Critical commodities stuck at port, CSOs warn of family planning crisis

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have raised concerns over delays in clearing family planning commodities at Ghana's port of entry. The commodities are worth $500,000. The CSOs warn of a family planning crisis.

The commodities, procured by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and consigned to the Ministry of Health, have reportedly been held since August 2024, posing a risk of nationwide stock-outs. Ms. Henritta Kaakyire Ataah, Advocacy and Youth Coordinator at Marie Stopes Ghana, told a press conference in Accra that the delay was leading to declining stock levels at national and regional medical stores. She said, "These are not just supplies sitting idle; they are lifesaving commodities," noting that the stock includes pills, implants, injectables, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and essential instruments for their administration. The CSOs said family planning services were critical to Ghana's healthcare system, with implications for maternal health, economic development and human rights. Abortion‑related complications account for 20.8% of pregnancy‑related deaths in Ghana. Some shipments valued at over 1.6 million US dollars had been released following earlier engagements, but three consignments remain uncleared. Reduced donor funding following the withdrawal of USAID support in 2025 is a concern.

The CSOs outlined demands, including clearance of the commodities, a public statement from the Ministry of Health, and a contingency plan to prevent stock‑outs. They also called for a review of administrative classifications affecting health imports and increased domestic financing for family planning. The CSOs pledged to monitor and publicly report on the government's response.