Ghana is poised to vaccinate millions of young girls against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) as part of a national cervical‑cancer prevention drive. During a high‑level meeting in Kumasi on 31 July 2025, the Ghana Health Service (GHS), World Health Organization and Ghana Education Service announced that the HPV vaccine will be added to the routine immunisation programme and provided free to girls aged 9–14. The upcoming campaign aims to inoculate around 2.2 million girls starting in September, making Ghana one of more than 140 countries to introduce the vaccine nationwide.
Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer‑related deaths among Ghanaian women, with over 2,800 new cases recorded annually. Low awareness, limited access to screening and high costs have hindered prevention efforts. Ghana first piloted the HPV vaccine in 2013 in three regions; after 12 years, officials say the country is prepared to extend the programme nationwide.
WHO representative Dr Fiona Braka applauded Ghana’s decision, describing it as a crucial step toward eliminating cervical cancer. Dr Fred Adomako Boateng, Ashanti Regional Director of the GHS, noted that collaboration with schools will help reach eligible girls and ensure high coverage. Dr Williams Amankrah Appiah Kubi of the Ghana Education Service added that the GES will work to demystify the vaccine and encourage acceptance. Public health officials emphasise that vaccinating girls before sexual debut is essential for maximum protection.
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