Ghana has taken a decisive step to strengthen its fight against Tuberculosis (TB) by deploying advanced diagnostic equipment to health facilities nationwide, focusing on early detection and treatment in underserved areas.
As part of the 2026 World TB Day activities, Grace Ayensu-Danquah officially handed over 10 AI-powered digital X-ray machines and 15 GeneXpert devices to the Ghana Health Service in Accra. Valued at approximately GH¢30 million, the equipment is part of the government’s ongoing Free Primary Healthcare programme.
The AI-enabled X-ray systems will allow faster TB screening, particularly in facilities lacking radiology specialists, while the GeneXpert machines will provide rapid molecular testing for TB, including drug-resistant strains. Complementary supplies, such as TB-LAM kits and testing cartridges, will be distributed to ensure uninterrupted diagnostic services.
Prof. Ayensu-Danquah, also the MP for Essikado-Ketan, noted that delayed diagnosis has been a major barrier in controlling TB, with thousands of cases remaining undetected each year. “This intervention is a game-changer. It bridges the detection gap, accelerates treatment, and ultimately saves lives,” she said.
Samuel Kaba Akoriyea urged healthcare workers to use the tools to intensify case-finding and improve patient outcomes, while Chief Austin Arinze Obeifuna praised Ghana’s leadership and called for sustainable domestic investment to complement international support from partners like the Global Fund and UNICEF.
Authorities highlight that Ghana continues to record an estimated 44,000 new TB cases annually, underscoring the importance of modern diagnostics and timely treatment. The initiative aligns with the 2026 World TB Day theme: “Yes! We Can End TB! Led By Countries. Powered By People,” emphasizing national ownership and community involvement in the fight against the disease.
The deployment of these tools marks a critical shift from policy pledges to actionable interventions, particularly in rural and high-burden areas, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to ending TB as a public health threat.
