The programme which was held from 6th to 10th July 2026 brought together surgeons, anaesthetists and resident doctors from both institutions. The visit was aimed at promoting knowledge exchange, academic collaboration and strengthening professional partnerships in reconstructive and cleft surgery.

The programme commenced with a courtesy call on the Hospital's Medical Director, Dr Frank Owusu Sekyere, followed by lectures and a cleft repair simulation session using silicone models at the NRPSBC Micro Lab. The sessions provided an excellent platform for practical learning and skills enhancement for residents and some specialists.

As part of the mission, 21 patients were screened, out of which 13 successfully underwent cleft surgeries, restoring hope and improving the quality of life for the beneficiaries.

Speaking during the programme, the surgical lead, Dr. Waragbani Promise Pieterson described the mission as the first collaboration between Oregon Health & Science University and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital under the facilitation of Operation Smile International.

He explained that the visit primarily served as a fact-finding mission, providing the visiting team with the opportunity to assess the Centre's facilities and equipment, interact with hospital management, understand the range of cases managed at the Centre, and provide training for residents and specialists in both primary and complex cleft lip and palate repairs.

Dr Pieterson further stated that the mission marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between Oregon Health & Science University and the National Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre. According to him, the collaboration is expected to focus on the management of complex reconstructive cases, specialist training, and the continuous development of resident surgeons throughout their careers. He expressed optimism that the visit will be the foundation of a much broader and impactful partnership in the years ahead.

Also speaking at the programme, Dr Lorri Kathryn Howell, Cleft Surgical Educator from Oregon, noted that Ghana has made significant progress in training surgeons in cleft and craniofacial surgery through its established surgical centres. She explained that repairing cleft lip and palate forms the foundation of cleft surgery and serves as the first step in developing advanced surgical skills.

She commended the commitment of the Centre's residents and specialists and expressed confidence that the partnership would further strengthen cleft care and surgical education in Ghana.

The successful conclusion of the faculty exchange programme underscores the National Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre's commitment to building international partnerships, advancing surgical education, and delivering world-class reconstructive care to patients.

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In collaboration with specialists from Mount Carmel Hospital in Ohio, USA, the medical team successfully implanted pacemakers in all four patients.

We are grateful to the President of the Republic of Ghana, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and all stakeholders whose invaluable support contributed to the installation and commissioning of this state-of-the-art facility.

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The programme which was held from 6th to 10th July 2026 brought together surgeons, anaesthetists and resident doctors from both institutions. The visit was aimed at promoting knowledge exchange, academic collaboration and strengthening professional partnerships in reconstructive and cleft surgery.

The programme commenced with a courtesy call on the Hospital's Medical Director, Dr Frank Owusu Sekyere, followed by lectures and a cleft repair simulation session using silicone models at the NRPSBC Micro Lab. The sessions provided an excellent platform for practical learning and skills enhancement for residents and some specialists.

As part of the mission, 21 patients were screened, out of which 13 successfully underwent cleft surgeries, restoring hope and improving the quality of life for the beneficiaries.

Speaking during the programme, the surgical lead, Dr. Waragbani Promise Pieterson described the mission as the first collaboration between Oregon Health & Science University and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital under the facilitation of Operation Smile International.

He explained that the visit primarily served as a fact-finding mission, providing the visiting team with the opportunity to assess the Centre's facilities and equipment, interact with hospital management, understand the range of cases managed at the Centre, and provide training for residents and specialists in both primary and complex cleft lip and palate repairs.

Dr Pieterson further stated that the mission marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between Oregon Health & Science University and the National Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre. According to him, the collaboration is expected to focus on the management of complex reconstructive cases, specialist training, and the continuous development of resident surgeons throughout their careers.

Also speaking at the programme, Dr Lorri Kathryn Howell, Cleft Surgical Educator from Oregon, noted that Ghana has made significant progress in training surgeons in cleft and craniofacial surgery through its established surgical centres. She explained that repairing cleft lip and palate forms the foundation of cleft surgery and serves as the first step in developing advanced surgical skills.

She commended the commitment of the Centre's residents and specialists and expressed confidence that the partnership would further strengthen cleft care and surgical education in Ghana.

The successful conclusion of the faculty exchange programme underscores the National Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre's commitment to building international partnerships, advancing surgical education, and delivering world-class reconstructive care to patients.

Read the full story on kbth.gov.gh

The training brought together surgeons from the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS), Plastic Surgery and Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) departments, reflecting the multidisciplinary approach required in complex head and neck reconstruction.

In an interview with Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and Chair of the Norman Rowe International Educational Foundation (NRIEF), a sub-committee and humanitarian charity of BAOMS, Professor Sunil Sah, explained that the programme focused on advanced reconstruction of the head and neck region using microsurgical techniques.

According to Professor Sah, the procedure represents a major advancement in reconstructive surgery. Rather than relying primarily on artificial implants such as metal plates to replace bones and tissues removed following trauma or cancer surgery, surgeons are trained to reconstruct affected areas using the patient's own bone, blood vessels and soft tissue taken from other parts of the body.

He noted that the multidisciplinary nature of the procedure necessitated the participation of surgeons from the Dental, Plastic Surgery and ENT departments, who work closely together in the management of complex head and neck cases.

Professor Sah said participants received training in several advanced procedures, including Selective Neck Dissection, Maxillectomy and Maxillary Reconstruction, Radial Forearm Free Flap Reconstruction, Lip Split Mandibular Osteotomy, among other specialised reconstructive techniques.

Explaining why Korle Bu was selected to host the programme, he indicated the partnership was fostered by the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof Alfred Yawson, and that the hospital's size, specialist workforce and infrastructure made it the ideal institution to introduce the initiative in the region.

"This is the largest teaching hospital in West Africa with the manpower and infrastructure needed to establish this service," he said, adding that starting with a larger institution would provide a stronger foundation for the programme.

He acknowledged that the procedures are expensive to establish but expressed optimism that support from the Norman Rowe International Educational Foundation (NRIEF) would help reduce treatment costs for patients.

Prof. Sah further noted that although the training marked an important step, some Ghanaian surgeons would require additional specialised training in countries such as South Africa, India, China and parts of Europe to further develop their expertise.

Speaking to his colleague, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and General Secretary of NRIEF, Mr. Michael Ho, described the initiative as a significant milestone for maxillofacial surgery in Ghana and across Africa. He said introducing advanced reconstructive surgery would enhance the services offered by KBTH, attract referrals from neighbouring countries and reduce the need for African patients to travel outside the continent for specialised treatment.

Mr. Ho explained that while the Foundation would continue to provide technical support, the successful establishment of the service would require strong commitment from both the Hospital and the College of Health Sciences, particularly in providing the initial investment, infrastructure and institutional support needed to sustain the programme.

He was confident that the Medical and Dental Schools of the College of Health Sciences could position themselves as a hub for international surgical collaborations. According to him, once the programme becomes fully established in the next five years, it has the potential to generate significant revenue for both the hospital and the country through increased regional referrals.

The visiting team also donated specialised surgical equipment, including scalpels, bone saws and other essential instruments, to support training and patient care.

Both Professor Sah and Mr. Ho expressed the shared vision of ensuring that Ghanaians have access to world-class reconstructive healthcare within the country, reducing the need for overseas treatment while establishing Ghana as a regional centre of excellence in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery.

A Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and former Head of the Dental Department, Dr. Matthew Owusu Boamah, described the training as a laudable initiative that would significantly enhance specialist surgical care at the hospital. He noted that the Hospital has enthusiastic resident doctors who are eager to learn the advanced reconstructive surgical techniques being introduced. Dr. Boamah expressed optimism that by the next phase of the workshop, scheduled for January 2027, participants would have built on the knowledge gained and the programme would continue to achieve successful outcomes.

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Speaking on Thursday, 9 July 2026, at the commissioning of the Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory at the National Cardiothoracic Centre of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital by the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, the President disclosed that the first batch of trainees had already commenced studies at Korle Bu's nursing training facility. The nurses are undergoing specialised training in critical care disciplines, including nephrology, cardiovascular care and oncology, to address the growing burden of NCDs across the country.

President Mahama said a second training centre would be established at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital before the graduates are deployed to specialised NCD treatment centres nationwide.

He said the programme forms part of the expanded mandate of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), which now extends beyond supporting patients' treatment to investing in specialised healthcare infrastructure, modern medical equipment and skilled personnel needed to deliver quality care.

President Mahama stressed that advanced medical equipment alone could not improve health outcomes without adequately trained healthcare professionals to operate and manage it effectively.

To complement the investment in specialised healthcare, he also announced plans to establish the Ghana Medical Equipment Services Limited, a subsidiary of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, to oversee the maintenance, performance monitoring and replacement of specialised medical equipment across the country.

The President said the decision was informed by lessons from previous government investments, recalling that medical equipment worth about US$250 million installed in regional and teaching hospitals had deteriorated over the years because of inadequate maintenance.

"This is not a sustainable model," he said, adding that the new company would help protect public investment in healthcare infrastructure while ensuring that specialised equipment remains functional to support quality patient care.

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The commissioning follows the destruction of the Centre's previous Cath Lab by fire in March 2025, which disrupted critical cardiac services. Rebuilt through the support of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares), the new facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art Siemens Biplane imaging system that will significantly enhance the diagnosis and treatment of congenital and acquired heart diseases, complex vascular conditions and selected neurovascular emergencies.

In his address, President Mahama described the facility as part of a broader national strategy to strengthen Ghana's response to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). He explained that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund has evolved beyond financing patient care to supporting specialist infrastructure, medical equipment, research and human resource development.

The President announced that Government has committed GH¢2.3 billion to the expanded mandate of the Trust Fund and disclosed plans to establish the Ghana Medical Equipment Services Limited to ensure the preventive maintenance and lifecycle management of specialised medical equipment across the country.

He also announced the training of specialised nurses in critical care disciplines, including cardiovascular care, nephrology and oncology, with Cabinet approving the recruitment and training of 500 specialised nurses to support non-communicable disease services nationwide.

The Minister for Health, Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, described the commissioning as the practical translation of government policy into quality healthcare delivery. He noted that the facility will improve access to timely diagnosis and specialised interventions for cardiovascular diseases, stroke and other chronic conditions while reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.

He stressed that specialised healthcare requires more than sophisticated equipment, emphasising the importance of trained professionals, sustainable financing, effective maintenance systems and strong collaboration among the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and other stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of the facility.

Chief Executive of KBTH, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, described the commissioning as a landmark moment in the Hospital's history and a major investment in hope, healing and life.

"The Ghana Medical Trust Fund has been a true game changer for beneficiary patients and public sector hospitals across the country. Its interventions have been timely and strategic, with many patients already benefiting from life-saving support here at Korle Bu," he said.

Dr. Adam revealed that, beyond the newly commissioned Cath Lab, the Trust Fund is in the process of procuring additional specialised equipment for the Hospital, including a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner, Linear Accelerator, Computed Tomography (CT) scanner and Mammography machine. These investments, he noted, will significantly strengthen diagnostic and treatment services at Korle Bu.

Director of the National Cardiothoracic Center Dr. Kow Entsua Mensah thanked the President, the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, the leadership of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and all partners whose collective efforts made the reconstruction possible.

He noted that since its establishment in 1989, the National Cardiothoracic Centre had become one of West Africa's leading centres for cardiovascular care, performing approximately 600 cardiac, thoracic and vascular surgeries annually while recording over 12,000 outpatient visits each year.

Dr. Mensah disclosed that the previous Cath Lab, commissioned in 2017, facilitated more than 1,500 successful catheterisation procedures before it was destroyed by fire. He assured Government that the Centre would maintain the new facility to the highest standards while continuing to deliver quality clinical care, research and specialist training.

Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Madam Obuobia Darko-Opoku, described the reconstructed Cath Lab as a symbol of Ghana's resilience and commitment to protecting lives. She explained that the project was designed not simply to replace what had been lost but to deliver a technologically superior facility with expanded capacity to meet present and future healthcare needs.

She announced that the new laboratory will immediately support a landmark national programme undertaken in partnership with the National Cardiothoracic Centre, specialist cardiologists from Mount Sinai Hospital in the United States, the Mount Sinai Foundation and Africa World Airlines, to provide complex cardiac implantable electronic device procedures for an initial 30 patients selected from across Ghana.

Patients from northern Ghana will be transported to Accra through the support of Africa World Airlines, demonstrating a coordinated national effort to ensure equitable access to specialised cardiac care.

The new Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory is expected to significantly strengthen Ghana's capacity to provide advanced cardiovascular diagnosis and treatment, support specialist training and research, and improve access to timely, high-quality cardiac care for patients across the country.

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The donation was split into two impactful initiatives: GH¢48,000 was used to purchase fifteen (15) 50-inch television sets, which have now been installed across various wards to provide comfort and entertainment for patients during their recovery, while GH¢52,000 has been reserved to assist patients who struggle to pay their medical bills.

According to Professor J. E. Mensah, Director of the facility, the philanthropist is a strong Christian who believes that service to man is service to God.

Prof Mensah formally received the donation on behalf of the Chief Executive and the entire staff of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

He expressed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of both patients and staff and noted that the television sets would help ease the stress of hospitalisation, while the financial support fund would ensure that no patient is denied care due to financial hardship.

This act of compassion underscores the importance of community support in healthcare. By combining comfort with financial assistance, the anonymous donor has not only improved the quality of life for patients but also strengthened the facility's mission to deliver care with dignity and empathy.

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At a high-level engagement with research coordinators and departmental heads, the hospital's leadership underscored the importance of fostering a robust research culture that translates scientific inquiry into tangible improvements in clinical practice.

The Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, noted that as Ghana's premier teaching hospital, Korle Bu bears a unique responsibility to lead the way in medical research that addresses the country's most pressing health challenges.

"Research is not an optional activity; it is the foundation upon which we build better treatments, train the next generation of clinicians, and earn the trust of the communities we serve," he stated.

The Director of Medical Affairs, Dr. Frank Owusu-Sekyere, highlighted several ongoing studies across departments including cardiology, nephrology, oncology, and infectious diseases. He noted that many of these studies are conducted in partnership with international institutions, bringing global expertise to bear on local health priorities.

He further emphasised the need for ethical rigour, noting that all research activities at the hospital are subject to review by the Institutional Research Board to ensure compliance with national and international standards.

The hospital also announced plans to establish a dedicated Research Directorate to coordinate and strengthen research activities across all clinical departments, provide mentorship to early-career researchers, and facilitate access to research funding.

This renewed focus on research comes at a time when Ghana's health sector is increasingly looking to home-grown evidence to guide policy decisions and clinical protocols, positioning Korle Bu at the forefront of medical innovation in West Africa.

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As the nation's largest teaching hospital, Korle Bu serves as the primary clinical training site for the University of Ghana Medical School and several other health training institutions, providing students with exposure to a wide spectrum of medical conditions and procedures.

The Director of Medical Affairs, Dr. Frank Owusu-Sekyere, noted that clinical teaching is woven into the daily operations of every department, with consultants and senior specialists dedicating significant time to mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals.

"Every patient interaction is a teaching moment. Our consultants are not just clinicians; they are educators who shape the doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who will serve communities across Ghana and beyond," he said.

The hospital's clinical teaching programme spans multiple disciplines including internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, psychiatry, and all major specialties. Trainees rotate through wards, outpatient clinics, theatres, and emergency settings, gaining practical experience under close supervision.

Recent enhancements to the programme include the introduction of simulation-based training sessions, multidisciplinary case discussions, and structured bedside teaching rounds designed to strengthen clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.

Feedback from trainees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing their clinical rotations at Korle Bu as transformative experiences that prepared them for independent practice.

The hospital's leadership reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of clinical education, recognising that investment in training today ensures better healthcare outcomes for generations to come.

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The programme commenced with remarks from the Director of Medical Affairs, Dr. Frank Owusu-Sekyere, who expressed appreciation to the team and conveyed management's satisfaction with the reconstitution of the board.

He emphasised that while there is always a valid reason to undertake research, it is essential that all studies are conducted in strict accordance with established standards and approved protocols to ensure ethical compliance, quality, and credibility of research findings.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Professor George Obeng Agyei, noted that since the establishment of the committee, it has experienced steady growth in the number of research submissions received. He indicated that the committee continues to review a wide range of research proposals, many of which are institution-based studies.

However, he observed that some protocols have been rejected because investigators did not demonstrate the requisite qualifications or adequate training needed to conduct the proposed research.

Prof. Agyei expressed hope for an increase in high-quality intervention studies, improved conduct of clinical trials, and stronger institutional support to enhance research capacity while promoting adherence to ethical and scientific standards.

In her remarks, Madam Anita Ago Asare, a member of the committee, encouraged members to remain committed to attending meetings on scheduled dates to ensure active participation in the board's activities. She expressed the hope that, in the coming years, the Research Board would have a dedicated Director to provide further leadership and strengthen its operations.

Dr. Roberta Lamptey encouraged members to embrace the principle that has guided her throughout the years: "Excellence in everything, especially in the details." She noted that this principle should serve as a foundation for all research activities and professional endeavours.

The other committee members include Dr. Daniel Ankrah from the University of Cape Coast; and, from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Adwoa Afrane, Dr. Mabel Banson, Dr. Jerry Coleman, Dr. R.N.A. Taylor Dawson, Dr. Damoah, Dr. Ernest Adjepong-Tandoh, Dr. Geoffrey Ofori Birikorang, Mr. Walter A. Dorcoo, Mr. Kwame Gyamfi, Dr. Solomon Atindama, Dr. Isabella Efua Asamoah, Professor Catherine Segbefia, Dr. Abdul-Latif Adam, Professor Lorna Renner, and Prof. Josephine Akpalu.

Professor B.N.L. Calys-Tagoe and Mr. Okyere Boateng are representatives from the University of Ghana Medical School and the private sector on the committee.

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These pioneering surgeries were performed with the invaluable support and expertise of visiting Indian cardiac surgeon, Dr Shridhar Padagatti, marking the introduction of this advanced myocardial revascularisation technique at the Centre.

This remarkable achievement, realised under the leadership of the Director of the Centre, Dr Kow Entsua-Mensah, reflects the Centre's unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, and the delivery of world-class cardiac care. It also underscores the strength of multidisciplinary collaboration among cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, anaesthetists, perfusionists, nurses, and theatre staff, whose collective expertise continues to advance cardiovascular healthcare in Ghana.

The successful adoption of the OPCAB technique represents a major advancement in the Centre's coronary surgery programme.

By performing coronary artery bypass surgery on a beating heart without the use of a heart-lung machine, the procedure offers potential benefits for selected patients, including reduced complications and faster recovery times. This achievement further reinforces the Centre's position as a leading institution for specialised cardiac care in the region and demonstrates its commitment to expanding access to cutting-edge cardiac surgical services.

The Centre congratulates the entire surgical and clinical team on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to building on this success to further strengthen and broaden access to advanced cardiac care for patients in Ghana and beyond.

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A total of 176 patients were screened, out of which 65 underwent successful cataract surgery, including seven bilateral procedures. An additional 56 patients were referred for further care.

This initiative reflects the Centre's commitment to reducing avoidable blindness and improving access to quality eye care in underserved communities. Patients with active NHIS cards benefited from the programme, making treatment more accessible.

Beyond the numbers, the impact was deeply personal. One elderly woman, overwhelmed with emotion, tearfully expressed gratitude after regaining her sight.

A Senior High School student whose education had been severely affected by cataract described the surgery as "a dream come true," appreciating the opportunity to regain independence.

A palm wine tapper, who feared blindness after witnessing similar outcomes in his family, also benefited after struggling to save for surgery. A hospital cleaner also regained her vision and confidence following successful treatment.

The surgeries were performed by a team of four ophthalmologists and two resident doctors, led by Dr Andrew Elikem Akafo.

Dr Akafo described sight restoration as one of the most fulfilling aspects of his work, noting his satisfaction in seeing patients regain independence.

He thanked the management and staff of Ada East District Government Hospital and acknowledged CBP for their continued support in advancing the Centre's 2026 agenda to reduce avoidable blindness in Ghana.

Following surgery, patients received medications, post-operative counselling, protective eye glasses, and follow-up review appointments to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal outcomes.

For the 65 beneficiaries, the outreach marked not just a medical intervention but the beginning of a new chapter of independence, opportunity, and hope.

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The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to reflect on the successes achieved since the programme's inception. It was agreed that through the intervention, several patients who would otherwise have struggled to afford life-saving and complex treatments received much-needed financial assistance, enabling them to access timely healthcare services.

Discussions also focused on the practical challenges encountered during the pilot phase. Representatives from both the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, led by its Administrator, Mrs. Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, and the hospital's management, led by the Chief Executive, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, openly examined operational bottlenecks, eligibility processes, communication channels, and mechanisms for disbursing support to beneficiaries. Constructive solutions were proposed to address these teething issues and strengthen the programme's effectiveness.

The engagement reaffirmed the shared commitment of both institutions to ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent patients from receiving quality healthcare. With lessons learned from the pilot phase, stakeholders expressed optimism about a full-scale implementation of the programme later in the year, a move expected to expand access to critical medical care for many more patients across the country.

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The initiative formed part of the West African College of Surgeons–Moorfields Glaucoma Training Programme, aimed at building subspecialty capacity and enhancing glaucoma care across the region.

A screening exercise was conducted from 7th to 8th May, during which 23 eligible patients were identified and subsequently underwent successful trabeculectomy, a surgical procedure performed to reduce pressure in the eye and prevent further vision loss.

Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude to the medical team for the opportunity to receive life-changing treatment.

One patient noted that she was unaware of her condition until she came across a social media flyer shared by a friend. After attending the screening exercise, she was diagnosed with glaucoma and successfully underwent surgery.

Another beneficiary, a professional driver, shared that he had been unable to renew his driver's licence due to elevated eye pressure caused by glaucoma. Financial constraints had prevented him from accessing the required surgery. However, after learning about the subsidised programme through a social media flyer, he attended the screening, underwent successful surgery, and expressed relief that he could now proceed with the licence renewal process and continue his livelihood.

The procedures were performed by a team of three trainers and three trainees under the leadership of Dr. Kwaku Oppong Kwarteng, Senior Ophthalmology Specialist, with support from dedicated nursing staff across the Eye Centre.

Post-operatively, patients received medications, counselling on post-surgical care, and follow-up review appointments. Protective eye shields were also provided to minimise light exposure and support recovery.

The initiative highlights the Eye Centre's commitment to expanding access to specialised eye care while addressing the growing burden of glaucoma through patient-centred interventions, training, and regional collaboration.

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Honourable Tufton stated that the Ministry is seeking to establish clinical rotations with Korle Bu. He noted that, as a teaching hospital, Korle Bu is well positioned to support training, and the Ministry is particularly interested in having the Hospital play a key role in building the capacity of its clinical staff.

He added that the proposed partnership would be mutually beneficial, as it would facilitate the exchange of skills and knowledge between Ghana and Jamaica.

The Director of Medical Affairs, Dr Frank Owusu-Sekyere, who represented the Chief Executive, stated that the Hospital was always ready and happy to support the Jamaican Ministry of Health and Wellness.

Dr Owusu-Sekyere noted that Korle Bu's readiness to collaborate with other institutions was an indication that the Hospital was doing something right. "As an institution, we are not substandard," he added.

In discussing the Hospital's workforce, it was noted that nurses form the largest group, with about 4,000 staff, while doctors number approximately 2,000, with administrative staff also numbering about 2,000.

He further outlined some of the services provided by the Hospital and the facilities available to support patient care, training and research.

The Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services, Madam Aimee Akotey, also highlighted that the Directorate conducts remote training sessions via Zoom for other institutions and also benefits from similar arrangements.

She added that nurses receive formal training in colleges, in addition to regular in-service training programmes.

The delegation later toured the Accident and Emergency Department to observe its operations. They also visited the Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence.

The Jamaican delegation included the Regional Director of Health, Ms Deveta McLaren; Director of Nursing Services, Ms Joan Walker Nicholson; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Errol Greene; Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jacqueline Bisasor-McKenzie; Chief Programme Officer, Ms Kadian Birch; Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs Patricia Ingram-Martin; Principal Director of Corporate Services, Ms Sonia Smith; and Policy Director of International Health, Ms Rowena Palmer.

Representing Hospital Management were the Director of Pharmacy, Dr Charles Ofei-Palm; Director of Finance, Mr Emmanuel Coffie; Deputy Director of Human Resource, Madam Juliana Samuel-Mensah; Deputy Director of PPME, Mr Pius Agbeviadey; Deputy Director of Administration and Executive Assistant, Madam Gertrude Kinney; and the Head of Public Relations, Mr Mustapha Salifu.

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Speaking at the hospital's 2025 Annual Performance Review last Thursday, Dr Adam revealed that Korle Bu has carried out several kidney transplants between 2025 and this year, with patients responding positively to treatment outcomes.

He added that the hospital is also performing cornea transplants on a regular basis. However, he expressed concern that the limited availability of donor tissues continues to hinder efforts to scale up transplant services and make them routine.

According to Dr Adam, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, in collaboration with other teaching hospitals, is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Parliament to fast-track legislation that will allow for the harvesting and storage of human tissues for medical use.

He stressed that the passage of such a law would be a significant step towards strengthening Ghana's transplant programme, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for procedures that could otherwise be performed locally.

Dr Adam called on all stakeholders to act with urgency to ensure the bill is passed, noting that many Ghanaians continue to suffer due to limited access to transplant services.

He expressed optimism that once the legislation is enacted, it will bring relief to patients and help realise the vision of making kidney, cornea and other tissue transplants routine procedures not only at Korle Bu but across the country.

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Speaking at the Hospital's 2025 Annual Performance Review held on Thursday 30th April 2026 in Accra, Dr Adam said the initiatives form part of efforts to expand specialist care and respond to evolving healthcare demands.

The introduction of IVF services is expected to significantly improve access to fertility treatment in the country, providing patients with advanced reproductive care locally. The move is anticipated to reduce the need for outbound medical travel while strengthening the hospital's capacity to deliver highly specialised tertiary services. Preparatory work is already underway, with space earmarked within the KML Block and plans in place to equip the facility with the requisite technology. IVF will also provide a strong platform for training the next generation of IVF specialists, while creating opportunities for research into various conditions affecting women who are desirous of fulfilling their biological function of childbearing.

In parallel, the proposed Corporate Clinic will deliver tailored healthcare services to corporate institutions and executive clients. The facility is designed to offer structured, premium medical care, including routine health screening, occupational health services, and expedited access to specialist consultations. According to Dr Adam, the initiative is in response to growing demand from organisations seeking reliable and high-quality healthcare solutions for their workforce.

He noted that both services are at various stages of development and will be operational before the end of the year, marking a significant step in the hospital's ongoing transformation agenda.

The announcement comes amid a broader push by Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to deepen specialised care, improve service delivery, and position itself as a leading centre of medical excellence in Ghana and the wider sub-region.

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The programme brought together key stakeholders in Ghana's health sector, including chief executives of teaching hospitals, representatives from government agencies, and senior management staff. It served as a platform to assess performance, share insights, and align strategies for improving healthcare delivery nationwide.

The Board Chairman of the hospital, Prof. Dr. Dr. (MED) Titus Beyuo emphasised that despite significant progress, public perception often reflects negative patient experiences rather than the hospital's achievements. He called for a "reset agenda" focused on improving clinical processes, enhancing patient experience, removing financial barriers to emergency care, upgrading infrastructure, and prioritizing staff welfare. He urged staff to take ownership of their roles and consistently strive for excellence in patient care.

In his welcome address, Chief Executive Officer of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, highlighted a shared vision among Ghana's teaching hospitals to deliberately project and market their achievements. He acknowledged the hospital's progress but stressed the urgent need to improve public perception by telling its success stories more effectively.

In presenting the hospital's performance report, Dr. Adam outlined key milestones achieved since assuming office in May 2025. These included stabilizing oxygen supply through a public-private partnership, installing modern diagnostic equipment such as digital X-ray and dental imaging machines, and investing GHS 11.3 million in ENT services to reduce outbound medical travel.

He also announced major medical advancements, including the introduction of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services and successful kidney transplant procedures. Additionally, the hospital is collaborating with the Ministry of Health Ghana to establish a sustainable national organ transplantation framework.

Looking ahead, Dr. Adam revealed plans to construct a 500-bed children's hospital. He also highlighted plans to introduce advanced treatments such as plasmapheresis and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) for critically ill patients, positioning the hospital as a leader in specialised care.

Chairing the event, Chief Executive Officer of Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Dr. Eric Kofi Ngyedu underscored the importance of accountability in healthcare leadership. He stressed that leaders must remain answerable to patients first, noting that data integrity and transparency are essential for measuring performance and guiding effective decision-making.

Solidarity messages were delivered by representatives from sister institutions, including the University of Ghana Medical Centre, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Sunyani Teaching Hospital, Ho Teaching Hospital, and the 37 Military Hospital. They reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration and knowledge-sharing, emphasizing that strengthening partnerships among institutions is essential for improving healthcare delivery and advancing Ghana's health system.

As part of the review, various directorates; including Medical, Nursing and Midwifery, Pharmacy, Administration, Human Resources, Finance, and General Services presented detailed reports on their 2025 performance. These presentations highlighted key achievements, operational challenges, measurable outcomes, and strategic priorities for 2026, with staff at all levels contributing to discussions aimed at improving service delivery and institutional effectiveness.

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The four-day meeting, running from Monday 27 April to Thursday 30 April, will showcase the achievements of the CREATE initiative Global Health Research Group on Collaborative Care for Cardiometabolic Diseases in Africa while charting a path for translating research evidence into tangible policy and practice.

Opening the event, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, Chief Executive Officer of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, described the gathering as both a celebration of impactful international collaboration and a critical platform for addressing cardiometabolic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and stroke.

He stressed the urgency of scaling up the dissemination of research findings and urged both public and private sector actors to invest in interventions capable of reducing preventable deaths, particularly among young people. "These conditions are increasingly prevalent and remain a major public health concern in Ghana and across sub-Saharan Africa," he said.

Speaking on behalf of University of Leicester, Prof. Henrietta O'Connor highlighted the growing importance of cross-border partnerships in strengthening health systems. She pointed to CREATE as a proven model, having trained researchers, healthcare providers and community champions across Ghana, Kenya and Mozambique.

She also formally announced the launch of the Diabetes in Sub-Saharan Africa review series published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, describing it as a vital synthesis of global evidence to guide policy and intervention.

"We want to shift thinking from a single project to a sustainable model for equitable global health partnerships," she noted.

From a national standpoint, Prof. Alfred Edwin Yawson of the University of Ghana underscored the growing toll of NCDs, revealing that six of the top ten causes of death in Ghana are linked to such conditions. He commended the CREATE model for empowering patients to take an active role in managing their health beyond clinical settings.

He further highlighted ongoing government initiatives, including the Free Primary Healthcare programme and strengthened national health financing systems, as critical levers for integrating NCD prevention and management into routine care.

The event also spotlighted the role of the World Health Organization in supporting Ghana's Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service. Key interventions include scaling up essential NCD services at the primary healthcare level, strengthening surveillance systems, and deploying digital innovations such as a national NCD tracker and diabetes registry.

The gathering marks a significant step towards aligning global research, national priorities and community-level interventions in tackling one of the most pressing public health challenges of the 21st century.

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The two-day activation exercise, which involved fitting and programming audio processors, concluded successfully, marking a significant milestone in the patients' journey to restored hearing.

The intervention was made possible through the support of Qatar Charity Ghana in collaboration with MED-EL Ghana, who provided free audio processors to five patients with profound hearing loss. These patients had previously undergone cochlear implant surgeries on 16th and 17th March 2026.

The activation and presentation of the devices took place from 20th to 21st April 2026 at the Audiology Centre, where a joint team from MED-EL Ghana and the Centre guided patients and their caregivers on the proper use and maintenance of the equipment.

Mr Francis Dagar, a representative from MED-EL Ghana, took patients through the operational use of the audio processors and educated caregivers on the delicate nature of the devices, stressing the importance of proper handling and care.

He further explained that while the audio processor is essential for hearing, patients would also undergo speech and language therapy, as well as rehabilitation, to support faster and more effective recovery. He encouraged beneficiaries to remain consistent in using the devices to achieve optimal outcomes.

The beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude to MED-EL Ghana and Qatar Charity Ghana for the life-changing support. They described the experience as a renewed sense of hope and a significant step from profound hearing loss towards restored hearing and improved quality of life.

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