Accra, Mar. 11, GNA – The Atebubumanhene, Ohempon Dr Yeboah Asiamah, has held discussions with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to explore collaboration to expand healthcare access in the Atebubu Traditional Area.
The engagement formed part of efforts by the traditional authority to mobilise institutional support for development priorities and improve social services in the area.
Ohempon Dr Asiamah held the discussions with Dr Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, in Accra.
The Paramount Chief commended the leadership of the Authority for progress made in strengthening healthcare access nationwide, noting that national health insurance coverage had increased from about 56 per cent to approximately 66 per cent within a year.
He said the development demonstrated strong institutional commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of citizens and promoting equitable healthcare delivery.
“Expanding access to healthcare remains a fundamental development priority, and we recognise the critical role the NHIA continues to play in safeguarding the health of Ghanaians,” he stated.
Ohempon Dr Asiamah highlighted the role of traditional authorities in mobilising communities to support national development initiatives.
He said chiefs and traditional councils possessed strong grassroots influence that could help expand national health programmes.
The Paramount Chief expressed the readiness of the Atebubu Traditional Council to partner the NHIA to organise community outreach and mass registration campaigns, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and the poor.
He said the proposal aligned with the Seven Pillars of Atebubu’s Development Agenda, which prioritised health, sanitation and sustainable water supply.
Ohempon Dr Asiamah also sought clarification on the Authority’s broader strategy for expanding national health insurance coverage beyond the current 66 per cent, especially in rural and underserved communities.
He proposed community-wide registration campaigns in collaboration with the Atebubu Traditional Council to improve access for households that faced challenges enrolling onto the scheme.
The Paramount Chief also encouraged the Authority to explore ways of strengthening its operational capacity in the Atebubu-Amantin Municipality to enhance service delivery.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Atebubu Traditional Council to work closely with the NHIA to expand health coverage in the area.
“We are committed to working closely with NHIA to improve health coverage in Atebubu. Across Ghana, if we strengthen collaboration between the Authority and traditional leadership, we can significantly expand access and improve health outcomes for our people,” he said.
Dr Bampoe welcomed the proposal and commended the Paramount Chief for his leadership in promoting healthcare access.
He said the Authority was ready to collaborate with the Atebubu Traditional Council to organise community-wide registration drives, particularly during festivals and major community gatherings.
Dr Bampoe said such initiatives would increase public awareness of the National Health Insurance Scheme and boost enrolment among vulnerable populations.
The Atebubumanhene was accompanied by Nana Kwabena Kyere III, Adontenhene; Nana Boakye Yiadom, Kyeame; Nana Owusu Aduomi, Anantahene; Nana Fosua Sikafutro, Nsumankwaahemaa; Nana Abrafi Sarfowaah, Akokoakurotihemaa; Joycelyn Akuamoah Boateng, Atebubu Royal; and Mr Raphael Kofi Gapson, NDC Bono East Regional Treasurer, as well as other royal aides.
The NHIA delegation included Dr Senanu Kwesi Djokoto, Deputy Chief Executive for Operations, and directors of research, operations and administration, as well as other officials of the Authority.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
11 March 2026
Pictures attached