Ghana Uncaps NHIL and GETFund, Unlocking GH¢4.1 Billion for Health and Education

A New Dawn for Health and Education Financing in Ghana

In a bold fiscal maneuver that has drawn applause from civil society, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) in the 2025 national budget. This decision, which will channel an additional GH¢4.1 billion into healthcare and education, is being heralded as a transformative step toward addressing long-standing funding gaps in two of Ghana’s most critical sectors. STAR Ghana Foundation, a prominent civil society organization, has lauded the move, describing it as a pivotal moment for health financing and social equity in the country.

For years, Ghana’s healthcare system has grappled with chronic underfunding, a reality that has left public hospitals strained, private healthcare providers under-resourced, and ambitious initiatives like free primary healthcare struggling to gain traction. By uncapping the NHIL, the government has effectively removed a ceiling that previously restricted the full allocation of funds collected under the levy. This shift is expected to inject much-needed resources into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), ensuring that funds earmarked for healthcare are no longer diverted to other uses.

The implications of this policy change extend far beyond the public health sector. Private hospitals, which often serve as the backbone of healthcare delivery in underserved communities, stand to benefit from increased funding. Additionally, free primary healthcare initiatives—programs designed to ensure that basic medical services are accessible to all Ghanaians—could finally receive the financial backing they need to operate sustainably. In a country where healthcare access is often determined by geography and income, these developments could mark a turning point in the fight for health equity.

The uncapping of the GETFund, meanwhile, signals a renewed commitment to education, particularly for marginalized groups. The additional funds will bolster the Free Senior High School (SHS) program, a flagship initiative that has already expanded access to secondary education for thousands of Ghanaian students. Moreover, the budgetary provision for free tertiary education for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) underscores the government’s recognition of education as a tool for social inclusion. By removing financial barriers for some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens, this policy could help bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity.

While the financial windfall is promising, STAR Ghana Foundation has emphasized the need for vigilance and accountability to ensure these funds translate into tangible improvements. To this end, the organization is developing a manifesto tracker, a tool designed to monitor the government’s commitments in the health sector. By providing a transparent mechanism for tracking progress, the tracker aims to empower civil society and citizens alike to hold policymakers accountable.

This focus on accountability was a central theme at a recent national convening organized by STAR Ghana Foundation. The event brought together civil society organizations, health professionals, and policymakers to discuss strategies for leveraging public engagement and evidence-based advocacy. Participants underscored the importance of sustained monitoring and research in ensuring that budgetary commitments do not remain mere promises.

The uncapping of the NHIL and GETFund also raises broader questions about the role of civil society in shaping public policy. Over the years, organizations like STAR Ghana Foundation have played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advocating for systemic reforms. Their efforts have not only highlighted gaps in service delivery but have also pushed for solutions grounded in data and lived experiences.

However, the road ahead is far from straightforward. Ghana’s healthcare and education sectors face deep-seated challenges that cannot be resolved through funding alone. Structural inefficiencies, workforce shortages, and disparities in service delivery are just a few of the issues that require urgent attention. Moreover, the success of these initiatives will depend on the government’s ability to manage funds transparently and allocate resources effectively.

The uncapping of these levies also comes at a time when Ghana is navigating a complex economic landscape. With rising inflation and a growing national debt, the government’s ability to sustain these financial commitments will undoubtedly be tested. Yet, this moment offers a rare opportunity to realign national priorities and invest in the well-being of future generations.

In many ways, the Finance Minister’s decision serves as a reminder of the transformative power of fiscal policy. By directing resources to sectors that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens, the government has signaled a shift toward a more inclusive approach to development. The challenge now lies in ensuring that this vision is realized, not just in policy documents but in the everyday lives of Ghanaians.

As the country embarks on this new chapter, the role of civil society will be more critical than ever. Organizations like STAR Ghana Foundation will need to continue their work of monitoring, advocating, and engaging with policymakers to ensure that these budgetary commitments lead to meaningful change. For Ghanaians, the uncapping of the NHIL and GETFund offers a glimmer of hope—a chance to reimagine what is possible when resources are aligned with the needs of the people. Whether this promise is fulfilled will depend on the collective efforts of government, civil society, and citizens alike.