Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has disclosed that 986 pregnant women died in Ghana in 2024, with the country's maternal mortality ratio standing at 235 deaths per 100,000 live births.

She described maternal mortality as a major public health challenge, stressing that no woman should lose her life while giving birth and reaffirming the government's commitment to reducing preventable maternal deaths.

Dr Ayensu-Danquah made the disclosure during the Maternal Mortality Action and Response Programme tour in Accra on Thursday, August 6, 2026.

She explained that the programme is aimed at assessing the quality of maternal healthcare services across the country, identifying gaps in the health system and developing interventions to improve outcomes for mothers.

"In 2024, 986 pregnant women died," she indicated, adding that the figures underscore the need for sustained efforts to strengthen maternal healthcare services.

Ghana seeks to slash maternal death by 20% by end of 2026 - Health Ministry

Dr Ayensu-Danquah emphasised the importance of strengthening primary healthcare, noting that well-equipped health centres are essential for the early detection of high-risk pregnancies and the timely referral of patients for specialist care.

She said improving primary healthcare infrastructure and services would significantly contribute to reducing maternal deaths by ensuring expectant mothers receive quality care throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

Dr Ayensu-Danquah also announced that the government would address infrastructure and equipment challenges at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital as part of broader efforts to improve maternal healthcare delivery.

According to her, the planned interventions form part of the government's wider strategy to enhance maternal health services and ensure better outcomes for mothers and newborns across the country.

She reiterated that safeguarding the lives of pregnant women remains a national priority and called for continued collaboration among healthcare professionals, development partners and stakeholders to tackle preventable maternal deaths.

MRA/BAI

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