Health Ministry and IAEA Partner to Establish Radiotherapy Centre

The Ministry of Health and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have discussed plans to establish a radiotherapy and nuclear medicine centre in Tamale to expand access to cancer treatment in Northern Ghana.

During the meeting, both parties reasserted their commitment to deepening collaboration in nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, and capacity building under the IAEA’s technical cooperation programme.

The Minister for Health, Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, noted that the project was timely, as cancer patients from the northern regions often travel long distances to Kumasi and Accra for radiotherapy services.

“It is heartbreaking that many have to journey across regions, or even to neighbouring countries, for treatment. Establishing this facility in Tamale will bring hope and relief to thousands of patients,” he said.

He added that the Ministry was yet to receive a bankable document for the proposed radiotherapy project and will work tirelessly to secure the necessary support for its implementation.

On his part, the Deputy Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mr Hua Liu, commended Ghana’s longstanding partnership with the IAEA and highlighted the country’s leadership role in nuclear medicine education and training through the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences.

He noted that Ghana’s progress in radiological science demonstrates the value of sustained technical cooperation, adding that the IAEA remains committed to helping Ghana strengthen its radiotherapy infrastructure and human resource base.

Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD