Civil society organisations (CSOs) are calling on the government to urgently clear a consignment of essential family planning commodities currently stuck at the Tema Port, warning that further delays could lead to a nationwide shortage of contraceptives.
The shipment, valued at approximately $500,000, was procured by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on behalf of the Ministry of Health Ghana but has remained uncleared since August 2024.
At a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, April 8, Advocacy and Youth Coordinator at Marie Stopes International, Henrietta Kaakyire Ataah, warned that the delay is already affecting the availability of contraceptives across the country.
She noted that national and regional medical stores are running low on supplies, increasing the risk for women and girls who depend on these services.
According to her, the consignment includes essential reproductive health commodities such as contraceptive pills, implants, injectables, and condoms—critical tools in preventing unintended pregnancies and reducing unsafe abortions.
“There is over $500,000 worth of family planning commodities stuck at the Tema Port since August 2024. These are life-saving supplies for women and girls of reproductive age, and the delay is denying them access to reproductive choices while increasing the risk of teenage pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and unsafe abortions,” she stated.
Ms. Ataah further appealed to the government, particularly the Ministries of Health and Finance, to intervene urgently and facilitate the release of the supplies to avert a potential public health crisis.
“We are urging and pleading with the government, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Finance to expedite the clearance of these commodities,” she added.
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