The Jaman North District Assembly in collaboration with the District Health Directorate has officially launched the Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) Programme at the Morle Durbar Grounds on Wednesday, 10th June 2026, marking a major step toward improving access to quality and preventive healthcare services for residents in the District.

The programme formed part of the national rollout of the Government of Ghana’s flagship Free Primary Healthcare Policy introduced under the leadership of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama. The initiative seeks to strengthen healthcare delivery through preventive care, community-based health services and improved access to essential health interventions at the primary healthcare level.

The event brought together approximately five hundred participants including the District Chief Executive for Jaman North District, Hon. George Adane, the District Health Director, representatives from the Regional Health Directorate and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Heads of Departments, traditional authorities from the Suma and Kwatwoma Traditional Areas, health professionals, security personnel and members of the Morle Community.

Addressing participants during the event, the District Health Director provided a historical background of Free Primary Health Care and explained that the concept dates back to 1978 but had not been fully implemented as intended. He noted that the current administration has renewed efforts to make the vision a reality.

He clarified that the Free Primary Health Care Programme does not imply that all hospital services become free but rather focuses on making selected primary healthcare services more accessible to citizens through preventive care, screening, early detection and timely interventions.

Touching on public discourse surrounding healthcare delivery, the District Health Director cautioned against politicising health-related matters and remarked that, “there are two things that we don’t do politics with; Football and Health Care.”

He further acknowledged the lobbying efforts of the District Chief Executive, Hon. George Adane, and the Member of Parliament, Hon. Ahenkwah Frederick Yaw, indicating that although the programme is being introduced in only one hundred and fifty selected districts across the country, Jaman North was fortunate to be included.

The Director also highlighted some of the services under the programme and announced plans for health kiosks in selected communities where residents can access basic health screening and related services.

A representative from the Regional Health Directorate also addressed the gathering and encouraged residents to embrace the programme and actively participate in preventive healthcare activities.

Delivering his remarks, Hon. George Adane reiterated the importance of the initiative and called on residents to support and patronise the programme irrespective of political affiliation. He emphasised that healthcare remains a collective responsibility and encouraged community members to make use of the opportunities created under the policy.

Before the official launch, participants were given the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification. Community members raised concerns regarding access procedures and possible charges associated with services under the programme. These concerns were addressed comprehensively by the District Health Director to the satisfaction of participants.

The Free Primary Health Care Programme was subsequently officially launched by the District Chief Executive, the District Health Director, representatives of the Regional Health Directorate and traditional authorities present at the ceremony.

In his closing remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Nana Kwabena Kwarfo III, Chief of Morle, expressed appreciation to H.E. President John Dramani Mahama for introducing the initiative and commended both the Member of Parliament and the District Chief Executive for selecting Morle as host community for such an important event.

He assured the Assembly that the community remains available to support future development initiatives and acknowledged the collaborative relationship between the District Chief Executive and traditional authorities in promoting programmes that improve the welfare of the people.

As a sign of appreciation and in accordance with local custom, Nana Kwabena Kwarfo III presented a ram to the District Chief Executive in recognition of his leadership and commitment to the development of the District.

The launch concluded successfully with renewed public awareness and understanding of the Free Primary Health Care Programme and its expected contribution toward strengthening healthcare delivery and improving community wellbeing in Jaman North District.

Report by JNDA MIS Unit

Pictures by Augustine Achina-Head of MIS Unit