By Albert Allotey
Accra, April 17, GNA – The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) says non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are not merely a health issue, but a critical development concern since they undermine human capital, productivity, and the socio-economic wellbeing of the people.
“Today, NCDs account for approximately 45 per cent of all deaths in Ghana, a staggering statistic that signals the need for an urgent, coordinated, and well-financed response,” it stated.
The NDPC made the remark in a statement at a stakeholder meeting on NCDs ahead of the 4th UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and mental health in September 2025.
The meeting was on the theme: “Ghana’s progress on NCDs and mental health from 2018 to 2025; Lessons learnt and key future priorities.” It was organised by the Ghana NCD Alliance.
The NDPC said it was working closely with relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies; and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to integrate NCD priorities into their medium-term development plans.
It said this aligned with both the National NCD Policy and Strategy (2022) and Ghana’s Universal Health Coverage Roadmap.
It stated, “However, we have observed that while these frameworks are robust, implementation remains weak – primarily due to limited financing, fragmented institutional coordination, and community-level awareness and engagement.”
The NDPC said as Ghana prepares to participate at the meeting it was important that the nation comprehensively assess the current situation of NDCs in the country, identify priorities, and prepare a set of commitments that would provide political leadership and adequate financial support.
It expressed its commitment of working collaboratively with all stakeholders to reduce the burden of NCDs and mental health conditions in the country, adding, “Together, we can chart a path towards a healthier, more resilient population and a more inclusive, sustainable future.
“NDPC stands ready to support the scaling up of proven interventions across all relevant sectors and all districts of Ghana.”
GNA
AD