Building Capacity for the Provision of Children’s Palliative Care in Ghana

A learning paper has been published about the landmark partnership project between ICPCN and World Child Cancer, funded through the UK Department of Health and Social Care managed by Global Health Partnerships.

The paper draws on the evaluation carried out by Prof Lydia Aziato – University of Health and Allied Services, Eric Tornu – University of Ghana and Dr Eve Namisango – African Palliative Care Association.

The paper shows how the project has significantly improved access to children’s palliative care in Ghana, reaching over 12,500 children and families in just one year—more than double its original target.

The #ChilPalCareGhana project, led by the International Children’s Palliative Care Network (ICPCN) and World Child Cancer (WCC), focused on building capacity within Ghana’s health system. Through a combination of face-to-face training, webinars, clinical placements and mentorship, 127 health professionals were trained across all 12 regions, resulting in the formation of 53 new multi-professional children’s palliative care teams and services in 58 new health facilities.

The project also established a thriving Community of Practice, connecting over 530 professionals in Ghana and the UK to support continuous learning and service development.

As one nurse reflected, “I can say this has made me a better nurse, a better version of myself … every platform I stand, or even if I appear to give care, I believe that I am more confident, I stand tall among my peers.”

The project adapted swiftly and effectively to challenges such as funding constraints and visa delays. Strong partnerships were forged with Ghanaian teaching hospitals, health colleges, the Ministry of Health, and international partners including Stanford University and St. Jude Global.

Widely seen as a model for similar low-resource settings, the project has laid strong foundations for the long-term expansion and sustainability of paediatric palliative care in Ghana.

Find out more about the project and read the full Learning Paper here: icpcn.org/chilpalcareghana/