The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has dismissed as “false and misleading” social media claims suggesting that tricycles procured under the government’s Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) programme are being used as ambulances.
In a press release dated April 18, 2026, and signed by its Director-General, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Service clarified that the tricycles were never intended for emergency medical transport.
“The Service wishes to state that these claims are false and misleading categorically. These FPHC tricycles are not ambulances and have not been procured to be used as such,” the statement said.
According to the GHS, the tricycles form part of a broader strategy under the FPHC policy to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved communities. The vehicles are being deployed alongside motorbikes to support frontline health workers in delivering essential services at the community level.
The statement explained that the tricycles are equipped with cargo compartments to carry medical supplies, vaccines, diagnostic tools, and health education materials for outreach programmes and home visits.
“This innovation reduces logistical challenges and significantly improves efficiency and service coverage at the community level,” the Service noted.
It added that the tricycles offer greater stability and safety in difficult terrains and are more suitable for a wider range of health workers, including community health nurses operating in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
The GHS urged the public to disregard misinformation about the initiative, stressing that the intervention is aimed at strengthening last-mile healthcare delivery and expanding access to quality primary healthcare services across the country.
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