Ghana launches WHO-UNDP AI-powered digital health program to strengthen healthcare systems

GHANA—Ghana has launched a joint artificial intelligence health programme, led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This project, funded by the Government of Japan through the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS), aims to strengthen digital health systems and improve health outcomes.

The initiative, implemented with the Ministry of Health in Ghana, arrives at a time when countries are increasingly adopting digital technologies to address complex health challenges such as climate-sensitive diseases and unequal access to care.

It also seeks to advance Ghana’s digital health transformation by embedding artificial intelligence into health systems in an ethical, inclusive, and people-centred manner.

Funding and International Partnership

Speaking at the launch, the WHO Representative to Ghana emphasized the importance of building a secure digital health ecosystem that strengthens governance, safeguards health data, and supports a trained workforce for people-centred care.

The programme is funded by Japan through UNTFHS and reinforces collaboration between WHO and UNDP to support sustainable health system innovation.

Core Priorities of the Programme

Key focus areas include strengthening AI governance, improving data privacy and security, and expanding digital literacy among healthcare workers and communities.

In addition, the programme will deploy AI-enabled early warning systems for climate-sensitive diseases, integrated into national platforms such as DHIS2, while encouraging responsible private-sector engagement.

Government and Partner Remarks

UNDP Resident Representative Niloy Bernejee noted that digital innovation is central to building resilient and sustainable development systems across sectors.

He added that strengthening health systems through responsible innovation can enhance stability, resilience, and long-term development outcomes.

Japan’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Hiroshi Yoshimoto, said the initiative reflects a shared commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development and improved health systems.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said artificial intelligence will help improve equity, efficiency, and resilience in Ghana’s healthcare system.

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, highlighted AI’s role in shaping future economies and governance structures.

He further noted Ghana’s National AI Strategy as a key framework guiding responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr Belinda Nimako said AI integration presents opportunities to enhance equity, efficiency, and resilience across healthcare delivery.

The launch event was attended by the UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, and members of the national planning committee.

Human Security and Digital Health Focus

The programme places people at the centre of digital transformation, ensuring that AI-driven tools strengthen service delivery and promote equitable access to healthcare services.

It also aligns with the human security approach, prioritizing protection from risks such as data breaches and climate-related health threats while expanding access to inclusive digital health solutions.

The programme further strengthens collaboration between WHO UNDP and Ghanaian institutions to accelerate ethical AI adoption in public health systems across Ghana.