By Nadia Ntiamoah
The healthcare system in Ghana is poised to take a major leap in its immunization strategy following the approval of the country’s application for the Hepatitis B birth dose vaccine by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI).
The vaccine is expected to arrive by September 2025 and will be rolled out to newborns as a preventive measure against early transmission of the virus.
This approval, along with that of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s public health efforts to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases.
The Hepatitis B birth dose is particularly critical in preventing mother-to-child transmission, which accounts for a significant portion of chronic infections in the country.
According to the Ministry of Health, an estimated 2.8 million Ghanaians are currently living with Hepatitis B, with roughly 14,000 deaths recorded annually due to complications from the virus.
The disease burden disproportionately affects adults aged 30 to 54, who account for half of chronic Hepatitis B and C infections, while children under 18 make up 12% of the affected population.
The inclusion of the Hepatitis B birth dose into Ghana’s routine immunization schedule will enhance early childhood protection and align the country with global best practices.
The vaccine’s introduction also represents a crucial step in Ghana’s preparation to transition from GAVI support by 2030, a goal that signals the country’s journey toward full self-financing of its immunization programs.
GAVI CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar, during a media interaction, commended Ghana’s consistent progress in immunization coverage.
“The country has maintained DPT1 and DPT3 coverage rates above 95% and introduced 13 antigens into its routine program. We are pleased to support Ghana’s rollout of the Hepatitis B birth dose and HPV vaccine,” she stated, emphasizing the decision by GAVI’s independent review committee to approve the application.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh described the development as a crucial milestone in strengthening the country’s disease prevention framework.
“We are particularly excited to introduce these vaccines. The Hepatitis B birth dose will address chronic liver disease while the HPV vaccine will tackle cervical cancer — two major public health threats,” he said.
The minister also outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to prepare for the post-GAVI era, highlighting the removal of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) cap and a 13% increase in the 2025 health budget.
Plans are underway to work with the Ministry of Finance to establish earmarked budget lines specifically for vaccines.
“This is a sign of national growth, and we welcome it. However, we will continue to rely on GAVI’s technical support and advocacy to ensure the sustainability of these health gains,” Akandoh added.
The rollout of the new vaccines is expected to not only enhance the protection of vulnerable populations but also reinforce Ghana’s standing as a leader in vaccine adoption and health system strengthening within sub-Saharan Africa.
