On July 22, 2025, Ghana’s Parliament approved the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill, 2025, known as the Mahama Cares Fund, under a certificate of urgency.
The legislation aims to establish a dedicated funding mechanism to support public healthcare services.
The bill sparked intense debate on the floor, with critics questioning the transparency of fund management and accountability measures.
Some opposition members also pointed out procedural concerns, noting that the rush to pass the bill left insufficient time for detailed scrutiny.
Supporters, including government members, defended the expedited process. They argued that Ghana’s current healthcare financing which largely depends on the National Health Insurance Scheme and donor aid has left facilities vulnerable.
A medical trust fund, they say, would provide a more stable and predictable revenue stream, especially amidst rising healthcare demand.
The trust fund, once implemented, will collect contributions from public funds and other sources and disburse them to underfunded facilities nationwide.
Proponents assert this will improve readiness, access, and quality of essential healthcare across Ghana.
However, critics insist that passing the bill under urgency undermined proper oversight and open debate.
They are now calling for the establishment of robust auditing mechanisms, clear governance structures, and citizen oversight to prevent misuse.
Parliament is expected to finalize the legislative details in the coming weeks.
President Nana Akufo-Addo is widely anticipated to sign it into law before the end of July. Supporters view this as a landmark move toward stronger national healthcare funding.
