In a collaborative effort, Ghana’s Ministry of Health (MoH) has unveiled the National Infection Prevention and Control Strategy in Accra. Scheduled for implementation from 2024 to 2028, the strategy aims to mitigate Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), ultimately enhancing patient safety and health outcomes.

Key objectives of the strategy include establishing an integrated Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) program, developing national IPC guidelines, enhancing education and training in IPC, implementing surveillance systems for HAIs and AMR, and monitoring IPC practices with feedback mechanisms.

Hon. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, Minister for Health, stressed the critical importance of preventing infections in healthcare facilities to ensure quality care, patient safety, and health security. He highlighted measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic to prioritize IPC, including behavioral strategies, policy adjustments, and updates to standards and training programs.

Despite challenges, including the absence of a focal point for IPC within the Ministry, Agyeman-Manu reaffirmed the commitment of stakeholders to improving IPC in Ghana.

Alhaji Hafiz Adam, Chief Director of the ministry, emphasized that the strategy aligns with WHO IPC Core Components and Minimum Requirements and aims to contribute to Ghana’s national health vision of achieving a healthy population for development.

Prof. Francis Chisaka Kasolo, WHO representative to Ghana, commended the initiative, noting that IPC practices prevent harm to patients and health workers while reducing healthcare costs. He expressed confidence in the strategy’s implementation, emphasizing the involvement of all stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society organizations, to strengthen Ghana’s capacity in infection prevention and control.

Prof. Kasolo reiterated WHO’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s health system, ensuring that health facilities serve as centers of excellence, providing essential services in a secure environment.