATH’s continuous support for strategic interventions aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates and improving the quality of healthcare services in the Ashanti Region.
