The Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights (ARHR) has reported four major gaps in the 2026 National Budget allocations for the health sector.

The organisation noted that although the Budget shows increased financing, structural and implementation challenges could undermine its effectiveness.

Nana Nyarko Konadu, Programme Officer – Policy and Budget Advocacy, ARHR, made the observation during a virtual media briefing.

She cited the absence of a clear plan for the free sanitary pad initiative, neglect of mental health infrastructure, persistent unemployment among health professionals, and unclear progress on Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound construction as critical concerns.

Konadu explained that the government’s allocation for the sanitary pad initiative lacks an implementation framework, distribution timelines, coordination channels among ministries, and provisions for out-of-school adolescents.

“Without a costed, time-bound plan, the intervention risks becoming a policy promise without measurable impact,” she said, urging the government to publish a comprehensive strategy to ensure sustainability and accountability.

Konadu observed that mental health infrastructure continued to be neglected, with no funds allocated for new facilities or expansion of existing ones, despite rising demand.

She said that recruitment, fair compensation, and retention strategies must be prioritised to safeguard healthcare delivery and prevent loss of skilled personnel.

Konadu also called for clarity on the government’s 2025 commitment to construct two CHPS compounds per district using District Assemblies Common Fund resources, noting that no public updates had been issued on progress, funding, or timelines.

“While the 2026 Budget reflects commendable momentum in health-sector financing, it is imperative to address these four identified deficiencies to propel Ghana toward equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all,” she stated.